Market Segment:
Sports car, rotary-powered icon
Key Competitors Era:
Toyota Supra, Nissan 300ZX, Mitsubishi 3000GT, Porsche 944
Unique Selling Proposition:
Renowned for its lightweight chassis, exceptional handling, and the unique, high-revving twin-rotor Wankel engine.
Design Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai ('horse and rider as one') driving experience, driver-focused cockpit, aerodynamic styling.
Engine:
Rotary (13B-REW twin-turbocharged)
Fuel System:
Fuel injection, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, timing
Cooling System:
Radiator, fans, coolant flow, thermostat
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil cooler, lubrication passages
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, emissions control
Transmission:
Manual (Type R154 or equivalent) and Automatic Transmission (if applicable to these years)
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms
Steering System:
Power steering pump, rack and pinion, steering column
Braking System:
Front and rear brakes, ABS, brake fluid, lines, master cylinder
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, wiring
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning system components and operation
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, structural components, doors, windows, interior trim
Body Electrical:
Power windows, locks, mirrors, alarm system
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Repair:
Component removal, installation, adjustments, rebuilding procedures
Overhaul:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, component refurbishment
Diagnostics:
Fault finding, component testing, diagnostic tool usage
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagram interpretation, circuit testing, component diagnostics
Specifications And Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Mazda-specific or recommended tools
Depth Level:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Aspiration:
Twin-turbocharged, sequential turbo system
Displacement Cc:
1308 cc (2x 654 cc rotors)
Horsepower Ps Rpm:
255 PS @ 6500 rpm (initial spec for 1992-1993 models)
Torque Lb Ft Rpm:
217 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (initial spec for 1992-1993 models)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type Recommendation:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)
Oil Type Recommendation:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-30 or 20W-50 depending on climate and usage), API classification SJ or higher.
Oil Capacity Liters:
Approximately 4.5 - 5.0 liters (including oil cooler and filter).
Coolant Capacity Liters:
Approximately 8.0 - 8.5 liters (with heater core).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (often referred to as the Type R154 or similar Mazda equivalent).
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (less common for performance enthusiasts).
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil viscosity and specification (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5 compatible, SAE 75W-90 or similar).
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to manual for specific ATF type (e.g., Dexron III or equivalent).
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate.
Oil Change Interval Km Months:
Refer to manual; typically every 5,000 km or 6 months, or more frequently with hard driving.
Spark Plug Replacement Km:
Refer to manual; critical for rotary engine health. Typically around 20,000 - 30,000 km.
Timing Belt Replacement Km:
Not applicable (rotary engines do not have timing belts, they have chain-driven oil pumps and sometimes ancillary belts).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 compatible brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II or III, or specific Mazda power steering fluid.
Apex Seals:
Wear or failure of apex seals can lead to loss of compression and engine failure. Regular compression testing is vital.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines consume oil by design for lubrication. Excessive consumption or smoking indicates potential issues.
Sequential Turbo System Failures:
Issues with the solenoids, actuators, or control systems of the sequential turbochargers can affect performance.
Pre-Catalyst Issues:
The two small pre-catalytic converters can clog, impacting performance and potentially damaging the engine if not maintained.
Cooling System Maintenance:
Overheating is detrimental to rotary engines. Regular inspection and flushing of the cooling system are crucial.