🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Year:

1982

Generation:

1st Gen (SA/FB)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1982 RX-7 (SA/FB chassis) represented Mazda's second generation of its successful rotary-powered sports car, building upon the innovative Wankel engine and lightweight chassis of its predecessor. It competed against other affordable sports cars and sporty coupes of the era.

Competitors:

Key competitors included the Datsun 280ZX, Toyota Celica Supra, and to some extent, cars like the Porsche 924 and lower-spec European coupes. The RX-7's unique rotary engine offered a distinct performance characteristic.

Distinctive Features:

The primary key feature is the rotary engine, offering smooth operation and high RPM capability. The 1982 model year introduced revisions to aerodynamics and interior appointments over the earlier SA chassis. Lightweight construction contributed to its agile handling.

📋 Manual Details

Overall Coverage:

All models and all repairs A-Z for the 1982 Mazda RX-7

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 600-800 pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, printable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Rotary engine (12A), lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic), ignition, emissions control

Transmission:

4-speed manual, 5-speed manual, automatic transmission (optional)

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive, clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, rear Watt's linkage, springs, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake

Steering:

Rack and pinion steering system, power steering (optional)

Electrical:

12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, gauges, fuses, wiring diagrams

Body:

Chassis, body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, HVAC system, body seals

Emissions:

California emissions systems, federal emissions systems, catalytic converter, EGR valve, air injection

Maintenance:

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

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, testing procedures for all major systems

Repair:

Engine overhaul (rotary apex seal replacement, rotor housing inspection), transmission rebuild, brake caliper overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair

Adjustment:

Carburetor adjustment (if applicable to certain markets/emissions standards), ignition timing adjustment, brake adjustment, clutch adjustment

Installation:

Component installation, accessory installation (specific to dealer-installed options)

Depth:

Comprehensive, including detailed disassembly and reassembly procedures, torque specifications, tolerances, and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely a searchable PDF, allowing for easy navigation and keyword searches.

Print Quality:

High resolution scans suitable for printing individual pages or sections.

Binding Type:

Digital format (PDF), no physical binding.

Paper Type:

N/A (digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code:

12A

Displacement:

1146 cc (equivalent to approx. 2.2 L piston displacement for tax purposes)

Horsepower SAE Net:

Approximately 100-105 hp (depending on emissions equipment and market)

Torque SAE Net:

Approximately 105-110 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection (standard for 1982 models in most markets)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Cooling System Type:

Water-cooled rotary engine

Lubrication System Type:

Pressurized wet sump with a dedicated oil metering pump for apex seal lubrication.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed manual

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by transmission option and are detailed within the manual.

Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF) for automatic transmission; manual transmission gear oil specified in manual.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 161.8 inches (4110 mm)

Width:

Approximately 65.2 inches (1656 mm)

Height:

Approximately 49.6 inches (1260 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 95.7 inches (2430 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2350-2550 lbs (1066-1157 kg), depending on equipment

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited formal crash test data available from this era by modern standards. Emphasis on structural integrity and occupant protection for the time.

Braking System:

Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Dual-circuit hydraulic system.

Steering System:

Rack and pinion steering.

Seatbelts:

Lap and shoulder belts

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage and crumple zones designed for the era.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Typically AM/FM radio with cassette player, possibly with graphic equalizer depending on trim level. Speakers were generally 4-inch or 5-inch units.

Gauges And Displays:

Analogue gauges including tachometer, speedometer, fuel level, coolant temperature, oil pressure, and voltage. Warning lights for various systems.

Cruise Control:

Optional on some models.

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Connectivity was limited to the radio system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first. Crucial for rotary engine longevity.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) for standard plugs; platinum plugs (if applicable) may have longer intervals. Specifics depend on plug type and usage.

Coolant Flush:

Every 24,000 miles (38,000 km) or 2 years.

Engine Oil Type:

API SF/SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Special rotary engine oils or additives may be considered for apex seal lubrication enhancement, as detailed in the manual.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Apex Seals:

Wear of apex seals is a common concern with rotary engines. Symptoms include loss of compression, rough idle, and increased oil consumption. This manual provides detailed procedures for inspection and replacement.

Thermal Reactor System:

Early RX-7s utilized a thermal reactor system for emissions control, which could be prone to failure or clogging. The manual covers its maintenance and troubleshooting.

Oil Metering Pump:

The OMP is critical for apex seal lubrication. Failure or malfunction can lead to premature seal wear. The manual details its operation and testing.

Vacuum Lines:

Aging rubber vacuum lines can crack and leak, causing idle and performance issues. The manual provides vacuum line routing diagrams.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary History:

Mazda's long-standing commitment to the rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo Sport and RX-2, established their reputation for engineering innovation and unique performance.

First Gen Rx7 Evolution:

The first generation (SA, 1978-1980) was redesigned for 1981 to become the FB chassis. The 1982 model year saw further refinements in aerodynamics, interior design, and the introduction of fuel injection as standard on many models, replacing carburetors for improved emissions and drivability.

Production Years:

First Generation RX-7 produced from 1978 to 1985 (SA chassis: 1978-1980, FB chassis: 1981-1985).

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism Awards:

While specific awards for the 1982 model year are difficult to pinpoint without extensive archival research, the RX-7 series as a whole consistently received praise for its handling, innovative rotary engine, and value proposition from automotive publications throughout its production run.