Vehicle Segment:
Compact Sports Car / Grand Tourer
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers, performance car owners, those seeking a unique driving experience
Key Competitors:
Nissan 350Z, Subaru WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Honda S2000, Porsche Cayman (depending on market and price point)
Unique Selling Proposition:
Naturally aspirated rotary engine (Renesis), 50/50 weight distribution, balanced handling, distinctive 'suicide' rear doors (Freestyle Doors)
Manual Benefit:
Empowers owners and technicians with in-depth knowledge for effective maintenance, repair, and restoration, saving time and money.
Covered Years:
2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
Page Count Estimate:
Extensive (specific count not provided, but described as 'very detailed' and covering 'everything')
Manual Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinRAR
Operating System Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Engine Systems:
Rotary (Renesis) engine diagnostics, repair, rebuild, maintenance, troubleshooting
Powertrain Systems:
Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (including ABS and DSC), wheels, tires
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, diagnostics, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, ECUs
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, climate control, safety restraint systems (airbags)
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, ignition coil replacement, lubrication
Repair Procedures:
Complete engine rebuild, transmission repair, brake system overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Fault code diagnosis, component testing, performance troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (covers professional technician level, but accessible to DIYers); includes detailed sub-steps, notes, cautions, warnings
Illustrative Content:
Detailed illustrations, drawings, photos, enlarged inset views for parts identification
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Wankel)
Engine Name:
Renesis (13B-MSP)
Engine Displacement:
1.3L (2 x 654cc rotor chambers)
Rotor Design:
Side exhaust port design (as opposed to peripheral ports in earlier rotary engines)
Horsepower Early Models:
Approximately 210-212 hp (157-158 kW) at 8,000-8,500 rpm
Horsepower Late Models:
Approximately 232 hp (173 kW) at 8,200 rpm (with advanced suspension and handling package)
Torque Early Models:
Approximately 159 lb-ft (216 Nm) at 5,500 rpm
Torque Late Models:
Approximately 159 lb-ft (216 Nm) at 5,500 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (S-EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended)
Cooling Method:
Water-cooled, forced circulation
Standard Transmission:
6-speed Manual Transmission (RX-8 GT, R3 trims)
Optional Transmission:
6-speed Automatic Transmission with Sequential Manual Shifting (SMS) mode (RX-8 Sport trim)
Manual Transmission Design:
Compact and lightweight design, known for its precise feel.
Automatic Transmission Features:
Includes paddle shifters or console shifter for manual control.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, single dry plate
Length:
Approximately 174.6 inches (4,435 mm)
Width:
Approximately 69.7 inches (1,770 mm)
Height:
Approximately 54.1 inches (1,375 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 106.4 inches (2,700 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2,900 - 3,050 lbs (1,315 - 1,383 kg), depending on trim and transmission
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
5-Star (driver and passenger)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for many model years)
Traction Control System:
TCS (Traction Control System)
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
Airbags:
Front, side, and side-curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Audio System:
Available premium audio systems (e.g., Bose) with CD player, AM/FM radio, and auxiliary input.
Navigation System:
Optional DVD-based or hard-drive-based navigation system available on some trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Bluetooth:
Available on later models for hands-free calling.
Tachometer:
Prominent central tachometer with a high redline (typically around 9,000 rpm).
Digital Display:
Multi-information display in the instrument cluster.
Oil Change Interval Rotary:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, due to the nature of rotary lubrication and oil consumption.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type (standard or long-life).
Ignition Coil Replacement:
Often recommended as a set, with failure noted around 60,000-100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 (check specific manual for exact viscosity and specifications)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (FL22) or equivalent long-life OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 75W-90 (check specific manual for exact specifications and capacity)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda Genuine ATF-FZ or equivalent DEXRON-III/VI compatible fluid (check specific manual for exact specifications and capacity)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Apex Seal Wear:
Premature wear of apex seals is a potential concern, often linked to poor maintenance, carbon buildup, or detonation.
Ignition System:
Ignition coils are a common failure point, leading to misfires and rough running.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines consume oil by design; maintaining proper oil levels is critical.
Catalytic Converter:
Can be susceptible to damage from rich fuel mixtures or engine misfires.
Rotary Engine History:
Mazda has a long history with rotary engines, dating back to the Cosmo and RX-7 series.
Rx7 Predecessor:
The RX-8 succeeded the RX-7 (FD generation).
Design Philosophy:
Focused on driver engagement, balanced chassis, and a unique powertrain.
Production Period:
2003-2012
Manufacturing Location:
Mazda's Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
