1970
| Also called | Mazda 616 Mazda 618 |
|---|---|
| Production | 1970—1977 |
| Body style | 2-door coupe 4-door sedan |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine | 1.6 L I4 |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Wheelbase | 97 in (2,464 mm) |
| Length | 163 in (4,140 mm) |
| Width | 62 in (1,575 mm) |
| Height | 56 in (1,422 mm) |
| Related | Mazda RX-2 |
The first Capella was introduced in 1970 and lasted until 1974. It was powered by a 4-cylinder SOHC valve engine displacing 1.6 L (1586cc). Bore was 78 mm and stroke was 83 mm. Output was 104 hp (77 kW) and 106 lb·ft (144 Nm).
This generation was sold in export markets as the Mazda 616 in sedan and, for some markets, coupe configurations.
An optional Mazda Wankel engine was offered and known as the Mazda RX-2 outside Japan.
The RX-2 was assembled under contract in New Zealand from 1972 for Mazda New Zealand by Motor Industries International in Otahuhu, South Auckland. It was the first and only rotary-engined car ever to be assembled in the country and was made as both a sedan, with manual or automatic transmission and a manual-only coupé. The 616 was also built but was much less popular.
The Capella received a minor facelift in 1974.
Read more about this topic: Mazda Capella