Market Position:
Iconic Japanese sports car, celebrated for its rotary engine technology and pure driving dynamics. Positioned as a premium, performance-oriented coupe.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other high-performance sports cars of its era such as the Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (MkIV), Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4, and Porsche 968. Differentiated itself with its unique rotary powerplant and balanced chassis.
Key Features:
Twin-rotor sequential turbocharged 13B-REW engine, lightweight chassis, near 50/50 weight distribution, advanced suspension design, distinctive styling, rear-wheel drive.
Systems Covered:
Engine (Rotary), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain (Transmission, Driveshafts, Differential), Brakes (ABS, Hydraulic), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, ECUs), Climate Control, Body & Chassis, Body Control Modules (BCM), SRS (Airbag) System, Diagnostic Procedures, Torque Specifications, Lubrication, Maintenance Procedures
Procedures Included:
Engine Overhaul & Rebuild, Fuel Injection System Diagnosis & Repair, Ignition Timing & Control, Cooling System Maintenance & Repair, Exhaust System Repair, Transmission Removal & Installation, Differential Service, Brake System Bleeding & Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Rack Repair, Electrical Troubleshooting & Wiring Diagram Interpretation, Air Conditioning Servicing, Body Panel Alignment & Repair, SRS System Diagnosis, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) and Troubleshooting, Fluid Change Intervals and Specifications, Component Replacement Procedures, Torque Specifications for all fasteners
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive diagnostic routines, detailed component disassembly and reassembly instructions, specific torque values, troubleshooting flowcharts, wiring schematics, and exploded views. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Primary Engine:
13B-REW Twin-Turbo Rotary
Horsepower:
255 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque:
217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Fuel System:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine Description:
654cc x 2 rotor, 1308cc displacement equivalent. Features a sequential twin-turbocharger system for improved low-end torque and high-end power delivery. Known for its smooth operation and high revving capability.
Maintenance Considerations
Maintenance Considerations:
Requires specific rotary engine oil, regular apex seal inspection, and proper warm-up/cool-down procedures to prevent apex seal wear and apex seal groove damage. Premixing 2-stroke oil is often recommended by enthusiasts.
Safety Ratings:
NHTSA ratings vary by specific test and year, but generally considered safe for its class. ABS was standard.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Limited-slip Differential (LSD)
Passive Features:
Front airbags, crumple zones, side impact beams, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
Infotainment System:
Factory optional Bose premium audio system, cassette player, and AM/FM radio. CD player was optional or part of a package.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, ABS.
Connectivity Options:
Limited by era; typically no Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Analog systems.
Engine Management System:
ECU controlled sequential fuel injection and ignition timing, featuring twin ignition plugs per rotor for improved combustion. Uses multiple sensors including MAP, TPS, O2, and coolant temp.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first. Use of API SG or higher specification oil is recommended, though specific rotary-specific oils are preferred.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) for trailing plugs, 30,000-40,000 miles (48,000-64,000 km) for leading plugs. Use of specific platinum or iridium tipped plugs is crucial.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG/SH or higher. Rotary-specific oils are recommended for optimal seal life.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent 50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol and distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF
Known Issues:
Apex seal wear and failure (requires rebuild), vacuum hose degradation, oil seal leaks, turbocharger reliability issues (especially if poorly maintained), and catalytic converter failure.
Troubleshooting Tips:
Check for vacuum leaks diligently. Monitor oil levels rigorously. Ensure proper engine warm-up. Poor starting or rough idle can indicate apex seal or ignition issues.
Brand Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of sports car development, notably with the rotary engine, showcased in models like the Cosmo Sport and RX series. Known for its Jinba-ittai (horse and rider as one) philosophy.
Model Evolution:
The third generation (FD) RX-7, introduced in 1992 for the 1993 model year, represented a significant leap in design and technology over its predecessor. The 1994 model year received minor updates, primarily to emissions and emissions control systems, and potentially subtle refinements to suspension tuning.
Production Years:
1992-2002 (Global)
Manufacturing Location:
Mazda Hiroshima Plant, Japan
