Significance:
The Mazda RX-2 was a pivotal model in Mazda's history, showcasing the potential of the rotary engine in a stylish and sporty package, competing with established European and American sports coupes.
Rivals:
Ford Capri, Opel GT, Datsun 240Z, Toyota Celica (later models).
Rotary Engine:
The unique Wankel rotary engine offered a smooth power delivery and distinctive sound, setting it apart from conventional piston engines.
Styling:
Sleek coupe and sedan body styles with European-inspired design.
Value Proposition:
Essential for owners and mechanics seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair the unique rotary powertrain and associated systems of the RX-2.
Years Covered:
1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978
Estimated Page Count:
~800-1200 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era, specific count not provided in product description)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Rotary engine (12A), lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (later models), ignition, exhaust.
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles.
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (leaf springs on some variants), steering system, power steering (if equipped).
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, gauges, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, common electrical faults.
Body Chassis:
Body construction, doors, hood, trunk, glass, interior trim, chassis components, rust prevention, body repair.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug (apex seal inspection), coolant flushes, lubrication points.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for engine performance, electrical issues, braking problems, and other common complaints.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Adjustments:
Carburetor tuning, ignition timing, valve clearance (if applicable to specific rotary designs), clutch adjustment.
Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics).
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using common tools and potentially specialized rotary diagnostic equipment of the era.
Engine Type:
Wankel Rotary
Displacement:
1146 cc (equivalent to ~2.3 liters in piston engine terms)
Horsepower Early:
Approximately 100-110 hp (SAE Gross, early models)
Torque Early:
Approximately 118 lb-ft (SAE Gross, early models)
Horsepower Later:
Approximately 120-130 hp (SAE Gross, later models with improved emissions and fuel systems)
Carburetor:
Twin-choke downdraft carburetor (Hitachi or Solex, specific model varies by year and market).
Fuel Injection:
Some later models or specific market variants may have featured early forms of fuel injection, though carburetor was dominant.
System Type:
Water-cooled rotary system.
System Type:
Pressurized wet sump system with oil cooler (often integrated with radiator).
System Type:
Distributor-based ignition system.
Type:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (less common)
Clutch:
Single dry-plate clutch, hydraulic actuation.
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios would be detailed within the manual.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil (typical specification, refer to manual for exact Mazda spec).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II (typical for automatic transmissions of this era).
Body Styles:
2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan
Wheelbase:
Approximately 98.4 inches (2500 mm)
Length:
Approximately 168.5 inches (4280 mm) for Coupe
Width:
Approximately 64.8 inches (1645 mm)
Height:
Approximately 52.8 inches (1340 mm) for Coupe
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2,100 - 2,400 lbs (950 - 1090 kg), depending on body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specific GVWR would be available in the manual, typically around 3,000 lbs.
Standard Front:
155SR13 or 165/70SR13 (common sizes for the era).
Standard Rear:
155SR13 or 165/70SR13
Crash Test Data:
No specific crash test ratings are readily available for this era of vehicle, as standardized testing was not as prevalent.
Braking System:
Front disc, rear drum brakes. Dual-circuit hydraulic system.
Seat Belts:
Lap belts (front occupants), lap belts (rear occupants).
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and body structure for its time.
Radio:
Optional AM/FM radio, potentially with cassette player in later models.
Gauges:
Comprehensive dashboard with tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and oil pressure gauge.
Features:
Limited to basic driver aids of the era, such as power steering (optional) and effective braking systems.
Features:
No modern connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB, etc.).
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Filter Replacement:
Oil filter at every oil change.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Apex seal inspection and potential replacement are critical and require specialized knowledge, not a standard plug replacement interval. Refer to manual for apex seal wear checks.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 24,000 miles (typical for the era).
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH 10W-40 or 20W-50 (check manual for specific viscosity and API rating recommendations for rotary engines).
Coolant:
50/50 ethylene glycol antifreeze and water mixture.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Apex Seals:
Wear and failure of apex seals is a common issue with Wankel engines, leading to loss of compression and power. Requires specialized knowledge for diagnosis and repair.
Carbon Buildup:
Can occur in the combustion chambers, requiring periodic cleaning or 'decarbonizing' procedures.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume some oil due to their design; however, excessive consumption indicates seal or engine wear.
Ignition System:
Can be sensitive to proper timing and spark plug health.
Rotary Pioneering:
Mazda's commitment to the Wankel rotary engine began with the Cosmo Sport and continued with models like the RX-2, establishing their reputation for innovative powertrain technology.
Production Period:
1970-1978
Predecessor Successor:
Preceded by Mazda R100, succeeded by Mazda RX-3 and RX-4.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Sales Volume:
Specific production numbers are not widely published but it was a significant volume seller for Mazda's rotary lineup in its era.
Rotary Engine Recognition:
The rotary engine itself received accolades for its smoothness and innovation, though specific awards for the RX-2 model are not widely documented.
Automotive Press Reviews:
Generally well-received by automotive press for its performance and unique character, often praised for handling and the distinct rotary power delivery.
Emission Standards:
Early models met contemporary emissions standards; later models faced increasing pressure to comply with stricter regulations, which impacted tuning and performance.
