Category:
Compact Subcompact Car
Target Demographic:
Budget-conscious consumers, new drivers, urban dwellers
Key Competitors Era:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla (earlier generations), Ford Festiva, Nissan Pulsar (NX series)
Distinguishing Features:
Compact size, fuel efficiency, affordable pricing, often front-wheel drive
Benefit To Owner:
Enables DIY maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs, providing deep understanding of vehicle systems
Manual Authenticity:
Original Workshop Manual, same used by local service/repair shops
Coverage Scope:
All Models, Engines, Trim, and Transmission Types
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (specific number not provided, but described as comprehensive)
Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Mechanical Systems:
Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Suspension, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Differential/Drive, Axle
Electrical Systems:
Electrical System, Wiring Diagram, Engine Control System
Comfort And Safety Systems:
Heater/Air Conditioning, Restraint System
Body And Chassis:
Chassis/Body, Interior
Maintenance:
General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication, Service Intervals
Diagnostics And Repair:
Troubleshooting, Repair Procedures, Disassembly, Assembly, Cleaning, Reinstallation
Electrical Diagnostics:
Electrical System Diagnosis and Repair, Wiring Diagram Integration
Depth:
Comprehensive, Professional Technician Level, Detailed Substeps, Notes/Cautions/Warnings
Engine Code Examples:
E1 (1.1L), B3 (1.3L), SOHC/DOHC variants may exist for specific markets
Displacement Examples:
1.1L (1100cc), 1.3L (1300cc)
Cylinder Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Horsepower Range Estimated:
Approximately 55-75 hp (depending on engine variant)
Torque Range Estimated:
Approximately 65-85 lb-ft (depending on engine variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (EFI) or Carburetor (depending on market and engine variant)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Crash Test Data Availability:
Limited modern crash test data available for this era and vehicle class; focus on passive safety features of the time.
Active Safety Systems:
Basic ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) may be optional or standard on higher trims in later years. Standard power-assisted brakes.
Passive Safety Features:
Seatbelts (front and rear), potentially reinforced chassis elements, energy-absorbing steering column.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, refer to manual for specific mileage/time recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Typically 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on spark plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approximately 3.2 - 3.5 quarts (3.0 - 3.3 liters) with filter change (verify with manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85 (verify with manual).
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF) (verify with manual).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, suspension bushings, exhaust system corrosion, ignition system components (spark plugs, wires), cooling system hoses.
Electrical Issues Potential:
Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring, alternator, starter motor issues.
Mazda Legacy:
Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and affordable vehicles, with a focus on driving dynamics where applicable.
Mazda 121 Lineage:
The Mazda 121, particularly this generation, was a significant model for Mazda in the subcompact segment, often based on Ford platforms (in some markets, it was a rebadged Ford Festiva/Mazdaudian 121).
Production Period:
1987-1991 (for the DA generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan, potentially other global manufacturing facilities depending on market agreements.