Market Position:
Compact subcompact car, positioned as an affordable and practical personal vehicle.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other subcompacts of the era such as the Ford Fiesta, Nissan Micra (March), Toyota Starlet, and Volkswagen Polo. Known for its fuel efficiency and maneuverability.
Key Features:
Compact dimensions, fuel-efficient engines, simple mechanicals, affordable ownership, and practical interior space for its class.
Systems Covered:
General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle.
Procedures Included:
Step-by-step repair procedures, diagnostic guidance, maintenance tasks, component replacement, system adjustments, troubleshooting common issues, rebuilding procedures.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuilds, as used by factory-trained technicians.
Primary Engine:
1.1L (1138cc) B1, B1A, B1B Inline-4 SOHC (EGI/Carbureted depending on market/trim)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 54-63 hp (market dependent).
Torque Range:
Approximately 80-88 Nm (market dependent).
Fuel System:
Electronic Gasoline Injection (EGI) or Carbureted (depending on market and specific engine variant).
Engine Codes:
B1, B1A, B1B
Length:
Approximately 3,725 mm (146.7 in) (may vary slightly by body style).
Width:
Approximately 1,575 mm (62.0 in).
Height:
Approximately 1,340 mm (52.8 in).
Curb Weight:
Approximately 750-800 kg (1,650-1,760 lb).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2,345 mm (92.3 in).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for exact specifications).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended replacement every 80,000 - 100,000 km (50,000 - 60,000 miles) or 5-7 years (critical due to interference engine design on some variants).
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (consult manual for exact viscosity and specifications).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for specific requirement).
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (consult manual for exact specification).
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent (consult manual for exact specification).
Known Issues:
Rust and corrosion (particularly on body panels, wheel arches, and undercarriage), aging rubber hoses and seals, potential ignition system issues (coil, distributor, spark plug wires), carburetor wear or clogging (on non-EGI models), clutch wear, early electronic component failures (rare but possible).
Oil Filter Example:
Example: Fram PH3569, Wix 51334, Mahle OC11
Air Filter Example:
Example: Fram CA2963, Wix 42154, Mahle LX432
Fuel Filter Example:
Example: Fram G3, Wix 33064
Brand Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and driver-focused vehicles, often with innovative engineering for their class. The 121 represents Mazda's entry into the global subcompact segment.
Model Evolution:
The first-generation Mazda 121 (DA1) was introduced in 1987. It was a front-wheel-drive hatchback designed to be economical and practical. It underwent minor facelifts during its production run.
Production Period:
1987-1991 (for the DA1 generation).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
