Market Segment:
Sports Car, Rotary Performance
Key Competitors:
Toyota Supra, Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Mitsubishi 3000GT, Porsche 968.
Vehicle Design Philosophy:
Lightweight chassis, balanced weight distribution, advanced rotary engine technology, exceptional handling dynamics.
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for owners and technicians seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair the iconic FD RX-7, preserving its unique rotary performance.
Model Years Covered:
1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Rotary engine (13B-REW) principles, disassembly, assembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, twin-turbo system operation and diagnostics.
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual transmission (R154/Type B), clutch system, propeller shaft, differential, axles, maintenance, and repair.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (double wishbone), steering system (power assisted), alignment procedures, component replacement.
Braking Systems:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and diagnostics, brake fluid replacement, component servicing.
Electrical Systems:
Engine control unit (ECU), sensors, wiring diagrams for all circuits (engine, body, chassis), lighting, instrumentation, audio system, power windows/locks, security system.
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, doors, windows, sunroof, HVAC system operation and repair, corrosion protection.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, belt inspections and replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds (rotary apex seal replacement, rotor housing inspection), transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, suspension component upgrades/replacement, brake caliper servicing, turbocharger diagnostics and replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts based on symptoms, OBD-II diagnostic codes (where applicable for later years), sensor testing procedures, fuel pressure testing, compression testing (rotary specific).
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive; covers from basic owner maintenance to full engine and drivetrain overhauls, including detailed diagnostics and specifications.
Engine Type:
Twin-rotor, Wankel (Rotary)
Displacement:
1.3 Liters (654cc x 2)
Aspiration:
Twin-Turbocharged (Sequential)
Horsepower Hp:
255 hp @ 6500 rpm (early models), 280 hp @ 6500 rpm (later models)
Torque Lb Ft:
217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (early models), 231 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (later models)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Apex Seal Material:
Ferro-carbon (original), later models may have upgraded materials.
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (rare, primarily for certain markets/years)
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios for each gear available in manual.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, multi-plate wet clutch (some variants) or single-plate dry clutch.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 recommended.
NHTSA Ratings:
Information not readily available for all model years, typically reflects era-appropriate safety standards.
ABS:
Standard on most models, 4-channel ABS.
Traction Control:
Available on some higher trims/later models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard on later models.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts.
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced safety cell and crumple zones.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems, depending on trim level.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Diagnostic Ports:
OBD-I or OBD-II ports (depending on specific model year and market) for engine diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Rotary engines are known to consume oil.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 15,000-30,000 miles, depending on plug type and usage. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use a chain or gear-driven rotor).
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended. Specific API service classification to be verified in manual.
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant or equivalent (typically a P-HOAT type).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Engine Apex Seals:
Wear and failure of apex seals is a common concern if the engine is overheated or not properly maintained/broken in. Oil consumption is normal, but excessive consumption indicates potential issues.
Sequential Turbo System:
Potential issues with the vacuum lines, solenoids, and actuators controlling the twin-turbo system, leading to power loss or inconsistent boost.
Oil Cooler Lines:
Leaking oil cooler lines are a known failure point.
Catalytic Converter:
Can become clogged, affecting performance.
Fuel Pulsation Dampener:
Can degrade over time, leading to rough running.
Rotary Legacy:
Mazda's long-standing commitment to rotary engine technology, dating back to the Cosmo.
Fd Generation Introduction:
Launched in 1991 (as a 1992 model year), representing a significant redesign with a focus on performance, aerodynamics, and handling.
Mid-Cycle Updates:
Numerous updates throughout its production run, including ECU tuning, suspension refinements, interior changes, and powertrain enhancements (e.g., increased horsepower).
Production Period:
1991-2002
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Car And Driver 10Best:
Named to Car and Driver's '10Best' list multiple times during its production run.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While not winning the overall award, it was a highly regarded performance car of its era.
Jdm Icon Status:
Widely considered a JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) icon and a collectible sports car.
