Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
2-door Sedan, 4-door Sedan, Coupe, and potentially a Station Wagon (Savanna).
Wheelbase Approx:
95.0 - 100.4 inches (varies by body style).
Overall Length Approx:
160 - 175 inches (varies by body style).
Weights
Curb Weight Approx:
2200 - 2500 lbs (varies by body style and transmission).
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Safety Ratings Era:
No standardized crash test ratings (like NHTSA) were in place or published for vehicles of this era in the same way they are today.
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Brake system (front discs, rear drums), steering system. ABS, traction control, stability control not present.
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Seat belts (lap belts for front, possibly lap belts for rear). Body structure designed for crash energy absorption typical of the era.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment Features:
Basic AM/FM radio, possibly with an 8-track player or cassette player in later iterations or aftermarket installations. Speaker system is rudimentary.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
None in the modern sense. Features like cruise control might have been optional on some models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 20,000 miles. Specific rotary spark plugs required (often two per rotor housing).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Manual: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months. Automatic: Every 24,000 miles or 24 months.
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Differential Fluid Type:
GL-5 hypoid gear oil, SAE 80W-90.
Known Issues
Common Rotary Issues:
Apex seal wear, rotor housing scoring, oil seal failure, carbon buildup in apex seal grooves. Requires specific care and maintenance to avoid premature wear.
Carburetor Issues:
Diaphragm wear in Hitachi carburetors, vacuum leaks, jet clogging leading to poor idling or fuel delivery.
Cooling System Issues:
Corrosion in the radiator, water pump seal leaks, thermostat sticking.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Rotary History:
Mazda's pioneering work with the Wankel rotary engine began in the 1960s, with the Cosmo being its first production car. The RX-3 was a significant step in bringing rotary performance to a more accessible segment.
Model Evolution
Rx3 Introduction:
Introduced in Japan as the Savanna in 1971, it was marketed internationally as the RX-3. It succeeded the RX-2. Known for its sporty handling and unique rotary engine.
Production
Production Period:
1971-1978.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Awards:
The RX-3, particularly the Savanna variant in Japan, was well-regarded for its sporty driving dynamics and unique rotary powerplant, often praised by automotive journalists of the era for its performance in its class.