Positioning:
The 1993 Mazda RX-7 (FD generation) was a halo sports car renowned for its advanced rotary engine technology and exceptional handling, competing with cars like the Nissan 300ZX, Toyota Supra, and Mitsubishi 3000GT.
Competitors:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (JZA70/JZA80), Mitsubishi 3000GT (Z16A), Porsche 944/968
Distinctive Features:
Twin-sequential turbocharged rotary engine, lightweight chassis, advanced aerodynamics, sophisticated suspension, iconic styling.
Cost Savings:
Enables owners to perform substantial repairs and maintenance themselves, saving hundreds or thousands in labor costs.
Diy Focus:
Designed to empower owners to confidently tackle repairs previously thought to require professional expertise.
Powertrain:
Rotary Engine (13B-REW), Ignition, Fuel System, Emissions Control, Cooling, Lubrication, Clutch, Manual Transmission (Type R154/Mazda equivalent), Driveshaft, Differential, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering (Power Rack & Pinion), Brakes (Front & Rear Discs, ABS), Wheels, Tires
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass, Trim, Seats, HVAC System, Climate Control, Audio System
Electrical:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Sensors, Wiring Diagrams (Full), Lighting, Instrumentation, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)
Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Air Filter Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Flush, Transmission Fluid Change, Differential Fluid Change, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Engine Repair:
Engine Rebuild (Apex Seals, Rotor Housing Inspection/Repair), Turbocharger Service, Intercooler Service, Intake/Exhaust System Repair, Fuel Injector Service, Ignition System Diagnostics
Transmission Repair:
Manual Transmission Disassembly/Reassembly, Clutch Replacement, Differential Service
Brakes And Suspension:
Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, ABS System Diagnostics, Suspension Component Replacement (Bushings, Shocks, Springs), Steering System Repair
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults, Component testing, Wiring repair, ECU diagnostics
Troubleshooting:
Detailed diagnostic charts and troubleshooting trees for common and uncommon faults across all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive - from basic routine maintenance to complete component overhaul and rebuilding, including diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Illustrations:
Detailed illustrations and diagrams
Instructions:
Step-by-step repair instructions
Specifications List:
Includes all necessary technical specifications: tightening torques, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, performance data.
Engine Type:
Twin-sequential turbocharged rotary
Displacement:
1.3 L (654cc x 2 rotors)
Horsepower Est:
255 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque Est:
217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Twin Turbochargers
Rotary Specifics:
Apex seals, side seals, corner seals, rotor housings, eccentric shaft, oil metering system.
Recommended Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for exact specifications and preferred brands like Castrol, Mobil 1, or specific rotary oils)
Spark Plugs:
Specific platinum or iridium tipped plugs (e.g., NGK PFR7B or similar, consult manual for exact part numbers).
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (Mazda R-series or close equivalent)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (less common for performance models)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, multi-plate clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (e.g., Red Line, Amsoil, or Mazda gear oil)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF M-III or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)
Length:
Approx. 4,280 mm (168.5 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,750 mm (68.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,230 mm (48.4 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,250 - 1,300 kg (2,756 - 2,866 lbs) depending on trim
Crash Test Results:
As a 1990s sports car, formal crash test ratings comparable to modern standards are limited. Focus was on structural integrity and occupant protection for the era.
Braking:
Four-wheel disc brakes, optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard, optional passenger airbag
Restraint System:
Seat belts, reinforced body structure.
Audio System:
Factory premium audio system (e.g., Bose or Clarion), typically with cassette player and AM/FM radio. Some models may have optional CD players.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available, providing enhanced braking control.
Diagnostic Ports:
OBD-I diagnostic port for engine code retrieval (specific to Mazda protocols of the era).
ECU:
Electronic Control Unit (ECU) managing fuel injection, ignition timing, and turbocharger control. The manual covers ECU diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, whichever comes first. Rotary engines are oil-hungry and benefit from frequent changes.
Spark Plug Interval:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles depending on plug type and driving conditions.
Timing Belt Equivalent:
Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use chain or gear-driven components. Refer to manual for specific inspection and maintenance intervals for these components and apex seals.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific Mazda coolant recommendations.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for exact specification and compatibility).
Rotary Engine Wear:
Apex seal wear is a common concern. Symptoms include loss of compression, hard starting, and rough idle. Regular oil changes and proper engine warm-up/cool-down are crucial.
Sequential Turbo Failure:
Failure of the primary or secondary turbocharger, or associated solenoids and wastegates, can impact performance. Proper maintenance and avoiding prolonged idling with hot turbos help.
Emissions System:
Early models can have issues with the Air Pump system and catalytic converters. The manual provides troubleshooting for these.
Vacuum Leaks:
Multiple vacuum hoses are present; leaks can cause rough running and performance issues. The manual details troubleshooting and replacement.
Ignition System:
Ignition coils and leading/trailing spark plugs require specific maintenance. Poor ignition performance significantly affects rotary engines.
Rotary Legacy:
Mazda's long history with the Wankel rotary engine, starting with the Cosmo and continuing through the RX series (RX-2, RX-3, RX-7 SA/FB, RX-7 FC, RX-7 FD).
Fd Generation:
The FD3S generation, introduced in 1992 (for the 1993 model year), represented a significant redesign with a focus on weight reduction, aerodynamics, and advanced rotary technology. It is widely considered the pinnacle of the RX-7 lineage.
Production Years:
1992-2002 (for the FD generation)
Key Trims:
Base, Type R, Type RZ, Type II (depending on market)
Motor Trend Import Car Of The Year:
While the FD RX-7 did not win MotorTrend's Car of the Year award in 1993, it was critically acclaimed and often featured in 'best sports car' lists of its era.
Automotive Press:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, unique engine, and styling. Often cited as one of the greatest Japanese sports cars.