🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

1200 Coupe SL

Model Code:

PB121

Body Style:

Coupe

Generation:

First Generation (FA Series)

Chassis Code Prefix:

PB121

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda 1200 Coupe SL was a compact and sporty offering in the late 1960s and early 1970s, aimed at drivers seeking affordable yet engaging performance and stylish coupe styling, often competing with models from Datsun and Toyota. The SL trim typically denoted a higher specification with enhanced features.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Datsun 510 Coupe, Toyota Corolla Coupe, and other small sporty coupes of its era. Its rear-wheel-drive platform and lightweight construction provided a good driving dynamic for its class.

Key Features:

Lightweight construction, RWD platform, compact inline-four engine, distinctive coupe styling, and the SL trim's upgraded features.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, drivetrain, chassis, suspension, brakes, steering, electrical system, body panels, interior trim, accessories, and all SL trim specific components.

Page Count:

Estimated 200-300 pages (typical for a comprehensive IPL of this era).

Manual Type:

Illustrated Parts List (IPL) / Parts Catalog

Language:

English

Format:

Printed document (as indicated by 'Parts Catalog Manual'). Potential for digital reproduction (PDF).

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical components (cylinder block, head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valves), fuel system (carburetor, fuel pump, lines), ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, clutch, transmission (gearbox, differential), propeller shaft, rear axle, front suspension (struts, control arms), rear suspension (leaf springs), steering system, front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, electrical system (wiring harnesses, lights, gauges, starter, alternator), body shell, exterior trim (bumpers, grille, trim moldings), interior trim (seats, dashboard, door panels), wheels, tires, and associated hardware. Explicitly includes SL model specific parts.

Procedures Included:

Identification of all original Mazda part numbers, detailed exploded views for visual part identification and assembly order, cross-referencing of superseded part numbers (if applicable), visual representation of sub-assemblies. Not a repair or service manual, focus is solely on part identification and sourcing.

Technical Depth:

High. Provides specific part numbers, descriptive names, and visual diagrams for every component and fastener used in the assembly of the Mazda 1200 Coupe SL. Essential for accurate parts procurement and restoration.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Print (original) / PDF (potential digital format).

Print Quality:

Typically good quality line drawings and component labels on durable paper stock for original print editions.

Binding Type:

Stapled or saddle-stitched for original print versions.

Paper Type:

Standard paper stock, often with glossy pages for diagrams.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

Mazda VC Inline-4

Engine Displacement:

1169 cc (71.3 cu in)

Engine Bore:

70.2 mm (2.76 in)

Engine Stroke:

75.0 mm (2.95 in)

Engine Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 (typical for the era)

Performance Hp:

Approximately 60-65 hp @ 5500 rpm (net)

Performance Torque:

Approximately 71-75 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (net)

Fuel System:

Single downdraft carburetor (e.g., Hitachi or Solex equivalent for the era), mechanical fuel pump.

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid-cooled system with belt-driven fan.

Ignition System:

Distributor-based ignition system with coil and spark plugs.

Engine Block Material:

Cast Iron

Engine Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed Manual

Optional Transmission:

3-speed Automatic (less common on Coupe SL)

Transmission Type:

Rear-wheel drive

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, diaphragm spring

Gear Ratios Manual:

Refer to specific IPL for exact ratios, but typical for era: 1st: ~3.1x, 2nd: ~1.8x, 3rd: ~1.3x, 4th: ~1.0x, Reverse: ~3.x

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

Approximately 3980 mm (156.7 in)

Exterior Width:

Approximately 1570 mm (61.8 in)

Exterior Height:

Approximately 1350 mm (53.1 in)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2250 mm (88.6 in)

Front Track:

Approximately 1290 mm (50.8 in)

Rear Track:

Approximately 1270 mm (50.0 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 800-850 kg (1760-1870 lbs)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approximately 38-40 Liters (10-10.5 US Gallons)

Tire Size:

Typically 6.00-13 or similar bias-ply tires.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4 x 110 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

No standardized crash test ratings available for this era and model.

Active Features:

Four-wheel drum brakes (some early models might have had front discs, SL trim could offer front discs as standard or option), hydraulic brake system, independent front suspension.

Passive Features:

Safety glass windshield, seat belts (likely lap belts as standard).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic AM radio (optional), analog gauges (speedometer, tachometer - possibly optional on lower trims, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure light).

Driver Assistance:

None (primitive safety features only).

Connectivity:

N/A

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals Oil Change:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 3-6 months.

Service Intervals Tune Up:

Points, condenser, spark plugs, and filters at 6,000-10,000 miles (10,000-16,000 km).

Service Intervals Transmission Fluid:

Check level regularly; change every 24,000-36,000 miles (40,000-60,000 km).

Service Intervals Coolant:

Flush and replace every 24,000-36,000 miles (40,000-60,000 km) or 2 years.

Fluid Specifications Engine Oil:

API SG or SF category, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (depending on climate). Consult original manual for precise spec.

Fluid Specifications Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check for specific recommendation, likely DOT 3 for this era).

Fluid Specifications Transmission Manual:

API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Fluid Specifications Transmission Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).

Fluid Specifications Rear Axle:

API GL-5 gear oil, SAE 80W-90.

Known Issues:

Rust and corrosion in body panels (wheel wells, rocker panels, floor pans), aging rubber components (hoses, bushings, seals), carburetor tuning issues, electrical system gremlins (worn wiring, faulty switches), clutch wear, and potential overheating if cooling system is neglected.

Spark Plug Part Number:

Example: NGK BP5ES or equivalent (cross-reference required for exact fitment).

Oil Filter Part Number:

Example: Fram PH7317, Wix 51085, or equivalent (cross-reference required for exact fitment).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda, founded in 1920, initially produced cork products before venturing into machinery and eventually automobiles in the 1930s. Known for its pioneering Wankel rotary engine technology, but also produced reliable piston-engine vehicles.

Model Evolution:

The Mazda 1200 (along with its sibling, the 1000) was part of Mazda's early efforts to establish itself in global markets. It succeeded the Mazda Familia 800 and was later succeeded by models like the Mazda 323. The Coupe body style offered a sportier alternative to the sedan and wagon variants.

Production Years:

1967-1973 (for the FA series Mazda 1200 family).

Production Locations:

Japan (Mazda's primary manufacturing facilities).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Mazda 1200 was generally well-received for its value and driving dynamics in its segment, but specific awards are not widely documented.