🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-7 Year: 1989 Chassis Code: FC3S Generation: Second Generation (FC) Codes Production Codes Included: FC3S 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position: Sporty, RWD coupe, known for its rotary engine and handling characteristics. Competed with cars like the Nissan 300ZX (Z31), Toyota MR2, and Porsche 944. Competitive Analysis Competitive Analysis: The 1989 RX-7 (FC) stood out with its unique rotary powerplant, providing a high-revving, smooth power delivery. Its independent rear suspension and well-balanced chassis offered excellent roadholding. While some competitors offered more outright power or luxury, the RX-7 offered a distinct driving experience. Key Features Key Features: Rotary engine, RWD, sophisticated independent suspension, sporty styling, optional Turbo II performance package. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Areas: All Models, All Engines Page Count Page Count: Extensive (Specific number not provided, but described as COMPLETE) Manual Type Manual Type: Complete Service & Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Manual Completeness Manual Completeness: Complete Service and Repair Manual, covering all aspects of vehicle maintenance and repair for the specified model year. 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Systems Covered: Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, HVAC, Body & Chassis, Interior Components, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Procedures Included Procedures Included: Routine Maintenance, Component Removal & Installation, Repair Procedures, Diagnostic Flowcharts, Overhaul Procedures, Wiring Diagrams, Torque Specifications, Special Tool Usage, Troubleshooting Guides Technical Depth Technical Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuilds. Specific Procedures Engine Rebuild: Detailed procedures for rotary engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly, including apex seal replacement and rotor balance. Turbocharger Maintenance: Specific procedures for Turbo II models, including turbocharger inspection, repair, and replacement. Suspension Alignment: Precise alignment specifications and procedures for front and rear suspension. Wiring Diagrams Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive electrical diagrams covering all vehicle systems, including engine control, lighting, accessories, and sensors. Diagnostic Codes Diagnostic Codes Covered: Procedures for reading and interpreting diagnostic codes (if applicable for the era) and troubleshooting based on symptoms. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Print Quality Print Quality: Likely high-resolution scans suitable for printing, with searchable text. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Primary Engine: Mazda Rotary (Wankel) 13B Performance Naturally Aspirated Hp: Approx. 160-165 hp Turbo Ii Hp: Approx. 200 hp Naturally Aspirated Torque: Approx. 190-195 lb-ft Turbo Ii Torque: Approx. 250-255 lb-ft Fuel System Fuel System Naturally Aspirated: Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel System Turbo Ii: Fuel Injection (EFI) with Turbocharger Engine Layout Engine Layout: Rotary (Wankel), Twin Rotor Engine Codes Engine Codes: 13B Rotary Specifics Apex Seal Material: The manual will detail apex seal types and replacement procedures. Rotor Housing Coating: Information on rotor housing inspection and potential recoating or replacement. 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed Automatic Features Clutch Type: Hydraulic Clutch System Final Drive Ratio: Varies by model and transmission (manual/auto), likely around 4.10:1 or similar for manual, different for auto. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approx. 95.7 inches (2430 mm) Length: Approx. 171.5 inches (4355 mm) Width: Approx. 68.7 inches (1745 mm) Height: Approx. 49.8 inches (1265 mm) Weights Curb Weight Approx: Approx. 2,700 - 3,000 lbs (1225 - 1360 kg) depending on trim and options. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Ratings: Specific NHTSA ratings for 1989 models may not be readily available in digital format, but the manual would cover vehicle structural integrity. Active Features Active Features: Power-assisted disc brakes (front and rear), ABS (optional on some trims). Passive Features Passive Features: 3-point seat belts, padded dashboard, energy-absorbing steering column. Brake Specs Front Brakes: Ventilated Disc Rear Brakes: Disc 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional premium sound system. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance: Limited by modern standards; ABS was an option on some higher trims. Connectivity Connectivity: None (No external connectivity or advanced features). Ignition System Ignition System: Distributor-based electronic ignition, with specific timing adjustments detailed in the manual. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Refer to manual for specific interval, typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, with specific attention to oil quality for rotary engines. Spark Plug Replacement: The manual will detail specific spark plug types and replacement intervals, which are critical for rotary engine performance. Timing Belt Replacement: N/A (Rotary engines do not have a timing belt; they use a chain or are gear-driven). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Specification: Manual will specify viscosity (e.g., 10W-30, 20W-50) and API service classification, emphasizing high-quality oil suitable for rotary engines. Coolant Specification: Proprietary Mazda coolant or equivalent (e.g., ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant mixture). Brake Fluid Specification: DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Transmission Fluid Manual: API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity will be specified (e.g., 75W-90). Transmission Fluid Automatic: Dexron-III...
Sporty, RWD coupe, known for its rotary engine and handling characteristics. Competed with cars like the Nissan 300ZX (Z31), Toyota MR2, and Porsche 944.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
The 1989 RX-7 (FC) stood out with its unique rotary powerplant, providing a high-revving, smooth power delivery. Its independent rear suspension and well-balanced chassis offered excellent roadholding. While some competitors offered more outright power or luxury, the RX-7 offered a distinct driving experience.
Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional premium sound system.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance:
Limited by modern standards; ABS was an option on some higher trims.
Connectivity
Connectivity:
None (No external connectivity or advanced features).
Ignition System
Ignition System:
Distributor-based electronic ignition, with specific timing adjustments detailed in the manual.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual for specific interval, typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, with specific attention to oil quality for rotary engines.
Spark Plug Replacement:
The manual will detail specific spark plug types and replacement intervals, which are critical for rotary engine performance.
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (Rotary engines do not have a timing belt; they use a chain or are gear-driven).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
Manual will specify viscosity (e.g., 10W-30, 20W-50) and API service classification, emphasizing high-quality oil suitable for rotary engines.
Coolant Specification:
Proprietary Mazda coolant or equivalent (e.g., ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant mixture).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity will be specified (e.g., 75W-90).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid.
Known Issues
Known Issues:
Apex seal wear, rotor housing wear, oil consumption (inherent to rotary design, management is key), exhaust manifold cracking (especially on turbo models), vacuum hose degradation.
Lubrication Points
Lubrication Points:
Manual will detail lubrication points for suspension, steering components, and other critical areas.
Fluid Capacities
Engine Oil Capacity:
Refer to manual, typically around 5-6 quarts (4.7-5.7 liters) for rotary engines.
Coolant Capacity:
Refer to manual, typically around 7-8 quarts (6.6-7.6 liters).
Transmission Fluid Capacity Manual:
Refer to manual, typically around 2.0-2.5 quarts (1.9-2.4 liters).
Transmission Fluid Capacity Automatic:
Refer to manual, typically around 4-5 quarts (3.8-4.7 liters) for a pan drop.
Tire Specifications
Tire Sizes:
Varies by trim and wheel size, common sizes include 205/60R15, 225/50VR16.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of innovative engineering, particularly with its pioneering work in rotary engine technology.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution:
The FC RX-7, produced from 1985-1992, followed the iconic SA22C (FB) RX-7. It featured a more modern, aerodynamic design and an updated chassis, with a significant performance boost introduced with the Turbo II model.
Production
Production Years:
1985-1992 (for the FC generation)
Production Locations:
Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Recognitions:
The FC RX-7 was generally well-regarded for its performance and handling, often featured in 'best sports car' lists of its era.
Ratings
Ratings:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics.
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