Types of Mazda RX7 Engines
The Mazda RX-7 engine is a rotary engine also known as the Wankel engine. Compared to the conventional piston internal combustion engines, the rotary engine utilizes a rotary piston to convert the energy of the fuel into mechanical energy. The RX-7 models have three basic types of engines, which include the:
- 13B: The 13B rotary engine features two rotors that spin in separate elliptical-shaped lobes inside a triangular outer housing. The RX-7 13B engine was used in the first-generation Mazda RX-7 models. The engine was further developed with turbochargers in the second and third generations. The 13B Mazda RX-7 engine series include the following:
- 13B: This is the basic version of the RX-7 engine used in the first-generation models. It features a compression ratio of 6.9:1 and produces a power output of 100 hp.
- 13B DEI (Dually Fuel Injection): This RX-7 engine was used in the second-generation RX-7 models. The rotary engine was upgraded with a dual-chamber design and a fuel-injection system. As a result, the 13B DEI rotary engine produced more power, around 135 hp.
- 13B Turbo: The 13B Turbo rotary engine was introduced in the third-generation RX-7 models. The engine was turbocharged to enhance the performance. The compression ratio was also increased to 9.0:1. The RX-7 13B Turbo engine generated an impressive power output of 200 hp.
- 12A: The 12A Mazda RX-7 engine was used in the early models of the RX-7. The rotary engine features a dual-chamber design, which allows it to produce more power and cleaner emissions. The 12A rotary engine also comes with a Wankel design with two rotors.
- 20B: The 20B rotary engine is a more advanced version of the Mazda RX-7 engine. The 20B engine features a triple-chamber design with a three-rotor Wankel configuration. This allows the rotary engine to displace more air and fuel, resulting in increased power output. The 20B Mazda RX-7 engine was used in the RX-7 Spirit R and Type RZ models.
Specification and maintenance of Mazda RX7 engines
The Mazda RX-7 is one of the most iconic sports cars in history. The RX-7, which was first introduced in 1978, quickly made a name for itself in the automotive community. The RX-7 was not only a stylish car, but it also provided people with a great driving experience. The vehicle was powered by rotary engines, a technology that set Mazda apart from its competitors. The RX-7 engine specs are as follow:
- Generation One (1978-1985): The first-generation Mazda RX-7 was powered by the 12A rotary engine. The engine produced 100 horsepower (74 kW) and was mated to a 4-speed manual transmission or 3-speed automatic transmission. It had a lightweight chassis, which contributed to its agile handling.
- Generation Two (1986-1992): The second-generation RX-7, known as the FC series, featured a more aerodynamic design and a larger chassis. The base models were powered by the 12A engine, while the GT and GSL models had the 13B rotary engine. The 13B engine produced between 145 and 160 horsepower (108 to 119 kW), depending on the model. The RX-7 also came with a 5-speed manual transmission or an available 4-speed automatic transmission.
- Generation Three (1992-2002): The third-generation RX-7, known as the FD series, was introduced in 1992. The FD RX-7 was a lightweight sports car with a sleek design and advanced aerodynamics. The RX-7 was powered by a 13B-MSP rotary engine. The engine was further enhanced with twin-turbocharging. The RX-7 13B-MSP engine produced 238 horsepower (177 kW) in the base models and up to 276 horsepower (206 kW) in the Spirit R model. The FD RX-7 also featured a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 4-speed automatic transmission.
- Special Editions and Variants: Throughout its production, the RX-7 had several special editions and variants, such as the Turbo II, Type R, Type S, and Spirit R. These models had upgraded suspensions, brakes, and other performance enhancements to improve handling and overall performance.
Regardless of the generation, the RX-7 rotary engine required regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance, reliability, and longevity. Here are some key maintenance tips for rotary engines:
- Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in the owner's manual. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections, is vital.
- Use high-quality engine oil and maintain the proper oil level. Rotary engines need proper lubrication to reduce internal friction and heat.
- Inspect and replace the air filter regularly. A clean air filter ensures proper air intake and optimal engine performance.
- Inspect the cooling system components like hoses, belts, and the radiator for wear or leaks. Replace them if necessary to avoid overheating and damage to the cooling system.
- Check the spark plugs and ignition system components for wear or damage. Replace the spark plugs every 30,000-60,000 miles or as needed to ensure proper ignition and engine performance.
- Ensure the fuel system components like fuel injectors, fuel pump, and fuel filter are working correctly. Use high-quality fuel and keep the fuel system clean for optimal engine performance.
- Regularly inspect the exhaust system for leaks or damage. A well-functioning exhaust system is crucial for engine performance and emissions control.
- Regularly inspect the chassis, suspension, and brake components for wear or damage. Proper vehicle maintenance ensures safety and performance.
How to choose a Mazda RX7 engine
When choosing a Mazda RX-7 engine, several factors must be considered in order to maximize its potential and ensure a smooth operation.
- Firstly, it is important to understand the driving needs and habits. The choice of engine should be compatible with the required performance. For instance, if high-speed performance is desired, a more powerful RX-7 engine, like the 13B or 20B, should be chosen. On the other hand, if a more balanced and efficient performance is preferred, a 12A or 13B engine would be more suitable.
- Secondly, consider the fuel type and availability. Some RX-7 engines are designed to run on premium gasoline, while others can handle regular unleaded fuel. Ensure that the chosen engine's fuel requirements align with the fuel options readily available.
- Additionally, environmental regulations and emission standards should be taken into account. Older RX-7 engines may not meet current emission standards, which can be a concern in some regions. If compliance with strict emission regulations is necessary, consider newer engine options or explore possibilities for engine modifications to reduce emissions.
- Maintenance and repair considerations are also crucial when selecting a Mazda RX-7 engine. Some engines may require specialized knowledge and skills for maintenance, while others have a wider availability of mechanics and parts. Consider the availability of Mazda RX-7 engine repair shops and parts in the area to avoid potential difficulties and additional costs.
- Ultimately, budget plays a significant role in choosing a Mazda RX-7 engine. Consider not only the initial purchase price but also the long-term costs of fuel, insurance, maintenance, and repairs. Make a comprehensive assessment to ensure that the chosen engine fits within the budgetary constraints.
By considering these factors, a suitable Mazda RX-7 engine can be chosen to fulfill specific needs and expectations, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
How to DIY and replace Mazda RX7 engines
The Mazda RX-7 is a sports car that was manufactured by Mazda from 1978 to 2002. It is known for its lightweight construction, balanced handling, and rotator Wankel engine. The RX-7 engines are known for their high RPM capabilities and smooth power delivery. They offer a thrilling driving experience. The RX-7 Mazda is a lightweight, sporty vehicle. Heavy and powerful, the RX-7 can outperform most modern sports cars. The RX-7 was discontinued in 2008 due to the 2008 financial crisis and changing emission regulations. Replacing a Mazda RX7 engine can be a complex task, but it's certainly doable with the right tools, instructions, and mechanical knowledge. Here's a general guide on how to replace a Mazda RX-7 engine:
- Preparation: Before starting the engine replacement, make sure to read and understand the workshop manual for the specific RX-7 model. Gather all the necessary tools, including wrenches, sockets, pliers, screwdrivers, an engine hoist, jack stands, and a torque wrench. Also, acquire a replacement engine, which should be compatible with the RX-7 model.
- Safety precautions: ensure the car is on a flat surface and the parking brake is engaged. Disconnect the car's battery and ensure the battery is far from the workspace. Make sure to wear safety glasses and gloves.
- Disassembly: Start by draining the engine oil and coolant. Next, remove all components connected to the engine, including the intake and exhaust systems, electrical wiring, hoses, and accessories like the alternator and power steering pump. Take note of how these components are connected, as you'll need to reinstall them on the new engine. Remove the hood and start unbolting the engine from the transmission. Use the engine hoist to lift the engine out of the bay safely.
- Preparing the new engine: transfer all the accessories and components removed from the old engine to the new one. This includes the intake and exhaust manifolds, ignition system, cooling system, and any other components. Ensure that the new engine is compatible with the RX-7's transmission and engine mounts.
- Installing the new engine: Place the new engine on the engine hoist and position it over the engine bay. Carefully lower the engine into the bay, ensuring that it aligns with the engine mounts and the transmission.
- Reassembly: once the new engine is in place, reattach the intake and exhaust systems, electrical wiring, cooling system components, and any other accessories. Double-check all connections to ensure there are no leaks or loose fittings. Refill the engine oil and coolant before starting the engine.
- Final checks: start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Monitor the gauges for any signs of overheating or abnormal readings. Listen for any unusual noises and check for leaks. Once satisfied that everything is working correctly, replace the hood and lower the vehicle to the ground.
Q&A
Q: How long does a Mazda RX-7 last?
A: The longevity of the Mazda RX-7 depends on various factors such as maintenance, usage, and driving conditions. With proper care and maintenance, the RX-7 can last up to 200,000 miles or more. However, this number can vary.
Q: Is the Mazda RX-7 a sports car?
A: Yes, the Mazda RX-7 is a sports car. It is a lightweight and nimble car with a well-balanced chassis, making it a great car for track and road performance.
Q: What is the RX-7's top speed?
The top speed of the Mazda RX-7 varies by model. However, the RX-7 Spirit R has a top speed of about 168 mph (270 km/h), which makes it one of the fastest RX-7 models.
