Category:
Compact Car / Small Family Car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, young drivers, small families
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Volkswagen Golf
Design Philosophy:
Practical, reliable, fuel-efficient, driver-oriented ergonomics
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, 4-door sedan, 5-door station wagon
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carburetor and early fuel injection), emission control systems, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (5-speed) and automatic transmission (4-speed) repair, overhaul, diagnosis, clutch system, driveline, CV joints.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped on specific trims).
Suspension Steering:
Front MacPherson struts, rear independent suspension (often trailing arms), power steering system, steering rack, wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting system, ignition system, starting system, charging system (alternator, battery), instrumentation, power windows, central locking, audio system.
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, windows, sunroof (if applicable), chassis components, rust prevention and repair.
Heating Air Conditioning:
HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling (R12 era), blower motor, controls, components.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, fuel filter replacement, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical circuit tracing.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for major components and systems, including engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement.
Diagnostics:
Specific diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, and mechanical issues, including reading trouble codes (if applicable to the era).
Depth:
Comprehensive, ranging from basic owner maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Code Example:
B6 (1.6L), E5 (1.5L), FE3 (1.8L DOHC - later models)
Engine Type:
Inline-4, SOHC, naturally aspirated
Displacement Common:
1.5L (1490cc) / 1.6L (1597cc)
Horsepower Range:
70-85 hp (approximate, depending on engine and market)
Torque Range:
80-95 lb-ft (approximate, depending on engine and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Hitachi, Keihin) or early electronic fuel injection (EFI) depending on market and trim.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Coolant Type Recommendation:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Mazda FL22 or equivalent)
Oil Type Recommendation:
API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check specific engine recommendation)
Wheelbase:
2450 mm (96.5 in) - typical for BG generation
Length:
4150 mm (163.4 in) - typical for sedan
Width:
1690 mm (66.5 in) - typical
Height:
1375 mm (54.1 in) - typical for sedan
Curb Weight Range:
950-1100 kg (2094-2425 lbs), varies by body style and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically 1400-1500 kg
Crash Test Data Availability:
Limited for this era compared to modern standards. Consult historical safety reports if available.
Brakes:
Standard front disc, rear drum. Optional ABS on some higher trims/markets.
Steering:
Rack and pinion, power assist available on higher trims.
Seat Belts:
Standard lap and shoulder belts
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and body structure for the era.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, cassette player. Optional 4-speaker or 6-speaker system.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC controls, rotary dials for temperature and fan speed.
Features Available:
Limited; primarily focused on basic automotive engineering. Power steering, power windows, and central locking were often optional or on higher trims.
Features Available:
None (vehicle era predates widespread automotive connectivity)
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months (using appropriate plugs).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years (critical for interference engines).
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 5.0-5.5 Liters (depending on engine and radiator).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid (verify with manual).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent (if equipped).
Engine Minor:
Carburetor tuning issues, vacuum leaks leading to rough idle, distributor cap and rotor wear.
Engine Major:
Timing belt failure can cause catastrophic engine damage (interference engine). Oil leaks from seals and gaskets due to age.
Electrical:
Alternator failure, voltage regulator issues, dashboard warning light malfunctions, aging wiring harness connectors.
Suspension Steering:
Worn ball joints and tie rod ends, worn strut mounts, power steering pump whine.
Chassis Body:
Rust in common areas like wheel arches, rocker panels, and undercarriage. Door lock actuator failure.
Mazda Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai ('horse and rider as one') - focus on driver engagement and handling.
Previous Generation:
FA (1980-1985)
Generation Code:
BG (1985-1992)
Key Changes For Bg:
New chassis, improved aerodynamics, larger engine options, more refined interior, introduction of station wagon variant.
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (primarily Hofu Plant)
Production Years For Model:
1985-1992 (for BG generation)
