🏷️ Basic Information
Identification
Make:
Mazda
Model:
RX-2
Model Generation:
First Generation
Codes
Internal Model Code:
X601
Chassis Code:
S124A (Coupe), S102A (Sedan)
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Era:
Early 1970s (RX-2 launched in 1971)
Segment:
Compact sporty coupe/sedan, positioned as an affordable performance option
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Datsun 240Z, Toyota Celica, Ford Capri, European sports coupes
Key Features
Highlight 1:
Rotary engine technology (Mazda's Wankel engine)
Highlight 2:
Sporty styling and handling
Highlight 3:
Compact, lightweight chassis
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking unique performance and distinctive styling
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Focus:
Sales Brochure
Secondary Focus:
Marketing and promotional information
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
Varies (typically 8-16 pages for period brochures)
Manual Type
Type:
Sales Brochure/Promotional Material
Language
Language:
English (likely, given context)
Format
Format:
Printed Paper
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Overview:
Highlights key features, styling, performance, and available options of the RX-2
Procedures Included
Overview:
Not applicable for a sales brochure; does not detail repair or maintenance procedures
Technical Depth
Depth:
Superficial; focuses on selling points rather than technical specifications
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
Physical printed document
Print Quality
Quality:
Period appropriate; typically glossy paper with color photography
Binding Type
Binding:
Stapled or folded
Paper Type
Paper:
Glossy or semi-gloss paper stock
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Engine Code:
12A
Displacement Cc:
2 x 655cc (equivalent to approx. 1.3L piston engine)
Rotor Housing Design:
Twin-rotor
Performance
Horsepower Ps:
Approx. 110-130 PS (depending on market and emissions controls)
Torque Kgm:
Approx. 15-16 kgm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (likely Hitachi downdraft twin-barrel)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Cooling System
Cooling Method:
Water-cooled
Lubrication
Oil System:
Integrated oil sump with oil injection system for apex seals (unique to rotary)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-speed manual
Optional
Type:
3-speed automatic (less common)
Features
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate
Drive Layout:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Mm:
Approx. 4050-4150 mm (Coupe/Sedan)
Width Mm:
Approx. 1600-1650 mm
Height Mm:
Approx. 1300-1350 mm
Wheelbase Mm:
Approx. 2300-2350 mm
Weights
Curb Weight Kg:
Approx. 950-1050 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Kg:
Not specified in brochure, but typical for segment
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Era:
Pre-modern crash testing standards
Active Features
Brakes Front:
Disc (typically vented)
Brakes Rear:
Drum
Suspension Front:
Independent, MacPherson struts
Suspension Rear:
Live axle with leaf springs or coil springs
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Standard lap and diagonal seatbelts
Headrests:
Integrated or adjustable front headrests
Body Construction:
Unibody construction with reinforced safety cage
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Radio:
AM/FM radio, potentially with 8-track or cassette player as an option
Speakers:
Typically 2 or 4 speakers
Driver Assistance
Overview:
Minimal driver assistance features; focused on driver engagement
Connectivity
Overview:
No modern connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB, etc.)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (typical for the era, consult actual service manual)
Spark Plugs:
Regular inspection, replacement based on condition and mileage (rotary specific plugs)
Apex Seal Inspection:
Periodic compression checks are crucial for rotary engines
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG rated, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check specific manual)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water
Transmission Oil Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (verify with manual)
Transmission Oil Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent
Known Issues
Apex Seal Wear:
Degradation of apex seals leading to compression loss and smoking
Carburetor Issues:
Tuning complexity, diaphragm wear, fuel leaks
Ignition System:
Points and condenser wear, distributor maintenance
Rust Corrosion:
Common issue for vehicles of this age, particularly in certain climates
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Founding:
Founded in 1920 as Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd.
Rotary Pioneer:
Mazda's commitment to Wankel rotary engine technology since the 1960s
Model Evolution
Predecessor:
Mazda R100 (Cosmo Sport predecessor, also rotary)
Successor:
Mazda RX-3 (Savanna)
Production
Production Years:
1971-1975
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Body Styles:
2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan, 2-door Rotary Pickup (Rotary B Series)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Overview:
The RX-2's primary recognition was its success in establishing Mazda's rotary reputation and its sporty appeal in a growing compact car market.