🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Generation:

FC (Second Generation)

Model Year:

1989

Chassis Code:

FC3S

Engine Code:

13B (Rotary)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Performance Sports Coupe; the RX-7 FC generation represented Mazda's continued commitment to rotary engine technology and a driver-focused sports car experience in the late 1980s.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against iconic sports cars of the era such as the Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (MkIII), Porsche 944, and Chevrolet Camaro/Pontiac Firebird. Differentiated itself with its unique rotary engine and balanced handling.

Key Features:

Rotary Engine, Rear-Wheel Drive, Independent Suspension, Sophisticated Aerodynamics, Optional Turbocharging, Lightweight Construction, Driver-Oriented Cockpit

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Complete Service and Repair

Page Count:

Over 1000 pages (estimated for comprehensive official manual)

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (Rotary 13B Turbo), Drivetrain (Transmission, Differential, Driveshafts), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), HVAC System, Body & Chassis, Interior Components, Diagnostics & Troubleshooting, Emissions Control System

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Engine Tune-up, Component Removal & Installation, Disassembly & Reassembly, Troubleshooting Faults, Electrical Diagnosis, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Adjustments, Clutch Replacement, Turbocharger Service, Fuel Injector Testing, Cooling System Flushing, Emissions System Checks, Body Panel Repair, Interior Trim Replacement

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive; includes detailed specifications, diagnostic procedures, torque values, special tool requirements, and exploded views for most components. Suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text for printing

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Configuration:

Two-Rotor (13B)

Displacement:

1.3L (1308cc)

Horsepower:

202-215 hp (SAE Net)

Torque:

196-202 lb-ft (SAE Net)

Redline:

Approx. 7000 RPM

Fuel Delivery:

Fuel Injection (Electronic Port Injection - EGI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Forced Induction:

Turbocharged (Single Turbocharger, intercooled)

Cooling Type:

Water-Cooled

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry-Plate

Differential Type:

Viscous Coupling Limited Slip Differential (LSD) on some models/trims

📐 Dimensions

Length:

170.1 inches (4320 mm)

Width:

67.1 inches (1705 mm)

Height:

49.4 inches (1255 mm)

Wheelbase:

95.7 inches (2430 mm)

Front Track:

56.7 inches (1440 mm)

Rear Track:

56.1 inches (1425 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2860-3000 lbs (1297-1361 kg)

Weight Distribution:

Near 50/50 balance

Cargo Volume:

Minimal, typical for a sports coupe

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not rated or standard for the era

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Passive Features:

Three-point Seatbelts, Collapsible Steering Column, Reinforced Passenger Cabin

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM Stereo Cassette Player with optional CD player. Analog gauges.

Driver Assistance:

None typical for this era beyond ABS.

Connectivity:

N/A

Lighting Type:

Halogen Headlights, Incandescent Taillights and Turn Signals.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual; typically around 30,000 miles, but varies for rotary plugs.

Timing Belt Replacement:

N/A (Rotary engines do not have a timing belt; they use a timing chain/sprockets).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity under temperature variations)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with filter

Coolant Type:

Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 gear oil

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III ATF or equivalent

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5 SAE 90 gear oil (limited slip requires specific additive if not factory specified)

Known Issues:

Apex seal wear, rotor housing wear, oil metering injection issues, vacuum hose deterioration, exhaust manifold cracking (turbo models), alternator bearing failure, cooling system leaks, ECU capacitor failure.

Rotary Specific Maintenance:

Importance of regular oil changes with correct oil, use of 'easy start' or pre-mix fuel additives for cold starts, monitoring oil level and consumption closely.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of producing innovative and driver-focused vehicles, with a particular legacy in rotary engine technology pioneered by NSU.

Model Evolution:

The FC generation RX-7 (1985-1992) succeeded the SA/FB generation. It featured a more aerodynamic design, independent rear suspension, and the introduction of turbocharging for increased performance. The 1989 model year saw minor updates (S5).

Production Period:

1985-1992

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its handling, balance, and unique rotary powerplant. Recognized as a benchmark Japanese sports car of its time.

Ratings:

Often featured in 'Best of' lists for sports cars, particularly for driver engagement.

Certifications:

N/A (Emissions certifications specific to region and model year would be detailed in the manual).

📄 Performance Data

Zero To Sixty Mph:

Approximately 6.5 - 7.5 seconds (depending on transmission and driver)

Top Speed:

Approximately 135-145 mph (217-233 km/h)

📄 Chassis Suspension

Suspension Front:

Independent, MacPherson Struts with Coil Springs and Stabilizer Bar

Suspension Rear:

Independent, Semi-Trailing Arm with Watt's Linkage, Coil Springs, and Stabilizer Bar

📄 Brakes

Front Brakes:

Ventilated Disc Brakes

Rear Brakes:

Solid Disc Brakes

Brake Actuation:

Hydraulic with ABS

📄 Wheels Tires

Wheel Size:

15x6.5 inches (standard), 16x7 inches (optional on Turbo II)

Bolt Pattern:

4x114.3mm (4x4.5 inches)

Tire Size Front:

205/60R15 (standard), 225/50R16 (optional Turbo II)

Tire Size Rear:

205/60R15 (standard), 225/50R16 (optional Turbo II)

📄 Electrical

Battery Voltage:

12V

Alternator Output:

Approx. 80-100 Amps (check manual for exact specification)

📄 Diagnostic Tools

OBD Type:

Pre-OBD-II (OBDI). Diagnostic codes accessed via flashing LED on ECU or specific diagnostic connectors. The manual will detail these procedures.

📄 Manual Addendum

Special Tools Required:

The manual will list specific tools required for rotary engine maintenance and repair, such as rotor housing alignment tools, apex seal insertion tools, and specific diagnostic equipment.