The Mazda RX-2 RX-3 1971-1977 Service Repair Manual provides comprehensive instructions and procedures for maintaining, servicing, diagnosing, and repairing your Mazda RX-2 or RX-3. This manual is identical to the one used by Mazda technicians at dealerships and covers all models and repairs from A to Z. You'll find detailed step-by-step instructions, clear diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications for every aspect of your vehicle. This manual offers a complete solution for any repair needs you may encounter, making the process simple and efficient. You can easily print out the pages and diagrams you need, allowing you to take them with you to your garage or workshop. With this manual, you'll have all the information you need at your fingertips.
## The Mazda RX-2 and RX-3: Pioneering Rotary Power in the 1970s
The Mazda RX-2 and RX-3, produced from 1971 to 1977, were compact coupes that solidified Mazda's reputation for innovative technology and performance. These models were the first mass-produced cars to feature Mazda's revolutionary rotary engine, a unique design that offered smooth, high-revving power and exceptional handling. The RX-2, launched in 1971, served as the successor to the original RX-7, and its sporty styling, with a low-slung profile and distinctive sloping roofline, quickly gained popularity. It was offered with a 1.0-liter, 100-horsepower rotary engine, providing spirited performance for its time. The RX-3, introduced in 1972, was a slightly larger, more luxurious coupe built on a lengthened RX-2 platform. It retained the distinctive rotary engine, offering a choice between a 1.0-liter or a larger 1.2-liter version, with output ranging from 105 to 110 horsepower. Both cars were praised for their agile handling and responsive acceleration, quickly becoming popular choices for enthusiasts seeking a unique and engaging driving experience.
The RX-2 and RX-3 were not just about performance; they offered practicality and comfort as well. Both coupes provided two-door seating for four, with a well-designed interior featuring comfortable seating and a spacious cargo area. Their compact size made them nimble and easy to maneuver in urban environments, while fuel efficiency was commendable for their era. However, the rotary engine's inherent complexity and susceptibility to wear presented challenges in terms of maintenance and reliability. This, coupled with rising fuel prices in the 1970s, ultimately led to the decline in popularity of these pioneering rotary-powered models. Despite their limited production run, the RX-2 and RX-3 left their mark on automotive history. They established Mazda as a frontrunner in engine technology and showcased the appealing characteristics of the rotary engine, paving the way for future generations of Mazda sports cars.