Positioning:
The Mazda RX-7 FD generation (1992-2002) represented the pinnacle of rotary sports car engineering, known for its sophisticated handling, twin-turbo rotary engine, and iconic design. This era targeted performance enthusiasts and premium sports car buyers.
Competitors:
Competed against high-performance sports cars of its era, including the Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4, Porsche 968, and Chevrolet Corvette C4.
Design:
Aerodynamic 'spirit of flow' design, lightweight construction, near 50/50 weight distribution.
Engine Technology:
Twin-sequential turbocharged 13B-REW rotary engine, intercooler system, advanced fuel injection.
Handling:
Advanced double-wishbone suspension, sophisticated chassis tuning, optional active rear-wheel steering (AWS).
Value:
Provides professional-grade diagnostic and repair information essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of the complex 13B-REW rotary engine and advanced chassis systems.
Engine:
Rotary engine (13B-REW), lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, engine management (ECU)
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Type R), clutch system, driveline components (driveshafts, differentials)
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, steering system, wheel alignment
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, power accessories, audio system, ECU diagnostics
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, convertible top (if applicable to specific models within year range)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnostics and repair, body panel repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation, wiring harness testing
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-I), ECU fault codes, sensor testing, actuator testing
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and reassembly
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed troubleshooting charts and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Configuration:
Twin-Rotor, Twin-Sequential Turbocharged
Displacement:
1.3 L (1308 cc)
Bore Stroke:
100 mm x 84 mm (per rotor housing)
Horsepower Hp:
255 hp @ 6500 rpm (early models, Japanese market)
Horsepower Hp Usdm:
255 hp @ 6500 rpm (USDM models - 1993 launch)
Torque Lb Ft:
217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (early models, Japanese market)
Torque Lb Ft Usdm:
217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (USDM models - 1993 launch)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Twin Turbochargers, Intercooler
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ Octane)
ECU Type:
ECU (Engine Control Unit) with diagnostic capabilities
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (Type R)
Type:
None (6-speed manual was standard for the FD generation)
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios detailed in the manual (e.g., 1st: 3.333, 2nd: 1.947, 3rd: 1.370, 4th: 1.000, 5th: 0.762, 6th: 0.667)
Fluid Type:
GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil (Specific viscosity and specification in manual, e.g., 75W-90)
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated, multi-plate clutch system
Length:
4295 mm (169.1 in)
Height:
1230 mm (48.4 in)
Wheelbase:
2265 mm (89.2 in)
Front Track:
1480 mm (58.3 in)
Rear Track:
1475 mm (58.1 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1250-1300 kg (2755-2866 lbs)
Gross Weight Rating:
Not typically specified for sports cars, but chassis load limits detailed in manual.
Trunk Volume:
Limited, typical of sports coupes. Specific capacity not a primary spec.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inch)
Standard Tire Size Front:
225/50R16
Standard Tire Size Rear:
225/50R16
Optional Tire Size Front:
225/45R17
Optional Tire Size Rear:
245/40R17
Crash Test Ratings:
While official NHTSA/IIHS ratings for this specific generation and year range may be limited or unavailable, the vehicle was designed with a robust safety cage, crumple zones, and advanced features for its time. Manual provides details on structural integrity and passive safety systems.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Aws:
Optional Active Rear-Wheel Steering (AWS) on certain models
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags (Standard)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Chassis Design:
Reinforced safety cell, front and rear crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory premium audio system (e.g., Bose or Clarion) with AM/FM radio, cassette player, and CD changer capability (optional).
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control on some trims, manual systems on others. Detailed HVAC system diagnosis and repair in manual.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
ECU Diagnostics:
OBD-I system with diagnostic connectors for ECU fault codes. Manual provides detailed charts for troubleshooting.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual will specify exact mileage and time intervals.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Specific interval for apex seals and spark plugs (typically around 30,000-60,000 miles) detailed in manual.
Belt Inspection:
Regular inspection of accessory belts; timing is beltless due to rotary design.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH rated synthetic or semi-synthetic oil, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30. Manual specifies exact viscosity for various temperature ranges.
Coolant Type:
Mazda-specific long-life coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with distilled water (50/50 mix).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent, or Mazda specified power steering fluid.
Engine Apex Seals:
Wear or failure of apex seals is a known concern, often exacerbated by poor maintenance or overheating. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Cooling System:
Overheating can be an issue if the cooling system is not maintained. Manual provides details on coolant capacity, flushing, and radiator inspection.
Sequential Turbo System:
The complex sequential turbo system can be prone to issues if not properly maintained. Manual covers diagnosis and repair of turbochargers and wastegates.
Emissions Controls:
Air pump and related emissions components require regular checks. Manual details their function and maintenance.
Vacuum Lines:
Aging vacuum lines can lead to boost leaks and driveability issues. Manual provides vacuum line routing diagrams for reference.
Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 5.4 US quarts (5.1 Liters) with filter change. Manual confirms exact capacity.
Heritage:
Mazda has a long history with rotary engines, dating back to the Cosmo. The RX-7 lineage is synonymous with rotary performance and motorsport success.
Generation Fd:
The FD RX-7 (1992-2002) was the third and final generation of the RX-7. It was a complete redesign, featuring a significantly more advanced chassis and the powerful 13B-REW twin-turbo rotary engine.
Japanese Release:
December 1991 (for 1992 model year)
Us Release:
1992 (for 1993 model year)
Production Start Year:
1992
Production End Year Global:
2002
Manufacturing Plant:
Mazda's Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Car And Driver Ten Best:
Mazda RX-7 FD was named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list multiple times during its production run.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While not winning, it was a significant contender and highly regarded by automotive journalists.
Performance Ratings:
Consistently praised for its exceptional handling, braking, and acceleration by automotive publications worldwide.