🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-3SP

Production Years:

1977-1978

Chassis Codes:

S124A (Coupe), S108A (Sedan - though SP was typically coupe/GT)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda RX-3SP was a sporty variant of the RX-3, aimed at enthusiasts seeking performance and distinctive styling, particularly appealing to those interested in rotary engine technology.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with other sporty compacts and pony cars of the era, such as the Datsun 240Z/260Z, Toyota Celica GT, Ford Mustang, and Chevrolet Camaro, differentiating itself with its unique Wankel rotary engine.

Key Features:

Distinctive styling (often a coupe or hatchback), powerful and smooth rotary engine, sporty suspension tuning, SP badging denoting performance enhancements.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered Overview:

Comprehensive service and repair for all major vehicle systems, including engine, drivetrain, chassis, electrical, and body.

Page Count:

Estimated 500-700 pages (typical for a complete factory service manual of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Printed (original) or Digital (PDF - common for reproduction)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Rotary engine (12A), lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery (carburetion), ignition, emissions control, engine disassembly/assembly, troubleshooting.

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission (likely 4 or 5-speed), clutch operation, removal/installation, internal component service, troubleshooting.

Drivetrain Systems:

Rear axle, driveshaft, U-joints, wheel bearings, differential service.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering gear, power steering system (if equipped), wheel alignment specifications.

Brake Systems:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, component replacement.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, ignition system, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, fuse/relay identification, diagnostic procedures.

Body Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, bumpers, chassis lubrication, frame specifications.

Emissions Control:

Air pump system, EGR valve, catalytic converter (if applicable), emission control component testing and adjustment.

Fuel System Details:

Detailed information on the Hitachi/Nikki carburetor, fuel pump, fuel lines, and related components, including adjustments and overhaul.

Cooling System Details:

Covers radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and fan operation. Rotary engines have specific cooling requirements due to their design.

Lubrication System Details:

Explains oil pump, oil pan, oil filter, and the crucial oil injection system or pre-mix requirements for apex seal lubrication.

Electrical System Details:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component identification, testing procedures for alternator, starter, ignition coil, etc.

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, ignition timing adjustment, carburetor adjustment, fluid checks and changes.

Troubleshooting Procedures:

Systematic diagnostic steps for common problems, including no-start conditions, engine performance issues, electrical faults, and braking problems.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, overhaul, and reinstallation for all major vehicle systems.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Methods for identifying faults, including visual inspections, measurement of electrical components, and performance testing.

Torque Specifications:

Provides precise torque values for all critical fasteners, essential for engine, transmission, and chassis work.

Engine Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed instructions for disassembling, inspecting, and reassembling the 12A rotary engine, including apex seal installation and housing lapping (if applicable).

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications and clearances.

Diagnostic Charts:

Includes detailed diagnostic charts and flowcharts for troubleshooting electrical and mechanical issues.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

If digital, typically PDF with searchable text and clear imagery.

Print Quality:

Originals would have factory print quality; digital reproductions should aim for high resolution for diagrams and text legibility.

Binding Type:

Originals were often perfect bound or spiral bound for lay-flat usability. Digital copies are not applicable.

Paper Type:

Originals used durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments. Digital copies are not applicable.

Completeness:

This is a comprehensive service and repair manual covering all aspects necessary for maintenance and repair. It is not a condensed or owner's manual.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Mazda 12A Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Configuration:

Two-rotor, naturally aspirated

Displacement:

1146 cc (69.9 cu in) - This is the effective displacement for the 12A rotary.

Horsepower:

Approx. 100-110 hp (depending on specific market and emissions equipment)

Torque:

Approx. 105-115 lb-ft (depending on specific market and emissions equipment)

Carburetor Type:

Hitachi or Nikki two-barrel downdraft carburetor (e.g., DCH-280 or similar)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane or higher)

Ignition System:

Distributor-based, points or electronic ignition (depending on specific build date/market)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed manual transmission (most common)

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual transmission (available on some variants, including SP models), 3-speed automatic transmission (less common for SP)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Coupe, Hardtop Coupe, Sedan (SP designation most commonly associated with Coupe/Hardtop)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 97.0 inches (2464 mm)

Length:

Approx. 165.4 inches (4200 mm)

Width:

Approx. 64.6 inches (1640 mm)

Height:

Approx. 51.6 inches (1310 mm) for Coupe

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2100 - 2300 lbs (950 - 1040 kg), depending on body style and equipment

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

No specific government safety ratings (NHTSA/IIHS) available for this era of vehicle.

Active Features:

Standard front disc brakes, rear drum brakes.

Passive Features:

Lap belts, padded dashboard, collapsible steering column (basic passive safety features of the time).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player. Focus on driving experience rather than advanced electronics.

Driver Assistance Features:

None in the modern sense. Features were limited to basic vehicle operation.

Connectivity Features:

No electronic connectivity features.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first. Rotary engines require specific oil type and are sensitive to oil level.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Check at 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Rotary engines use two spark plugs per rotor. Specific plugs like NGK DP8EA-9 or equivalent.

Ignition Timing Adjustment:

Check and adjust at 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as per symptom diagnosis. Specific timing marks vary, typically around 5-10 degrees BTDC.

Engine Oil:

API SF or SG classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40. Rotary engines also require pre-mix oil in fuel (or separate oil injection system) for apex seal lubrication. Consult manual for specific pre-mix ratio or oil injection system requirements.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity approx. 5-6 quarts (4.7-5.7 L).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Capacity approx. 2.5 pints (1.2 L).

Rear Axle Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 gear oil. Capacity approx. 1.1 quarts (1.0 L).

Known Issues:

Apex seal wear (leading to low compression), oil seal degradation, overheating due to cooling system inefficiency, carburetor tuning challenges, rust on body panels and chassis.

Rotary Specific Maintenance:

Regular use of quality pre-mix or ensuring the oil injection system is functioning correctly is critical for apex seal longevity. Carbon buildup in exhaust ports can occur.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda's commitment to innovative engineering, particularly the development and refinement of the Wankel rotary engine, is a cornerstone of its automotive history.

Model Evolution:

The RX-3 (Savanna in Japan) was introduced in 1971 as a successor to the R100. The RX-3SP was a performance-oriented trim level, often featuring upgraded engine components, suspension, and styling elements, building on the RX-3's sporty reputation.

Production Period:

RX-3: 1971-1978. RX-3SP specifically targeted the later years of this generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While the RX-3SP itself may not have specific awards, the RX-3 series, and especially Mazda's rotary technology, gained significant recognition in motorsports and enthusiast communities for its unique performance characteristics.