Mazda RX-8 13B-MSP Renesis 6-Port Engine & 6-Speed Manual Transmission

The Mazda 13B-MSP Renesis is a 1.3-liter, naturally aspirated twin-rotor Wankel rotary engine, exclusively produced for the Mazda RX-8 from 2003 to 2011. Unlike its turbocharged 13B-REW predecessor in the RX-7, the Renesis features revolutionary side exhaust ports (MSP – Multiple Side Ports) that eliminate intake/exhaust overlap, improve fuel efficiency, and reduce emissions while delivering a smooth 9,000 RPM redline. This listing includes the 13B-MSP engine paired with the close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission, the ultimate combination for rotary enthusiasts seeking the purest RX-8 driving experience.

Parameter

Value

Engine Code

13B-MSP Renesis

Configuration

Twin-rotor Wankel rotary (Naturally Aspirated)

Displacement

1,308 cc (654 cc x 2 rotors)

Rotor Housing Material

Aluminum

Rotor Type

2-rotor, 14% lighter than 13B-REW

Compression Ratio

10.0:1

Fuel System

Multi-Point Electronic Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Ignition System

Coil-on-plug (2 spark plugs per rotor – leading & trailing)

Engine Weight (Dry)

112 kg (247 lbs)

Redline

9,000 RPM (6-port high-power models)

Oil Capacity

3.3 – 3.5 Liters (with filter change)

Oil Type

5W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50 conventional/semi-synthetic

Variant

Port Configuration

Power

Torque

Redline

6-Port (JDM High Power)

6 intake ports (primary, secondary, auxiliary)

247-250 hp @ 8,500 rpm

159 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm

9,000 rpm

6-Port (USDM High Power)

6 intake ports

232-238 hp @ 8,500 rpm

159 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm

9,000 rpm

4-Port (Standard Power)

4 intake ports

192-210 hp @ 7,200 rpm

159-164 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm

7,500 rpm

Parameter

Value

Type

6-speed manual, close-ratio, RWD

Gear Ratios

Close-ratio design for high-RPM powerband

Differential

Torsen limited-slip (depending on trim)

Compatible Years

2004-2008 (Series 1) / 2009-2011 (Series 2)

Shifter

Factory short-throw design

  • Side Exhaust Ports (MSP Design): Revolutionary redesign moving exhaust ports to the side plates rather than peripheral housing. This eliminates intake/exhaust overlap, reducing unburned hydrocarbon emissions and improving fuel efficiency by preventing fresh fuel from escaping out the exhaust. Exhaust port area is nearly double that of the 13B-REW.

  • 6-Port Intake System (High-Power Models): Features three intake ports per rotor (primary, secondary, auxiliary) with S-DAIS (Sequential Dynamic Air Intake System) that opens ports progressively based on RPM. Primary ports only at low RPM, secondary at ~3,750 RPM, and auxiliary at ~6,250 RPM for maximum high-end power.

  • Lightweight Rotating Assembly: Rotors are 14% lighter than the 13B-REW, and the flywheel is 20% lighter. This reduction in rotational mass enables rapid throttle response and allows the engine to safely rev to 9,000 RPM.

  • Variable Intake System (VIS): Extends the intake manifold length at ~5,750 RPM to increase low-end torque. The Fresh Air Duct (FAD) valve opens at ~5,500 RPM to shorten the intake air gallery for high-RPM power.

  • Twin Spark Plugs per Rotor: Two iridium spark plugs (leading and trailing) per rotor chamber ensure complete combustion of the long rotary flame front. Plugs should be replaced every 15,000-30,000 miles for optimal performance.

  • High-Pressure Fuel Injection: 392 kPa fuel system pressure with 12-hole primary injectors and 4-hole secondary/auxiliary injectors for precise fuel atomization.

  • Dual Oil Metering Pumps (Series 2): 2009-2011 engines feature electromagnetic oil metering pumps (EMOP) with 3 nozzles per rotor for more precise oil injection and improved apex seal lubrication.

  • Award-Winning Design: The Renesis engine won the International Engine of the Year award in 2003 and was named to Ward's 10 Best Engines list for 2004 and 2005.

  • Close-Ratio Gearing: Optimized for the rotary engine's high-RPM powerband, keeping the engine in the sweet spot between 7,000-9,000 RPM during aggressive driving.

  • Factory Short-Throw Shifter: Crisp, precise shifts with minimal throw distance.

  • Torsen Limited-Slip Differential: Available on Grand Touring and R3 trims for improved traction during corner exit.

  • 50:50 Weight Distribution: The transmission and drivetrain layout contributes to the RX-8's legendary front-midship balance.

Generation

Years

Port Type

Transmission Compatibility

Series 1 (SE3P)

2004-2008

4-port (auto) / 6-port (manual)

P60M 6-speed manual

Series 2 (SE3P)

2009-2011

6-port only (manual)

Updated 6-speed with EMOP compatibility

  • 2004-2011 Mazda RX-8 (Base, Sport, Grand Touring, R3, Shinka, Evolve, PZ, Spirit R)

  • Universal RWD rotary swap projects (requires custom mounts)

  • 1x Mazda 13B-MSP Renesis Longblock (Complete 2-rotor assembly)

  • 1x Intake Manifold with S-DAIS system and variable intake valves

  • 1x Complete 6-Speed Manual Transmission (P60M or Series 2 specific)

  • 1x Clutch and Flywheel Assembly (if included – verify)

  • 1x Shifter Assembly with linkage

  • 1x Wiring Harness (if included – specify generation)

  • ECU, alternator, starter, ignition coils, and spark plugs.