🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Year:

1980

Chassis Code:

SA22C

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1980 Mazda RX-7 (SA22C) was a groundbreaking sports car, pioneering the affordable rotary-engine sports car segment. It competed against established players like the Datsun Z-cars and Toyota Celica.

Competitors:

Datsun 280Z, Toyota Celica GT, Porsche 924 (though more premium).

Distinguishing Features:

Rotary engine's smooth operation and unique character, lightweight chassis, balanced handling, distinct styling.

Value:

Provides DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics with the exact procedures and specifications used by dealerships, enabling efficient and accurate maintenance and repair.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1980 Mazda RX-7 (SA22C)

Type:

Factory Service/Repair/Workshop Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Rotary Engine (12A) disassembly, assembly, overhaul, timing, seals, lubrication

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil cooler, oil filter, oil pan, oil passages

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, coolant passages, hoses, heater core

Fuel System:

Carburetor (likely Hitachi or Nikki), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel tank, lines, emissions control

Emission Control:

Air injection system, EGR valve, PCV system, catalytic converter (if applicable for market), evaporative emission control

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system (distributor, coils, spark plugs), starting system, charging system (alternator), ECU, wiring diagrams

Transmission:

Automatic Transaxle (likely 3-speed), service, overhaul, fluid specifications

Drivetrain:

Front and Rear Axles, driveshaft, differential, CV joints (if applicable), wheel bearings

Steering System:

Steering gear, steering column, linkage, power steering system (if equipped), components

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, master cylinder, brake booster, lines, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake

Traction Control:

Likely not applicable for this model year, but manual may include related components if present.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel specifications, tire fitment, lug nut torque, rotation

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, sway bar, bushings, alignment specifications

Suspension Rear:

Live axle, trailing arms, Watt's linkage (likely), Panhard rod (likely), shock absorbers, springs, alignment specifications

Body:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, glass, seals, corrosion protection

Body Electrical:

Lighting (headlights, taillights, turn signals), wipers, washers, horn, door locks, power windows (if equipped), dashboard instruments, interior lighting

HVAC:

Heating system, ventilation, air conditioning system (if equipped), blower motor, controls, refrigerant (if applicable)

Technical Data:

Specifications, torque values, tolerances, fluid capacities, engine data, performance figures

Special Tools:

List of Mazda-specific tools required for certain repairs

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting common issues, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic charts

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems

Rebuilds:

Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement

Adjustments:

Carburetor adjustment, ignition timing, brake adjustment, clutch adjustment (if manual transmission covered)

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed exploded views and diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Print Quality:

Printable. High-resolution scans suitable for printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Mazda Wankel Rotary

Engine Code:

12A

Displacement:

1146 cc (two rotor, 573 cc per rotor)

Configuration:

Two-Rotor Wankel

Horsepower:

Approx. 100-110 hp (varies by market and emissions equipment)

Torque:

Approx. 105-115 lb-ft

Carburetion:

Single Downdraft Two-Barrel Carburetor (e.g., Hitachi DCV-221 or Nikki 5000 series)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition Type:

Distributor, Ignition Coil, Spark Plugs

Oil Type Capacity:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 10W-30 or 10W-40) and capacity (approx. 5 quarts with filter).

Coolant Type Capacity:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant. Capacity approx. 7-8 quarts.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Manual or 3-Speed Automatic Transaxle

Transmission Options:

3-Speed Automatic Transaxle

Transaxle Layout:

Integrated Transmission and Differential

Automatic Transaxle Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent (confirm with manual)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 Gear Oil 75W-90 (confirm with manual)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

95.4 inches (2423 mm)

Length:

166.7 inches (4234 mm)

Width:

65.0 inches (1651 mm)

Height:

50.2 inches (1275 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2300-2500 lbs (1043-1134 kg), depending on transmission and equipment.

Standard Wheel Size:

13x5.5 inches or 14x5.5 inches

Standard Tire Size:

185/70R13 or 195/70R14

Bolt Pattern:

4x110 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited data available for this era. Focus was on active safety (handling).

Handling Dynamics:

Excellent weight distribution, low center of gravity, responsive steering contribute to active safety.

Seatbelts:

Lap and shoulder belts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio, optional cassette player. Basic analog controls.

Driver Aids:

No electronic driver assistance systems like ABS or traction control. Focus is on driver engagement.

Connectivity Features:

N/A

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for exact spec).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Check or replace as per manual recommendations, often around 30,000 miles. Note specific rotary spark plug types.

Timing Belt Replacement:

N/A (Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use a chain or gear system for rotor timing).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (confirm with manual)

Coolant Type:

50/50 mix of Ethylene Glycol antifreeze and distilled water

Apex Seals:

Wear and failure of apex seals is a common long-term issue for rotary engines, leading to compression loss. Regular oil changes and proper warm-up/cool-down are crucial.

Carburetor Issues:

Carburetors can become clogged or require adjustment over time, affecting fuel mixture and performance.

Cooling System Leaks:

Aging hoses and gaskets can lead to coolant leaks. Overheating can be detrimental to apex seals.

Rust And Corrosion:

As with many cars from this era, rust can be an issue, particularly in wheel wells, rocker panels, and around the windows.

Ignition System Maintenance:

Distributor cap, rotor, and spark plug wires require periodic inspection and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Pioneering:

Mazda's commitment to the rotary engine, first introduced in the Cosmo, was cemented with the RX-7, offering a unique alternative to piston engines.

First Generation Introduction:

Launched in 1978 (as a 1979 model in some markets), the SA22C RX-7 was designed as a budget-friendly, sporty coupe.

Production Period:

1978-1985 (First Generation SA22C/FB)

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism Awards:

Consistently praised by automotive press for its handling, performance, and value. Named to Car and Driver's 'Ten Best' list in 1979.