Segment:
Sporty compact/mid-size coupe, often considered a personal luxury coupe
Competitors:
Ford Probe (platform sharing with second gen), Honda Prelude, Toyota Camry Coupe, Nissan 240SX, Mitsubishi Eclipse
Design Philosophy:
Aerodynamic styling, driver-focused cockpit, refined performance, often front-wheel drive
Differentiators:
Available all-wheel steering (AWS) in certain generations/trims, distinctive styling, Mazda's reputation for sporty driving dynamics
Model Years Covered:
1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typically 1000+ pages for a complete workshop manual)
Type:
Complete Workshop Repair Manual / Service Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emission control, engine management (ECU)
Transmission:
Manual transmission (M5), Automatic transmission (4-speed)
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differentials, AWD system (if applicable to specific trims)
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc/drum brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link suspension, steering system
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging system, ignition, instruments, accessories, power windows, locks, mirrors
Body:
Body structure, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, sunroof, bumpers
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problems and solutions, symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Diagnostics:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics) interpretation for relevant models, sensor testing, actuator testing
Installation:
Component installation and removal procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds
First Gen Engine:
2.0L KF-DE I4, 2.5L KL-ZE V6 (JDM)
Second Gen Engine:
2.5L KL-DE V6 (USDM, 164 hp @ 6000 rpm, 156 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm), 1.8L BP-ZE I4 (JDM)
Second Gen V6 0 60 Mph:
Approx. 7.5 - 8.5 seconds (depending on transmission and driver)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Emission Systems:
Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation), Secondary air injection (on some models)
First Gen Transmission:
5-speed manual
Second Gen Transmission:
5-speed manual (FS5A-EL for some variants)
First Gen Transmission Option:
4-speed automatic
Second Gen Transmission Option:
4-speed automatic (F4A-EL)
All Wheel Steering:
Optional on select trims (especially first generation, Phase II)
Wheelbase First Gen:
Approx. 100.4 inches (2550 mm)
Wheelbase Second Gen:
Approx. 104.4 inches (2650 mm)
Length Second Gen:
Approx. 183.5 inches (4660 mm)
Width Second Gen:
Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height Second Gen:
Approx. 52.0 inches (1321 mm)
Curb Weight Second Gen V6:
Approx. 3150 - 3300 lbs (1430 - 1500 kg)
Wheelbase Common:
Front: 15x6 or 16x6.5 inch wheels; Rear: 15x6 or 16x6.5 inch wheels
Bolt Pattern:
4x114.3 mm (4-lug)
Crash Test Data:
Varies by year and testing agency; generally considered to have adequate safety for its era. Consult NHTSA/IIHS archives for specific data.
ABS:
Available on higher trims, particularly with V6 engines, starting late 80s/early 90s
Aws:
Active Rear Wheel Steering (AWS) available on select models, enhancing maneuverability
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard from mid-90s, passenger airbag optional/standard on later models
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts, rear seat belts
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and roof structure
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette stereo with optional CD player, multi-speaker systems available
Climate Control:
Manual air conditioning, optional automatic climate control on higher trims
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims, especially with automatic transmissions
Original Connectivity:
Limited to factory radio and optional power accessories
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000 miles (38,000 km) or 24 months
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km); Manual: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for iridium/platinum plugs, consult manual for specific types
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific temperature recommendations)
Coolant:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III or equivalent
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Engine V6 Timing Belt:
KL-DE V6 uses a timing belt; replacement every 60,000-90,000 miles is critical to prevent catastrophic engine damage
Aws System:
AWS actuators and control units can fail, leading to loss of rear-wheel steering functionality
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and ball joints can wear out, leading to clunking noises and poor handling
Rust:
Common for vehicles of this age, especially in areas exposed to salt; check wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframes
Mazda Philosophy:
Known for 'Zoom-Zoom' driving dynamics, affordable sports cars, and innovative engineering (e.g., Wankel rotary engines)
First Gen Focus:
Penned by Shunji Tanaka, shared platform with the Ford Probe (originally developed as a Mazda Capella coupe), focused on stylish coupe design and performance
Second Gen Focus:
More aggressive styling, introduction of the powerful 2.5L V6, refinement of the interior and chassis, continued AWS availability
Production Period:
1987–1997
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (Mazda Hōfu Plant), USA (AutoAlliance International, Michigan for second generation)
