🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-8 Year: 2006 Codes Platform Code: SE3P 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Sports Car / Performance Sedan Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Nissan 350Z, Mitsubishi Eclipse GT, Subaru Impreza WRX Key Features Unique Selling Proposition: Rotary (Wankel) engine, unique 'freestyle' door system, rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Owner's Manual / Operator's Manual Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for this model) Language Language: English Format Digital Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (Rotary), Transmission, Drivetrain Chassis: Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels & Tires Electrical: Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, Climate Control, Power Features, Security System Body: Interior Controls, Exterior Features, Doors, Seats, Restraints Procedures Included Basic Maintenance: Oil checks and changes, fluid checks and refills, tire pressure checks, filter replacements Troubleshooting: Common warning lights, basic diagnostic checks for engine, transmission, and electrical systems Operation: Starting and stopping procedures, driving techniques, use of controls and features Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive owner-level information for operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not typically include in-depth repair procedures or wiring diagrams found in a service manual. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF File Size: Up to 2000 MB (as stated, likely compressed) Print Quality Printability: Printable on any computer/printer Binding Type Binding: Digital Download (Not a hard copy) Paper Type Physical Medium: N/A (Digital) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Wankel) Engine Code: 13B-MSP Renesis Performance Displacement: 1.3 L (2 x 654cc rotor chambers) Horsepower: 238 hp @ 8200 rpm (Manual Transmission), 212 hp @ 7500 rpm (Automatic Transmission) Torque: 159 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm (Manual Transmission), 151 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (Automatic Transmission) Fuel System Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended) Fuel Delivery: Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (S-EFI) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 6-Speed Manual Optional Transmission Type Optional: 6-Speed Sport Automatic (with paddle shifters in some trims) Features Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 174.4 inches (4430 mm) Width: 69.7 inches (1770 mm) Height: 52.4 inches (1330 mm) Wheelbase: 106.4 inches (2700 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3000-3150 lbs (1361-1429 kg) depending on transmission 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact: 5 Stars (Driver and Passenger) IIHS Side Impact: Good (for models equipped with side airbags) Active Features Braking System: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) Passive Features Airbags: Front Airbags, Side Airbags, Curtain Airbags (optional/standard depending on trim) Seat Belts: Three-point ELR seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Bose premium audio system (optional on some trims), CD player, AM/FM radio. Climate Control: Automatic Climate Control (optional), manual climate control. Driver Assistance Traction Control: Traction Control System (TCS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Keyless Entry: Remote Keyless Entry system Connectivity Auxiliary Input: Auxiliary audio input jack for connecting external music players. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 5,000 miles or 6 months, though synthetic oil and specific rotary oil are crucial. Spark Plug Replacement: Specific interval for apex seals and spark plugs due to rotary engine design (check manual for exact recommendation, often around 30,000-60,000 miles for plugs). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: Specific Rotary Engine Oil (e.g., Mazda Genuine Rotary Engine Oil 0W-20 or 5W-30), requires frequent monitoring and topping up. Special care is needed for oil injection system. Coolant: Mazda Genuine Long Life Antifreeze (Pink) or equivalent. Transmission Fluid Manual: API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (e.g., Mazda Genuine Gear Oil) Transmission Fluid Automatic: Mazda Genuine ATF JWS3317 or equivalent. Known Issues Rotary Engine Apex Seals: Wear on apex seals can lead to compression loss, hard starting, and reduced engine performance. Regular maintenance and proper warm-up/cool-down are critical. Oil Consumption: Rotary engines naturally consume oil as part of their lubrication system. The manual details how to monitor and top up this oil. Catalytic Converter: Can be susceptible to failure if engine misfires or carbon buildup occurs. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Mazda Specialty: Mazda has a long history of rotary engine development and motorsport participation, known for its driver-focused vehicles. Model Evolution Rx Series: The RX-8 replaced the RX-7, continuing Mazda's legacy of rotary-powered sports cars. It aimed for a balance of sports car performance and everyday practicality. Production Production Years: 2003-2012 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Ward Ten Best Engines: The Renesis rotary engine was recognized on Ward's 10 Best Engines list multiple times. Car And Driver 10Best: The Mazda RX-8 was frequently featured on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run.