Vehicle Class:
Lightweight Sports Car (Roadster)
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, owners seeking in-depth repair knowledge
Key Competitors:
Honda S2000 (later models), Porsche Boxster (later models), Triumph TR6 (historical context)
Unique Selling Proposition:
Affordable, fun-to-drive, reliable rear-wheel-drive convertible with a strong enthusiast following
Manual Advantage:
Provides official, manufacturer-backed repair procedures and specifications for accurate maintenance and repairs.
Software Benefit:
Instant access, searchable content, and ease of navigation compared to traditional printed manuals.
Information Source:
Essential for preserving vehicle value, ensuring optimal performance, and performing DIY repairs efficiently.
Engine:
1.8L DOHC I4 (BP-ZE)
Fuel System:
Fuel Injection (EFI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)
Cooling System:
Radiator, Fan, Thermostat, Hoses
Exhaust System:
Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Pipes
Transmission:
5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain:
Rear Wheel Drive (RWD)
Suspension Front:
Double Wishbone
Suspension Rear:
Multi-link Independent
Steering:
Rack and Pinion, Power Assisted
Brakes Front:
Ventilated Disc
Electrical System:
12V Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Lighting
Body Electrical:
Wipers, Washers, Horn, Power Windows, Door Locks
Body And Chassis:
Frame, Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk
HVAC:
Air Conditioning, Heater, Defroster
Safety Systems:
Seat Belts, Airbags (Driver side only)
Interior:
Seats, Dashboard, Trim
Paint And Trim:
Exterior Paint Codes, Interior Trim Options
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Diagnostics
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Caliper Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement
Installation:
Component Installation, Accessory Installation
Diagnostics:
Engine Performance Diagnostics, Electrical System Testing
Calibration:
Wheel Alignment, Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) Calibration
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Fluid Capacities
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Tools:
Includes guidance on using OBD-I diagnostic tools and procedures
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems
Special Tools:
Lists and descriptions of special tools required for specific repairs
Software Type:
Proprietary software package with searchable interface
File Size:
Varies (digital download)
Compatibility:
Compatible with Windows operating systems (specific versions may apply)
Printability:
Printable sections or full manual (user dependent)
Binding Style:
N/A (digital software)
Paper Quality:
N/A (digital software)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16 Valves
Displacement:
1839 cc (1.8 Liters)
Horsepower:
128 hp @ 6500 rpm (US Spec)
Torque:
110 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (US Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Port Injection
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded Octane 87 or higher
Fuel Tank Capacity:
12.7 US gallons (48 Liters)
Ignition Timing:
Electronically Controlled (refer to manual for specific settings)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 5.6 US quarts (5.3 Liters) with heater
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 US quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter change
Transmission Type Std:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Opt:
4-Speed Automatic
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, Dry Single Plate
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mazda GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil (or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
NHTSA Driver Frontal Impact:
4-star
NHTSA Passenger Frontal Impact:
4-star
ABS:
Optional on some models
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seat belts
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and roll bar
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles
Coolant Flush:
Every 24 months or 30,000 miles
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical for engine longevity)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 (API SG or higher)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II (or equivalent)
Common Problem 1:
Oil cooler seal leaks
Common Problem 2:
Mixture control solenoid failure (causing rough idle/stalling)
Common Problem 3:
Radiator hose degradation
Common Problem 4:
Window regulator mechanism wear
Common Problem 5:
Rust in rocker panels and rear fenders
Mazda Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai - 'Horse and Rider as One'
Generation:
First Generation (NA)
Design Inspiration:
Classic British sports cars (e.g., Lotus Elan, MG Midget)
Production Years:
1989-1997
Manufacturing Plant:
Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan