Positioning:
Compact sports coupe/sedan with unique rotary engine technology, targeting enthusiasts and drivers seeking distinctive performance.
Competitors:
Toyota Corolla Levin/Sprinter Trueno, Datsun 240Z (though a class above), Nissan Sunny, Mitsubishi Lancer.
Distinguishing Features:
Rotary engine, rear-wheel drive, stylish coupe and practical sedan body styles, lightweight construction.
Manual Value:
Essential resource for DIY mechanics and restorers to maintain and repair the unique Mazda rotary engine and the rest of the vehicle.
Covered Years:
1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978
Covered Regions:
Global (assuming factory service manual content)
Covered Body Styles:
All (Sedan, Coupe, potentially Wagon if applicable to RX3 series)
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 800-1200 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)
Engine Systems:
Rotary Engine (Wankel), Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel System (Carburetion), Ignition System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Clutch, Manual Transmission, Driveshafts, Rear Axle Assembly
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension (MacPherson Strut), Rear Suspension (Leaf Spring), Steering System (Recirculating Ball), Wheel Alignment Specifications
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes, Brake System Hydraulics, Parking Brake System
Electrical System:
12V Electrical System, Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Lighting System, Fuses, Wiring Diagrams, Instrumentation
Body Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Chassis Components, Corrosion Protection
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Spark Plug (Apex Seal/Gasket) Checks, Ignition Timing Adjustment, Carburetor Tuning, Cooling System Flush, Brake Fluid Flush, Lubrication Points
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts for engine performance, electrical issues, starting problems, cooling system malfunctions
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild (rotary specific), transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair/replacement
Adjustment Procedures:
Carburetor idle speed and mixture adjustment, ignition timing, clutch pedal free play, parking brake adjustment
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and drivetrain rebuilds)
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, special tool requirements, exploded views, diagnostic flowcharts
Engine Type:
Mazda Rotary (Wankel) Engine
Rotor Displacement:
573cc per rotor (total 1146cc equivalent reciprocating displacement)
Configuration:
Two-Rotor, Naturally Aspirated
Horsepower Early Models:
Approximately 90-105 hp (depending on specific market and emissions regulations)
Torque Early Models:
Approximately 100-115 lb-ft
Redline Rpm:
Around 6500-7000 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Single or Twin Carburetor (e.g., Hitachi, Mikuni, Solex)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (though early models might have been designed for leaded and require additives or valve seat modifications for unleaded)
Oil Type:
Specific Rotary Engine Oil (e.g., SAE 20W-50 or 10W-30, consult manual for exact spec). Separate oil metering pump injects oil into the combustion chamber for apex seal lubrication.
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 5-6 liters (consult manual)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2400 mm (94.5 inches)
Length:
Approximately 4050-4150 mm (159.4-163.4 inches)
Width:
Approximately 1600 mm (63 inches)
Height:
Approximately 1350-1370 mm (53.1-53.9 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 950-1100 kg (2094-2425 lbs) depending on body style and options
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x110 mm
Standard Tire Size:
155SR13 or 165/70SR13 (common sizes, consult manual for exact fitment)
Crash Test Data:
No formal crash test data from modern agencies available for this era. Design likely reflected contemporary safety standards of the early to mid-1970s.
Braking System Features:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes, Dual Circuit Hydraulic System
Restraints:
Seat belts (likely lap belts for front, lap belts for rear; shoulder belts may have been optional or standard in later years).
Chassis Design:
Unitized body construction with front and rear crumple zones (basic by modern standards).
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, optional Cassette player. Likely 2-4 speaker system.
Features:
Limited to standard automotive safety features of the era (e.g., safety glass, basic seatbelts).
Features:
N/A (No electronic connectivity features typical of modern vehicles).
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (consult manual for specific mileage based on driving conditions).
Spark Plug Inspection Replacement:
Apex seal and spark plug inspections are critical for rotary engines. Replacement intervals vary greatly based on driving style and maintenance. Manual will detail inspection procedures.
Cooling System Service:
Flush and refill coolant every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W-50 or SAE 10W-30 (API SF or SG rated, or equivalent. Crucially, a dedicated rotary oil with proper EP additives for the oil injection system might be recommended by Mazda specialist sources).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 80W-90.
Rotary Engine Specific:
Apex seal wear, rotor housing scoring, oil seal failure, carbon buildup in the intermediate housing, starting issues when hot ('hot soak'), oil consumption.
General Wear And Tear:
Carburetor tuning issues, electrical system reliability, rust on body panels (especially wheel arches and sills), suspension bushing wear.
Rotary Engine Care:
Regular oil level checks and top-offs, avoiding prolonged idling, ensuring proper engine operating temperature, occasional 'decarbonizing' procedures.
Heritage Connection:
Continuation of Mazda's pioneering efforts with the Wankel rotary engine, following the R100.
Series Development:
Evolved from the R100, offering more refined styling and increased practicality with sedan and coupe variants. Key model changes occurred through facelifts and updates during its production run.
Production Years:
1972-1978 (Model years 1970-1978 covered by the manual represent early production through later facelifts).
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
