🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-7 Model Generation: First Generation (SA/FB) Production Years Covered: 1979-1980 Codes Chassis Codes: SA22C 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Mazda RX-7 (SA22C) was positioned as a lightweight, affordable sports car with a unique rotary engine, targeting enthusiasts seeking performance and distinctive engineering. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Primarily competed with Datsun (Nissan) Z-cars, Toyota Celica Supra, and lower-spec Porsche 924s in its segment. Key Features Unique Selling Points: Rotary engine (Wankel), rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, distinctive styling, affordable sports car performance. Manual Value Proposition Value: This manual provides dealership-level diagnostic and repair information, essential for maintaining the unique Wankel rotary engine and complex systems of the early RX-7. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Complete Service and Repair Secondary Coverage: Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting Page Count Estimated Page Count: High (indicative of a comprehensive dealership manual) Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) Language Language: English Format File Format: PDF Delivery Method: Digital Download (.rar/.zip) Viewing Requirements: Zip decompression software (e.g., WinZip, WinRAR, 7-Zip) and PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine Mechanical, Lubrication, Cooling, Control, Fuel, Exhaust, Accelerator Control, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Propeller Shaft, Rear Final Drive Chassis: Front Axle, Rear Axle, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Brake System, Parking Brake System, Brake Control System, Steering Control System Electrical: Starting & Charging, Lighting, Driver Information, Wiper/Washer/Horn, Power Supply/Ground/Circuit Elements Body Interior: Body, Lock & Security, Glasses/Window/Mirrors, Exterior & Interior Trim, Instrument Panel, Seats, Air Conditioning (Automatic) Advanced Systems: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Body Control System, LAN System, Audio Visual/Navigation/Telephone System, Auto Cruise Control System Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, symptom analysis, diagnostic procedures for all systems Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for components and systems, including removal, installation, and adjustments Special Procedures: Rotary engine specific procedures, fuel injection system servicing, suspension alignment Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: Covers from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhauls, suitable for dealership technicians. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Printability: Yes Searchability: Likely searchable text within the PDF Print Quality Quality Description: High-resolution PDF, suitable for clear digital viewing and printing. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Wankel) Engine Code: 12A Rotor Displacement: 1146 cc (573 cc x 2 rotors) Equivalent Reciprocating Displacement: ~2.0 Liters (common comparison for enthusiasts) Performance Horsepower: Approximately 100-135 hp (depending on specific market and emissions controls) Torque: Approximately 110-125 lb-ft Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Carbureted (e.g., Hitachi, Nikki) for most models Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Engine Mechanical Cooling System Type: Liquid-cooled Lubrication System Type: Wet sump, with separate oil injection system for apex seals (oil metering pump) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed manual Optional Transmission Type: 3-speed automatic Features Clutch Type: Dry single-plate Transmission Fluid Type: API GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Style: 2-door Coupe Wheelbase: Approx. 95.0 inches (2413 mm) Length: Approx. 162.8 inches (4135 mm) Width: Approx. 65.0 inches (1651 mm) Height: Approx. 50.8 inches (1290 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2,200 - 2,400 lbs (1000 - 1090 kg) Weight Distribution: Favorable front-to-rear ratio due to compact rotary engine placement. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Results: Limited available data for this era; generally considered structurally sound for its time. Active Features Braking System: Front Disc, Rear Drum (standard); Optional Front & Rear Disc on some higher trims. Steering System: Recirculating ball, optional power steering. Passive Features Seat Belts: Standard 3-point seat belts Srs: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) - Airbags were not standard or widely available in this generation. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM radio, possibly with cassette player. Speakers typically in doors and rear deck. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on some models, listed as 'Auto Cruise Control System' in manual coverage. Connectivity Lan System: Mentioned in coverage, likely refers to an early form of vehicle data networking. Other Features Instrument Panel: Comprehensive gauges including tachometer, speedometer, oil pressure, water temperature, and voltage meter. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months (refer to manual for exact specifications and oil type). Spark Plug Replacement: Intervals vary; rotary-specific spark plugs required. Manual provides details. Timing Belt Or Chain: N/A (Rotary engines do not have traditional timing belts or chains; they utilize a unique rotor and eccentric shaft design). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: Specific rotary engine oil (e.g., SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40) or high-quality conventional oil. Crucially, requires oil injection for apex seals. Coolant Type: Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant (e.g., Mazda's recommended mixture of 50% coolant and 50% distilled water). Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Known Issues Rotary Engine Apex Seals: Wear of apex...
The Mazda RX-7 (SA22C) was positioned as a lightweight, affordable sports car with a unique rotary engine, targeting enthusiasts seeking performance and distinctive engineering.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Primarily competed with Datsun (Nissan) Z-cars, Toyota Celica Supra, and lower-spec Porsche 924s in its segment.
This manual provides dealership-level diagnostic and repair information, essential for maintaining the unique Wankel rotary engine and complex systems of the early RX-7.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
High (indicative of a comprehensive dealership manual)
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Language
Language:
English
Format
File Format:
PDF
Delivery Method:
Digital Download (.rar/.zip)
Viewing Requirements:
Zip decompression software (e.g., WinZip, WinRAR, 7-Zip) and PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader)
N/A (Rotary engines do not have traditional timing belts or chains; they utilize a unique rotor and eccentric shaft design).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Specific rotary engine oil (e.g., SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40) or high-quality conventional oil. Crucially, requires oil injection for apex seals.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant (e.g., Mazda's recommended mixture of 50% coolant and 50% distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Rotary Engine Apex Seals:
Wear of apex seals is a common issue if oil metering is inadequate or engine is abused. Proper lubrication and maintenance are critical.
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetors can become worn or misadjusted over time, affecting fuel delivery and engine performance.
Cooling System Overheating:
Due to the compact nature and heat output of the rotary engine, maintaining the cooling system is paramount to prevent overheating.
Technical Specs
Ignition Timing:
Refer to manual for specific degrees BTDC based on engine conditions and RPM.
Idle Speed:
Refer to manual for specific RPM range for both manual and automatic transmissions.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Rotary Legacy:
Mazda's pioneering development and successful implementation of the Wankel rotary engine, starting with the Cosmo Sport.
Model Evolution
Rx-7 Lineage:
The first generation (SA22C) established the RX-7 as Mazda's flagship sports car, paving the way for subsequent generations (FC and FD) with continuous rotary engine refinement.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Sales Impact:
Successful in establishing Mazda's reputation for sports cars and rotary performance globally.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Sports Car Accolades:
The first-generation RX-7 was generally well-received for its handling, performance, and unique rotary engine, contributing to Mazda's growing enthusiast following.
Ratings
Industry Reviews:
Praised by automotive press for its driving dynamics and affordable sports car appeal.
Certifications
Emissions Compliance:
Compliance with regional emissions standards of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Manual details specific procedures for emissions control.