🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-3 (Savanna)

Chassis Code:

S102, S124, S132

Generation Designation:

First Generation

👋 Introduction

Historical Market Segment:

Compact sports coupe and sedan, targeting a performance-oriented buyer seeking an alternative to conventional piston engines. Positioned as a stylish and engaging driver's car.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Corolla Levin/Sprinter Trueno (AE86), Datsun Z-cars (240Z, 260Z), Nissan Silvia, Honda Prelude, Mitsubishi Lancer (later models).

Rotary Engine Appeal:

Unique selling proposition was Mazda's Wankel rotary engine, offering a high-revving, smooth power delivery and compact engine packaging.

Styling And Handling:

Distinctive styling, known for its sporty handling characteristics and lightweight construction.

📋 Manual Details

Market Coverage:

Primarily North American market specifications, with general applicability to global models.

Estimated Page Count:

500-800 (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed publication (original factory document)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine System:

Rotary Engine (12A, 13B) theory of operation, disassembly, assembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, troubleshooting.

Transmission System:

Manual transmission (4-speed, 5-speed) and automatic transmission service, overhaul, and troubleshooting.

Drivetrain System:

Clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles, hub bearings, and related components service.

Suspension System:

Front and rear suspension geometry, component replacement (springs, shocks, control arms, bushings), alignment specifications.

Steering System:

Steering gearbox, steering column, linkage, and power steering system service and adjustment.

Brake System:

Front and rear drum and disc brake systems, hydraulic system, parking brake, troubleshooting, and component replacement.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter), ignition system, lighting, instruments, accessories, troubleshooting.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, trim, frame specifications, rust repair considerations.

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine maintenance, tune-ups, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, timing adjustment.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon faults, diagnostic charts.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, overhaul, and installation for all major vehicle systems.

Specification Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, timing settings, fluid capacities, wiring schematics, component tolerances.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic tune-ups and fluid services to complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and electrical system diagnostics. Suitable for professional technicians and serious DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Quality:

N/A (Original printed format)

Paper Type:

Likely on durable, thicker paper stock common for factory manuals, designed for workshop use.

Binding:

Likely a robust binding such as perfect binding or spiral binding for ease of use in a workshop environment.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Mazda Wankel Rotary Engine

Engine Code 12A:

12A (two-rotor)

Engine Code 13B:

13B (two-rotor, later/higher performance variants)

Displacement Cm3 12A:

1146 cc (actual displacement of rotor housing)

Displacement Cm3 13B:

1308 cc (actual displacement of rotor housing)

Horsepower 12A:

Approx. 100-110 hp (depending on emissions controls and market)

Horsepower 13B:

Approx. 130-135 hp (e.g., RX-3 GT)

Torque 12A:

Approx. 110-120 lb-ft

Torque 13B:

Approx. 120-130 lb-ft

Carburetion:

Downdraft 2-barrel carburetor (e.g., Hitachi, Mikuni), some models may have had higher-performance dual side-draft carburetors.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended for optimal performance and longevity)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed manual transmission

Optional Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (available on higher trims/later models)

Automatic Transmission Option:

Optional 3-speed automatic transmission

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan, 2-door Coupe (less common variants may exist)

Wheelbase Mm:

Approx. 2400 mm (94.5 in)

Length Mm:

Approx. 4200-4300 mm (165.4-169.3 in)

Width Mm:

Approx. 1600-1620 mm (63.0-63.8 in)

Height Mm:

Approx. 1350-1380 mm (53.1-54.3 in)

Curb Weight Kg:

Approx. 950-1050 kg (2094-2315 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4 x 110 mm

Recommended Tire Size:

175/70 SR 13 or 185/70 SR 13 (varies by trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data Availability:

Limited to no official crash test data readily available from modern standards for this era of vehicle.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (some high-performance models may have featured 4-wheel discs).

Seat Belts:

Standard lap and shoulder belts (front), lap belts (rear).

Structural Safety:

Basic unibody construction with crumple zones (typical for the era).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with optional cassette player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

ABSence Of Modern Features:

No electronic driver assistance systems or advanced safety features common in modern vehicles.

No Digital Connectivity:

No provisions for Bluetooth, USB, or other digital connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first. Rotary engines require specific oil properties and consistent changes.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km), depending on type (e.g., conventional vs. platinum).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km), or as needed based on driving conditions.

Coolant Flush:

Every 24,000 miles (38,400 km) or 2 years.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SF or SG classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40. Crucially, use oil specifically formulated for rotary engines (though less common today, early manuals specified specific properties to handle the apex seal lubrication).

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Capacity around 7-8 liters.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent (check specific model year).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check specific manual for precise recommendation).

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5 SAE 80W-90 gear oil.

Apex Seal Wear:

The most critical wear item in a Wankel engine. Symptoms include loss of compression, difficulty starting, rough idle, and increased oil consumption. Regular oil changes and proper warm-up/cool-down are crucial.

Carbon Buildup:

Can occur in the combustion chambers and exhaust ports, potentially leading to performance issues. Periodic 'decarbonizing' procedures may be required.

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines naturally consume a small amount of oil for lubrication of the apex seals. Excessive consumption indicates seal wear or other internal issues.

Cooling System Maintenance:

Crucial for rotary engine longevity. Overheating can accelerate seal wear. Ensure radiator, hoses, and thermostat are in good condition.

Vacuum Leaks:

Common due to age of hoses and intake manifold gaskets. Can cause rough idle and poor fuel economy.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary History:

Mazda's commitment to the Wankel rotary engine began with the Cosmo Sport 110S and continued with the R100, RX-2, RX-3, RX-4, RX-7, and later MazdaSpeed models. The RX-3 was a critical model in establishing Mazda's reputation for innovative powertrains.

Rx-3 Introduction:

Introduced in Japan in 1971 as the Savanna. North American debut shortly thereafter. It evolved through several updates and engine options.

Body Style Development:

Initially offered as a coupe and sedan. A hatchback ('Grand Luxe' or 'L' model) was also available in some markets, particularly Japan.

Production Years:

1971-1978

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism Acclaim:

While not typically receiving specific "awards" in the modern sense, the RX-3 was often praised in period automotive press for its engaging driving experience, unique engine, and sporty styling, cementing Mazda's reputation in the performance compact segment.

Performance Reviews:

Consistently reviewed as a nimble and fun-to-drive vehicle, particularly the coupe variants.