Class:
Compact Sports Car
Segment:
Affordable Sports Coupe
Key Competitors:
Datsun Z-cars (e.g., 280Z), Toyota Celica GT, Fiat X1/9
Unique Selling Proposition:
Lightweight chassis, balanced rotary engine, distinctive styling, affordable performance
Coverage Scope:
All Models & All Repairs A-Z
Dealer Specific:
Exact same manual used by dealership technicians
Estimated Pages:
Comprehensive (Specific page count not provided, but expected to be extensive for A-Z coverage)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Likely Printed (common for this era of service manuals, could be digital facsimile)
Print Quality:
High-quality reproduction of original dealer documentation
Binding Type:
Likely Perfect Bound or Spiral Bound (for ease of use)
Paper Type:
Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments
Searchable:
If digital format (PDF), likely searchable text. If original print, indexing and a good table of contents are key.
Engine:
Rotary engine (12A) disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition
Transmission:
Manual transmission (4-speed and optional 5-speed), clutch system, drivetrain
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear solid axle with Watt's linkage, steering system
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, accessories
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, seals
Emissions Control:
Components and troubleshooting related to emissions systems of the period.
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor overhaul, fuel pump testing, fuel line routing.
Maintenance:
Routine oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks, belt adjustments
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom analysis, component testing procedures
Repair:
Component replacement, adjustments, rebuilding procedures for engine, transmission, brakes, etc.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic steps for common and uncommon issues specific to the 12A rotary engine and vehicle systems
Engine Timing:
Ignition timing specifications and adjustment procedures.
Suspension Alignment:
Alignment specifications and adjustment procedures for front and rear suspension.
Depth:
Complete rebuild procedures, detailed component specifications, torque values, and clearances
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for rotor housing, eccentric shaft, seals, and lubrication systems.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component location, and troubleshooting flowcharts.
Chassis Repair:
Body repair techniques, frame straightening (if applicable), welding guidelines.
Historical Rating Comment:
NHTSA/IIHS ratings not applicable to this era in the modern sense; emphasis on passive restraint systems of the time.
Braking System:
Front Vented Disc, Rear Drum
Steering:
Rack and Pinion
Seat Belts:
Three-point front seat belts
Structure:
Integrated roll bar within windshield frame, reinforced chassis
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months (consult manual for exact specification)
Spark Plugs:
Rotary specific (e.g., two per rotor housing), interval varies based on type (platinum recommended).
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000 miles or 24 months
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (specific viscosity may vary with climate; consult manual)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Rear Axle Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil
Apex Seals:
Wear and failure of apex seals is a primary concern for high-mileage rotary engines.
Carburetor:
Tuning and maintenance of the twin-choke carburetor can be complex.
Rust:
Common for vehicles of this era, particularly in areas exposed to road salt.
Cooling System:
Rotary engines run hotter; ensuring proper coolant flow and radiator condition is crucial.
Manufacturer Origin:
Japan
Rotary Pioneering:
Mazda's long-standing commitment and innovation with the Wankel rotary engine.
Introduction Year:
1978 (Global), 1979 (North America)
Design Philosophy:
Lightweight, compact, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe with an emphasis on handling and driver engagement.
Production Period:
1978-1985 (1st Gen SA22C)
Manufacturing Plant:
Hofuku Plant, Hiroshima, Japan
