Segment:
Lightweight, rear-wheel-drive, two-seater sports car.
Value Proposition:
Affordable, fun-to-drive, reliable sports car appealing to enthusiasts.
Key Competitors Era:
Honda S2000, Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3, Toyota MR2 (later generation).
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for excellent handling, balance, and driver feedback.
Powertrain Layout:
Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration.
Convertible Top:
Standard soft-top convertible with an available optional hardtop.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine disassembly, assembly, overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, ECU diagnostics
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox, shift mechanism, repair, adjustment
Transmission Automatic:
If applicable for the model years covered, typically automatic transmission diagnosis and repair
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differentials, rear axle assembly
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shocks, springs
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering system, column, linkage
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, disc brakes, pad/rotor replacement, bleeding
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wiring diagrams
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, hinges, latches, chassis structure
Interior:
Seats, dashboard, trim, HVAC controls, convertible top mechanism
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant service
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and repair, seatbelts
Preventive Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plugs, belts
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair
Component Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system, error code interpretation, sensor testing
Adjustments:
Brake adjustments, clutch adjustments, idle speed adjustments
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission overhauls and complex diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Specifies use of standard scan tools and specialized Mazda diagnostic equipment where applicable.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all fasteners
Clearances:
Specifications for component clearances (e.g., piston ring gap, bearing clearances)
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format) - Highly probable for ease of distribution and searchability.
Searchability:
Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
Printable pages for in-garage use.
Image Resolution:
High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.
Binding:
N/A (if digital); If printed: Spiral-bound or perfect-bound for durability.
Paper Quality:
N/A (if digital); If printed: Heavy-duty, laminated pages for workshop environment.
Engine Code:
BP-Z3 (for 1.8L) and later BP-VE (for 1.8L, higher output) / NB8C (for 1.8L)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder DOHC
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1839 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 85.0 mm (typical for BP engine)
Compression Ratio:
9.0:1 or 9.6:1 (depending on market/variant)
Horsepower:
Approximately 140-145 HP @ 6500 RPM (for 1.8L models of this era)
Torque:
Approximately 119-122 lb-ft @ 5000 RPM (for 1.8L models of this era)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Recommended Octane:
91 AKI (or higher)
ECU Type:
Electronic Control Unit (ECU) with integrated diagnostics.
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (less common for enthusiasts)
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios would be detailed in the manual, typical for sporty RWD applications.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (common, but verify with manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (common, but verify with manual)
Length:
Approx. 157.3 inches (3995 mm)
Width:
Approx. 66.1 inches (1680 mm)
Height:
Approx. 48.4 inches (1230 mm) (soft top up)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 89.2 inches (2265 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.1 inches (130 mm)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 4.7 cu ft (133 L)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2315 - 2425 lbs (1050 - 1100 kg) (depending on options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically a primary spec for this class, but would be in manual.
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
4 Stars (for models with dual airbags)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (for models with side airbags, where equipped)
ABS:
Standard on most models, especially later NB variants.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, check specific vehicle.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard on most models.
Roll Bar:
Integrated into windshield frame and A-pillar structure, with hoop behind seats.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (typical, consult manual for exact specification).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (typical).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type, iridium recommended).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (typical).
Timing Belt Replacement:
This generation uses a timing chain, not a belt, requiring less frequent maintenance but still warranting inspection.
Engine Oil:
0W-20 or 5W-30 Synthetic (verify with manual for specific climate/usage).
Coolant:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify with manual).
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III ATF or Mazda ATF (verify with manual).
Oil Consumption:
Some early BP engines can exhibit increased oil consumption as they age; ring sealing issues.
Radiator Leaks:
Original plastic-tank radiators can develop leaks over time.
Suspension Bushings:
Worn suspension bushings can lead to clunks and poor handling.
Soft Top Wear:
Fabric wear, window fogging, and mechanism issues on older soft tops.
Rust:
Areas like wheel arches, sills, and chassis rails are susceptible to rust, especially in coastal or northern climates.