Segment:
Sports Car, Grand Tourer
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY Mechanics, Professional Technicians
Key Rivals:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (MkIII), Mitsubishi Starion/Chrysler Conquest
Distinctive Powertrain:
Rotary Engine (13B-T) known for its smooth power delivery and unique sound
Handling Dynamics:
Renowned for excellent handling, balanced chassis, and independent rear suspension
Value Proposition:
Comprehensive, authoritative resource for maintaining and repairing the FC RX-7
Diagnostic Aid:
Essential for diagnosing and resolving common and complex issues specific to the rotary engine and chassis
Powertrain Engine:
Rotary (13B-T, 13B-FC Turbo II)
Powertrain Transmission:
Manual (M5, M5X) and Automatic Transmissions
Chassis Suspension:
Front and Rear Suspension, Steering System
Chassis Brakes:
Brake System (including ABS on applicable models)
Electrical System:
Full Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, ECUs
Body And Trim:
Body Panels, Doors, Interior Trim, Seating
Heating And Cooling:
HVAC System, Climate Control
Fuel System:
Fuel Injection, Fuel Pump, Lines, Tank
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Hoses, Thermostat
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Manifolds, Catalytic Converter, Mufflers
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug/Apex Seal Checks, Fluid Top-offs
Engine Overhaul:
Complete Engine Rebuild Procedures for Rotary Engine
Transmission Repair:
Transmission Removal, Disassembly, Reassembly, and Installation
Brake Service:
Brake Pad Replacement, Rotor Machining/Replacement, Caliper Service, ABS Bleeding
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Faults, Component Testing, Wiring Harness Repair
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Component Replacement (Shocks, Struts, Bushings, Tie Rods), Alignment Specifications
Body And Trim Repair:
Panel Alignment, Door Hinge/Latch Adjustment, Interior Component Replacement
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Systematic Fault Finding, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and Solutions
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced Diagnostics, Component Level Troubleshooting
Repair Scope:
Comprehensive Rebuilds, Component Replacements, Adjustments
Technical Illustrations:
Detailed Diagrams, Exploded Views, Torque Specifications
Specification Data:
Exact Tolerances, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Part Numbers
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Engine Code:
13B-T (Turbocharged)
Displacement:
1.3 Liters (equivalent to approx. 2.6L reciprocating)
Horsepower:
Approx. 200 hp (US Spec Turbo II)
Torque:
Approx. 203 lb-ft (US Spec Turbo II)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Direct Ignition (Igniter/Coil)
Cooling Type:
Liquid Cooled
Body Style:
2-door Coupe, Convertible
Wheelbase:
Approx. 95.4 inches (2423 mm)
Overall Length:
Approx. 167.7 inches (4257 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 49.2 inches (1250 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2900-3200 lbs (1315-1451 kg) depending on trim and options
Crash Test Results:
NHTSA and IIHS data for this era may be limited, but generally considered a safe vehicle for its time.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on many models, particularly Turbo II
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) available on some later models
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard on most models within this range; Passenger airbag became more common later in the generation.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and structural bracing for convertible models
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, using high-quality synthetic oil is recommended for rotary engines.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or annually
Spark Plug Inspection:
Inspect every 15,000 miles. Rotary-specific spark plugs are critical.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, viscosity typically 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for exact recommendation). High-quality synthetic is strongly advised.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mazda FL22 or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity 75W-90 or 80W-90 (consult manual for specific grade)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III/Mercon or equivalent ATF
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 gear oil, viscosity 80W-90
Rotary Engine Apex Seals:
Wear of apex seals can lead to loss of compression, hard starting, and decreased power. Regular maintenance and proper operating temperatures are crucial.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines naturally consume some oil for lubrication. Ensuring proper oil levels is vital.
Turbocharger Reliability:
Early turbochargers could be susceptible to heat soak and failure if not properly maintained.
E-Shaft Bearing Wear:
Potential wear on the eccentric shaft bearings, especially on high-mileage or poorly maintained engines.
Cooling System Overheating:
Proper coolant levels and radiator condition are essential to prevent overheating.
Mazda Rotary Legacy:
Continuation of Mazda's pioneering work with the Wankel rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo Sport.
Generation Context:
The FC generation (1986-1991) was the second iteration of the RX-7, evolving from the FB (SA/FB) model. It featured a more modern, sleek design and significant chassis improvements.
Mk1 Vs Mk2 Fc:
The FC moved away from the initial lightweight sports car ethos to a more capable, powerful, and refined grand touring sports car, especially with the Turbo II variant.
Manufacturing Location:
Mazda's Hofu Plant, Japan
Production End Year:
1991 for the FC generation, succeeded by the FD RX-7
Car And Driver 10Best:
The RX-7, in various generations, was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list, highlighting its performance and handling prowess.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While specific FC awards may vary, the RX-7 line has consistently been recognized for its engineering and performance.