From 2003 to 2012, all versions of the well-liked RX-8 sports coupe were equipped with the 1.3-liter Mazda 13B-MSP rotary engine, also known as the Renesis 1.3. There are two generations of this power unit, each with minor variations.
The engine was installed on:
- Mazda RX-8 (SE) in 2003 – 2012.
Specifications
| Production years | 2003-2012 |
| Displacement, cc | 1308 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 192 – 250 |
| Torque output, Nm | 211 – 222 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum W2 |
| Block head | no |
| Compression ratio | 10 |
| Features | Wankel |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.6 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mazda RX-8 2008) — city — highway — combined |
14.9 8.1 10.6 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~120 000 |
| Weight, kg | 112 |
Disadvantages of the 13B-MSP engine
Initially, this engine is distinguished by its high fuel and oil consumption;
Additionally, the unit requires high-quality lubrication to prevent rapid apex wear; eccentric shaft liners are frequently rented closer to 80–100 thousand kilometers;
Oil nozzles seldom travel more than 50,000 kilometers and need routine diagnostics;
Spark plugs and ignition coils need to be changed once every 30,000 kilometers.