Mazda RX-7 Specs, Engines & Dimensions (1979–1986) — First Generation
The first-generation Mazda RX-7 is a compact Coupe built around a rotary gasoline engine and rear-wheel drive. You will find automatic and manual examples in this generation; they illustrate how the sports car was offered, not a complete lineup.
The compact 1.3-liter rotary is the Mazda RX-7 engine in this generation: gasoline-fed, high-revving, and tied to a rear-wheel-drive drivetrain. Selected Coupe examples include a 1.3 AT automatic and a 1.3 MT manual, so your powertrain choice is mainly about how you work the transmission.