🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Generation Designation:

First Generation (SA/FB)

Chassis Code:

SA/FB

Model Year:

1983

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Sports Car / Personal Luxury Coupe

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional technicians.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Celica Supra, Datsun 280ZX, Porsche 924

Unique Selling Proposition:

Wankel rotary engine offering unique performance characteristics and a lightweight, agile chassis.

Value Proposition:

Provides vehicle-specific, expert-level repair and maintenance information identical to that used by dealership technicians, ensuring accurate and efficient service.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

All models and all repairs A-Z

Estimated Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (likely spiral-bound or perfect-bound)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Rotary engine (12A), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, lubrication system

Drivetrain:

Transmission (manual and automatic), driveshaft, differential, axles

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (front disc, rear drum)

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, accessories, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and related sensors

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, climate control system, body hardware

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement (rotary specific), fluid checks and changes

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (if applicable for the era), electrical system troubleshooting

Repair Rebuild:

Engine component removal and installation, transmission overhaul, brake caliper/drum service, steering rack replacement, suspension component replacement, body panel repair

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, timing specifications, emission control adjustments

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

N/A (assuming print)

Print Quality:

High (original factory print quality)

Binding:

Likely Spiral-bound or Perfect-bound for ease of use in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code:

12A

Displacement Cc:

1146 cc (two rotor)

Displacement Ci:

69.9 cu in

Induction:

Naturally Aspirated (some variants might have fuel injection, but the '83 typically used carburetion)

Horsepower Hp:

Approx. 100-105 hp (varies slightly by market and specific emissions controls)

Torque Lb Ft:

Approx. 107-110 lb-ft

Carburetor Type:

Hitachi Twin-Choke Carburetor (typical)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular Gasoline

Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for precise specification).

Oil Capacity Quarts:

Approx. 5.2 quarts (including filter)

Apex Seal Material:

The manual will detail apex seal inspection and replacement procedures, crucial for rotary longevity.

Oil Metering System:

Details on the 2-stroke oil injection system to lubricate apex seals and side seals.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

3-speed Automatic Transmission

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios for 5-speed manual will be detailed in the manual.

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil (verify with manual).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron II (or equivalent) Automatic Transmission Fluid.

📐 Dimensions

Length Inches:

Approx. 167.7 inches

Width Inches:

Approx. 65.4 inches

Height Inches:

Approx. 50.6 inches

Curb Weight Lbs:

Approx. 2350 - 2500 lbs

Wheelbase Inches:

Approx. 95.4 inches

Standard Wheel Size:

14 x 5.5 inches

Standard Tire Size:

185/70SR14

Bolt Pattern:

4x114.3 mm (4x4.5 inches)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

NHTSA ratings were not as standardized or publicly available as they are today for 1983 models. Manual will provide chassis integrity details.

Brakes Front:

Ventilated Disc

Brakes Rear:

Drum

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts, lap belts for rear passengers (if applicable).

Chassis Design:

Unibody construction with front crumple zones. Manual provides detailed body repair procedures for structural integrity.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player (optional or standard depending on trim).

Instrumentation:

Analog gauges including tachometer, speedometer, oil pressure, water temperature, voltmeter, and fuel level. The manual covers gauge cluster removal and repair.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not standard on the 1983 RX-7. The manual will detail brake system components, but not ABS.

Connectivity Features:

None (pre-internet era).

System:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) managing fuel injection (on some models), emissions control devices such as EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) and secondary air injection (if equipped). The manual details diagnosis and adjustment of these systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (verify with manual, depending on driving conditions).

Spark Plug Inspection Replacement:

Specific interval for rotary spark plugs will be detailed, crucial for performance and longevity. Typically more frequent than piston engines.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Typically every 30,000-50,000 miles for manual, potentially shorter for automatic.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity around 6.0 quarts.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil.

Apex Seal Wear:

Apex seal wear is a common concern for high-mileage rotaries; the manual provides diagnostic methods.

Carburetor Tuning:

Carburetors can require periodic adjustment and cleaning, especially for optimal performance and emissions.

Rust Corrosion:

As with many cars of this era, rust and corrosion can be issues, particularly in specific body areas. The manual covers body repair.

Wiring Harness Degradation:

Older wiring harnesses can degrade; the manual's detailed wiring diagrams are essential for troubleshooting.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Mazda is known for its innovative rotary engine technology and focus on driver engagement.

First Generation Introduction:

The first generation RX-7 (SA22C) was introduced in 1978, succeeding the Mazda Cosmo. The 1983 model falls into the later years of this generation, often referred to as the 'FB' or 'Series 2/3' updates.

1983 Updates:

Likely minor cosmetic updates or refinements over earlier models, potentially improved suspension tuning or minor interior changes. The manual will precisely document the 1983 configuration.

Production Period:

First Generation: 1978-1985

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The first-generation RX-7 was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10 Best Cars' list during its early production years, praised for its handling and value.

Motor Trend Import Car Of The Year:

While not for 1983 specifically, the RX-7 platform was recognized for its innovation and performance in the sports car segment.