Era:
Early 1970s sports coupe/sedan, distinctive for its rotary engine.
Segment:
Compact Sporty Car / Personal Luxury Coupe
Competitors:
Datsun 240Z, Toyota Corolla Levin/Sprinter Trueno, Ford Capri (in some markets), Alfa Romeo Giulia
Engine Type:
Mazda's unique Wankel rotary engine, offering a smooth, high-revving power delivery.
Styling:
Often praised for its European-influenced styling, particularly the coupe variant.
Handling:
Lightweight construction and balanced chassis contributed to enjoyable handling characteristics.
For Buyers:
Essential reference for owners and mechanics looking to maintain, restore, or repair this classic rotary Mazda.
Primary Coverage:
Full Workshop and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams, Bodywork, Chassis, Electrical
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 500-700 (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)
Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Rotary Engine (10A), Carburetor System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System
Transmission:
4-Speed Manual Transmission, Optional 3-Speed Automatic Transmission
Drivetrain:
Rear Wheel Drive, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front: Independent Coil Spring, Rear: Leaf Spring), Steering System, Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum)
Electrical:
12V Electrical System, Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Lighting System, Gauges, Switches, Wiring Diagrams
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Glass, Seals
Engine Repair:
Engine Reassembly, Apex Seal Replacement, Rotor Housing Inspection, Oil Seals, Cooling System (Air-Cooled Rotary)
Transmission Service:
Transmission Fluid Change, Clutch Replacement, Gearbox Overhaul
Brakes Service:
Brake Pad/Shoe Replacement, Brake Fluid Flush, Caliper/Cylinder Rebuild
Suspension Steering:
Shock Absorber Replacement, Bushing Replacement, Wheel Alignment Specs, Steering Gearbox Adjustment
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Faulty Circuits, Component Testing, Fuse/Relay Identification
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil Change Intervals, Spark Plug Replacement, Filter Changes, Lubrication Points
Bodywork Repair:
Dent Repair, Rust Treatment, Panel Replacement, Glass Installation
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic tune-ups and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair.
Diagnostics:
Detailed troubleshooting guides with symptoms, causes, and corrective actions for common issues.
Specifications:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, and electrical resistance values.
Diagrams:
Detailed illustrations, exploded views, and wiring diagrams for precise identification and assembly.
Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick access to specific topics.
Printability:
Printable, enabling users to create hard copies for workshop use.
Quality:
Digital scan quality will vary based on original source. Aim for clear, legible text and diagrams.
Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Type:
Wankel Rotary (Twin Rotor)
Displacement:
993 cc (total rotating volume)
Bore Stroke Rotary:
Internal geometry rather than traditional bore/stroke; typically 105mm rotor radius with 50mm eccentric shaft throw.
Horsepower Hp:
Approx. 120-130 hp (SAE Gross) depending on market and specific tuning
Torque Lb Ft:
Approx. 118-125 lb-ft (SAE Gross) depending on market and specific tuning
Redline Rpm:
Approx. 6500-7000 RPM
Carburetion:
Hitachi Twin-Barrel Down-Draft Carburetor(s) (e.g., 2x Hitachi DCG 340)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (though leaded was common and engines might have hardened valve seats)
Type:
Air-Cooled (with integrated oil cooling)
Oil Type Spec:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 API SE/SF (consult manual for specific year/climate recommendations). Crucial to use oil suitable for rotary engines to prevent apex seal damage.
Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 5-6 quarts (including oil cooler)
Coupe Length In:
Approx. 166.5 inches (4229 mm)
Coupe Width In:
Approx. 64.2 inches (1630 mm)
Coupe Height In:
Approx. 51.2 inches (1300 mm)
Coupe Wheelbase In:
Approx. 97.2 inches (2469 mm)
Coupe Curb Weight Lbs:
Approx. 2300-2500 lbs (1043-1134 kg)
Coupe Gross Vehicle Weight Lbs:
Approx. 3100 lbs (1406 kg)
Crash Test Era:
No standardized crash testing as per modern NHTSA/Euro NCAP standards in 1970.
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes. No ABS or advanced brake assists.
Steering:
Recirculating Ball Steering. Optional power steering may have been available on some trims/markets.
Seatbelts:
Lap belts standard; shoulder belts may have been optional or standard on later production.
Crumple Zones:
Basic body structure design; no engineered crumple zones as understood today.
Oil Change Miles:
Typically every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first.
Filter Replacement Miles:
Oil filter at every oil change.
Spark Plug Type:
Specific long-reach platinum or copper plugs (e.g., NGK DP7EA-9 or equivalent). Requires 2 per rotor (4 total).
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
Check/gap at 15,000 miles, replace at 30,000 miles (or as per manual).
Coolant Type:
Water with appropriate anti-freeze (Ethylene Glycol base). Capacity approx. 3-4 quarts. No radiator cap, pressure is regulated by the engine block.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4. Capacity approx. 1 quart.
Apex Seals:
Wear and failure of apex seals is the most critical and common issue with rotary engines. Requires engine rebuild.
Carburetor Issues:
Tuning difficulties, vacuum leaks, and wear on Hitachi carburetors.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume some oil for lubrication of apex seals; excessively high consumption indicates potential seal wear.
Ignition System:
Distributor, points, and coils can require regular maintenance and tuning.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Typical: Fram PH8A, Wix 51515, or Mazda OEM (consult manual for exact fitment)
Mazda Rotary Pioneering:
Mazda's commitment to the Wankel rotary engine, which began with the Cosmo Sport.
Predecessor:
Mazda R100 (Familia Rotary)
Successor:
Mazda RX-4 (Capella Rotary)
Production Years:
1972-1978 (though manual is for 1970, implying earlier designation or very early production spec).
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Rotary Popularity:
Key model in popularizing Mazda's rotary engine in export markets, particularly North America.