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Introduction
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Market Position
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Segment:
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Compact Sports Car / Grand Tourer
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Competitors 1985:
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Nissan 300ZX (Z31), Toyota MR2, Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, Ford Mustang, Porsche 944
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Competitive Analysis
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Unique Selling Proposition:
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Wankel rotary engine technology offering high-revving performance and a unique driving experience, balanced chassis, sporty design.
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Key Features
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Model Appeal:
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Performance-oriented, driver-focused, iconic rotary engine, stylish coupe body
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Engine:
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Rotary engine (12A and 13B), lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (early Bosch L-Jetronic variants or similar), ignition, emissions control
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Transmission:
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Manual transmission (5-speed), automatic transmission (optional, less common for this year/model), clutch, drivetrain components (driveshaft, differential)
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Brakes:
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Front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped on specific trims)
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Suspension:
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Front independent suspension (MacPherson struts), rear independent suspension (Watt's linkage or similar multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings
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Steering:
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Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
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Electrical:
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Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems, gauges, interior electronics, fuses, relays
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Bodywork:
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Body panel removal and installation, glass replacement, interior trim, chassis repair, body dimensions, corrosion protection
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance:
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Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug (apex seal lubricant) checks, belt adjustments
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Diagnostics:
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Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnosis, electrical system testing, engine performance issues
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Repair:
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Engine rebuilds (apex seals, rotor housing, oil seals), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal, electrical component repair
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Technical Data:
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Torque specifications, alignment data, clearances, electrical resistance values, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable for the era
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Complete factory-level, covering everything from basic tune-ups to complete engine and chassis overhauls.
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Engine Specifications
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Primary Engine
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Engine Type:
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Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Wankel)
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Engine Code:
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12A (likely for base models), 13B (optional, including naturally aspirated and potentially early turbo variants depending on specific market/trim for 1985)
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Displacement Cc:
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1146 cc (12A), 1308 cc (13B)
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Rotor Housing Material:
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Aluminum alloy with chrome plating
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Performance
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Horsepower Ps 12A:
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Approx. 100-110 PS
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Horsepower Ps 13B:
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Approx. 135-146 PS (Naturally Aspirated)
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Torque Nm 12A:
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Approx. 130-140 Nm
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Torque Nm 13B:
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Approx. 170-180 Nm (Naturally Aspirated)
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Fuel System
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Fuel Delivery:
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Fuel Injection (Bosch L-Jetronic or similar early electronic injection)
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Fuel Type:
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Unleaded gasoline
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Engine Management
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Ignition System:
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Electronic Ignition (Distributorless ignition or distributor-based)
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Emissions Control:
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Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), air injection (likely)
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change:
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Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months. Rotary engines require specific oil management.
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Spark Plug Inspection:
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Check at 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Specific platinum or iridium plugs recommended.
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Timing Belt Replacement:
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N/A (Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use timing chains or gears).
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Type:
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API SG/SH or higher, viscosity usually 10W-30 or 10W-40. Requires oil with good detergency. Special rotor lubrication system is critical.
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Coolant Type:
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Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
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Transmission Fluid Manual:
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API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
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Brake Fluid Type:
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DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
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Known Issues
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Apex Seal Wear:
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Premature wear of apex seals can lead to loss of compression, rough idling, and poor performance. Regular maintenance and proper oiling are crucial.
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Thermal Radiator:
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Overheating issues can occur if the cooling system is not meticulously maintained. Check coolant levels and radiator condition regularly.
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Oil Seal Degradation:
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Oil seal failure in the rotary engine can lead to oil consumption and potential engine damage.
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Vacuum Lines:
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Degradation of vacuum hoses can cause vacuum leaks, leading to erratic engine performance and idle issues.
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