Segment:
Sports car, Grand Tourer
Reputation:
Iconic rotary-powered sports car, known for performance, handling, and distinctive styling.
Competitors 1995:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4, Porsche 968.
Engine Type:
Sequential twin-turbocharged 13B-REW rotary engine.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD).
Chassis:
Lightweight construction, advanced suspension geometry, near 50/50 weight distribution.
Design:
Sleek aerodynamic coupe body, pop-up headlights (early FD models), distinctive styling.
Engine:
Rotary (13B-REW), fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control, twin-turbo system, apex seals, rotor housing diagnostics.
Transmission:
Manual (R154), clutch system, gearbox overhaul, driveline components.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), hydraulic system, parking brake.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (double wishbone), rear independent suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion, steering column, tie rods, alignment.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, gauges, ECU (Engine Control Unit), sensor diagnostics, body electrical components.
Bodywork:
Exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, glass, seals, corrosion prevention.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug (rotary equivalent) checks, fluid level checks and changes.
Repair:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical fault finding procedures, engine performance issues.
Diagnostics:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics) codes, sensor data interpretation, ECU flashing procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and chassis overhauls, including detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures. Prepared for professional technicians but accessible to advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Displacement:
1.3L (1308 cc) - Two 654cc rotors
Configuration:
Twin-rotor, twin-turbocharged
Horsepower:
255 hp @ 6500 rpm (USDM)
Torque:
217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (USDM)
Injection Type:
Sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Type:
Forced lubrication with oil cooler
Apex Seals:
Critical component, requires proper lubrication and operating temperatures. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Compression Testing:
Specific rotary compression testing procedures and specifications outlined in the manual.
Type:
5-speed manual transmission
Model:
Mazda R154 (modified or similar)
Type:
None for the 1995 model year.
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil viscosity (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5, 75W-90 often recommended).
Length:
168.1 inches (4270 mm)
Width:
69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
47.0 inches (1195 mm)
Wheelbase:
95.5 inches (2425 mm)
Front Track:
57.7 inches (1465 mm)
Rear Track:
58.1 inches (1475 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2800-3000 lbs (1270-1360 kg), depending on trim.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle placard, typically around 3500 lbs.
Trunk Volume:
Limited, typically around 4.8 cu ft (135 L).
Standard Wheel Size:
16 x 7.0 front, 16 x 8.0 rear (optional 17 inch wheels available)
Standard Tire Size:
225/50VR16 front, 245/45VR16 rear
Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3mm (5x4.5 inches)
Offset:
Refer to manual for specific offset ranges.
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific NHTSA ratings for the 1995 model are not readily available in standardized format for this era. Refer to historical automotive safety databases.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims, often integrated with ABS.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.
Chassis Design:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones designed for energy absorption.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player and CD player (optional). Speaker configurations vary by trim.
Display:
Analog gauges for speed, tachometer, fuel, coolant temperature. Digital clock.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors.
Immobilizer:
Basic anti-theft immobilizer system.
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months. Frequent oil changes are critical for rotary engines.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed. Check more frequently in dusty conditions.
Fuel Filter:
Replace every 30,000 miles or as recommended by the manual.
Spark Plugs:
Rotary engines use two sets of spark plugs per rotor. Consult manual for specific replacement intervals (e.g., every 15,000 - 30,000 miles depending on type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity and API rating. Mazda recommends specific rotary engine oils or high-quality synthetic (e.g., 10W-30 or 10W-40).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.1 US quarts (4.8 L) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Mazda FL22 or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Apex Seal Wear:
A common concern for rotary engines. Proper maintenance, oil injection system functionality, and avoiding detonation are crucial. Manual details inspection.
Prelude Turbo Failure:
Issues with the sequential turbo system (especially the primary turbo) can occur. Manual provides diagnostic procedures.
Oil Metering Pump:
Can clog or fail, leading to lubrication issues. Manual covers inspection and adjustment.
Cooling System:
Overheating can be an issue if the cooling system is not properly maintained. Check radiator, hoses, and water pump.
Mazda Sports Cars:
Mazda has a long history of producing successful sports cars, including the Cosmo, RX series (RX-2, RX-3, RX-4, RX-7), and Miata.
Rx7 Generations:
The 1995 RX-7 is part of the third generation (FD), introduced in 1992. It succeeded the FC (second generation) and the original SA/FB (first generation).
Fd Generation Design:
The FD generation was a significant departure, featuring a more aerodynamic and modern design, advanced suspension, and the sequential twin-turbo 13B-REW engine.
Production Period Fd:
1992-2002
Assembly Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
Key Market Regions:
Japan, North America, Europe, Australia.