🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-7 Model Code: SA/FB Generation Generation Name: First Generation Generation Code: SA22C (Initial) Codes Chassis Code Prefix: SA22C 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Sports Car / Grand Touring Coupe Era Context: Pioneering affordable rotary-powered sports car in the late 1970s Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Datsun Z-cars (240Z, 260Z, 280Z), Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, Porsche 924 Key Features Unique Selling Proposition: Compact size, lightweight, rear-wheel drive, and a unique Wankel rotary engine offering a smooth, high-revving power delivery. Design Philosophy: Balanced weight distribution, driver-focused cockpit, and distinctive styling. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Years: 1978, 1979, 1980 Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds of pages Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Official Designation: Factory Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Rotary Engine (12A), Engine Mechanical, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control System Drivetrain: Clutch, Transmission (Manual), Driveshaft, Rear Axle Assembly Suspension: Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System Brakes: Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes, Hydraulic System, Parking Brake Electrical: Wiring Diagrams, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instruments and Gauges, Ignition System, Power Distribution, Exterior and Interior Electrical Components Body And Chassis: Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass, Seats, Interior Trim, Chassis Frame Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement (Rotary Specific), Fluid Checks and Replacements Repair: Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Body Panel Repair Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Diagnostic Specifications, Component Testing Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and diagnostics) Diagnostic Tools: Information on required specialized tools for rotary engines and general automotive repair 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable (depending on scan quality) Print Quality Printability: Printable in its entirety or specific sections Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Wankel Rotary (Two-Rotor) Engine Code: 12A Displacement: 1146 cc (approx. 69.9 cu in.) Rotor Housing Design: Epitrochoidal Performance Horsepower Early Models: Approx. 100-110 hp @ 6000-6500 rpm (depending on market and emissions controls) Torque Early Models: Approx. 105-115 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm Fuel System Carburetion: Nikki downdraft 2-barrel carburetor (for 1978-1980 models) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (Premium recommended) Cooling System Cooling Method: Water-cooled Lubrication System Oil Type Recommendation: API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for exact specifications) Oil Capacity: Approx. 5.5 US quarts (5.2 Liters) with filter change Oil Injection: Separate oil metering system for apex seals 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed manual transmission Optional Transmission Type: 3-speed automatic transmission (less common) Features Clutch Type: Dry single plate clutch Transmission Fluid Type: GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90, check manual) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 162.8 inches (4135 mm) Width: Approx. 65.2 inches (1656 mm) Height: Approx. 50.0 inches (1270 mm) Wheelbase: Approx. 95.7 inches (2430 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2300-2500 lbs (1043-1134 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Refer to vehicle placard 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Ratings: NHTSA and IIHS ratings from this era are not directly comparable to modern standards, but the vehicle was designed with crumple zones. Active Features Braking System: Power-assisted front disc brakes and rear drum brakes Steering: Recirculating ball, power steering optional on some models Passive Features Seat Belts: 3-point front seat belts Windshield: Laminated safety glass 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio: AM/FM radio, optional cassette player Speakers: Typically 2 or 4 speaker system Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional on higher trim levels Headlights: Halogen headlights, pop-up mechanism Connectivity Connectivity Features: None (pre-dates modern connectivity standards) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (typical recommendation) Air Filter Replacement: Refer to manual, typically every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) Spark Plug Replacement: Specific rotary plugs, interval varies, consult manual (e.g., every 15,000-20,000 miles) Coolant Flush: Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km) Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid Coolant: Ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water) Known Issues Rotary Specific Wear: Apex seal wear, carbon seal buildup, potential for rotor housing scoring if maintenance is neglected. Carburetor Issues: Tuning difficulties, gumming of fuel passages, choke issues. Electrical Gremlins: Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring harnesses, and failing relays are common in older vehicles. Rust And Corrosion: Common on body panels and chassis components due to age and environmental exposure. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Mazda Rotary Introduction: Mazda pioneered the Wankel rotary engine in passenger cars, starting with the Mazda Cosmo Sport 110S in 1967. Model Evolution Rx-7 Debut: The RX-7 (SA22C) debuted in 1978 as a successor to the RX-3, aiming to compete with established...