Segment:
Sports Car, Grand Tourer
Usp:
Twin-rotor Wankel rotary engine, lightweight chassis, exceptional handling dynamics, iconic design
Direct Competitors 1998:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Porsche 911 (996)
Engine Type:
Rotary Engine
Handling Focus:
Near 50/50 weight distribution, double-wishbone suspension
Aerodynamics:
Aggressive styling with functional aerodynamic elements
Coverage Scope:
All models and all repairs A-Z for 1998 Mazda RX-7 (3rd Gen)
Estimated Page Count:
Approx. 2000-2500 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Format:
Likely printed (original dealership distribution) or high-quality PDF scan
Powertrain:
Engine (rotary), fuel system, ignition system, lubrication, cooling, exhaust, emissions control, drivetrain (transmission, differential, driveshafts)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front and rear, ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Lighting, instruments and gauges, power accessories, HVAC controls, body electrical, engine control unit (ECU), wiring diagrams
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, roof (including T-tops)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical component repair
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid types and capacities, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connector locations
Depth:
Factory-level technical depth, covering basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics. Includes detailed schematics and troubleshooting trees.
Digital Format Details:
If PDF, expect high-resolution scans, potentially searchable text if OCR processed. Original FSMs are typically multi-volume printed books.
Print Quality Details:
Originals feature high-quality printing with clear diagrams and legible text. Scanned versions aim to replicate this clarity.
Binding Type Details:
Originals typically perfect bound or spiral bound for durability and ease of use in a workshop. PDF versions are digital.
Paper Type Details:
Originals use durable, often coated paper to withstand workshop conditions and frequent use.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Configuration:
Twin-Rotor, Twin-Turbocharged
Displacement:
1.3 L (654 cc x 2)
Horsepower:
275 hp @ 6500 rpm (US Spec)
Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (US Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Cooling Type:
Liquid-Cooled
Oil Type Recommendation:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (less common, often found on non-turbo models or specific markets)
Manual Transmission Details:
Close-ratio gearbox optimized for performance driving
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., Mobil 1 75W-90 or equivalent, check manual for exact specification)
NHTSA Crash Test Results:
NHTSA data for this era may not be as comprehensive as modern standards, but the vehicle was designed with safety features for its class.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage and crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory premium audio system (e.g., Bose on some trims), often with CD player and cassette tape.
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control (optional on some trims)
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models
Traction Control:
TCS (Traction Control System) available on certain trims/markets
Diagnostic Port:
OBD-II compliant diagnostic port for engine and emissions data
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (more frequent recommended for hard driving or rotary engine specifics)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Typically 30,000 miles, but crucial to follow manual for specific plug types and procedures for rotary engines.
Timing Belt Equivalent:
Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they have drive belts for accessories. The oil pump drive is internal.
Engine Coolant:
Mazda coolant or equivalent (typically a silicate-free OAT coolant, check manual for specific type and capacity)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation)
Power Steering Fluid:
Mazda Genuine ATF or Dexron II/III equivalent
Apex Seal Wear:
A well-documented concern with all rotary engines, requiring proper maintenance and avoidance of detonation. Manual covers inspection and replacement.
Pre-Mix Oil System:
The 13B-REW uses an automatic oil injection system to lubricate apex seals. Ensuring this system functions correctly is vital; manual details its operation and potential issues.
Sequential Turbo System:
The twin-turbo system's complex plumbing and control can be a source of issues. The manual details its operation and troubleshooting.
Rotary Legacy:
Mazda's long and successful history with the Wankel rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo Sport.
Rx7 Generations:
The RX-7 line evolved through three generations: SA/FB (1978-1985), FC (1985-1992), and FD (1992-2002).
Production Period Fd:
1992-2002 (with the 1998 model year being part of the later FD series)
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
Car And Driver Ten Best:
Named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list multiple times during its production run, highlighting its engineering and performance.
Motortrend Car Of The Year:
Often cited as a benchmark sports car of its era, receiving significant critical acclaim.
