Mazda 323 Fastback (1989-)
  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    I purchased this car seocon-hand, at a cost of £900. This is my 2nd car (before I had a Nova). This car gives you everything; great performance, full eletrics and pop-up lights!

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Petrol cost is ok. On a full tank, I get about 310 miles, but if something does go wrong, parts can be expensive!

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Would rate it 5 stars, but for that extra long trip, I do get backache. I love the controls and all the electrics.

    Performance

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Performance and handling is very good. With 90bhp and beeing 16-value, at 3000rpm it really flies.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Mazda reputation. Always starts up on first go. Not much gone wrong (full minor eletric faults, windows etc), but can be expensive when and if they do go wrong.

    Image

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Love it or hate it. Pop up lights does it for me. I also put some after-market alloys which makes it look sporty, but have to pay extra insurance cost.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Ok, but not for very long miles (200 plus). I get bad back ache - maybe I need a new driver seat?

  • Security and Service

    Security

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Need after-market secuirty. You can get a Cat 2 now fully fitted for about £99.

    Service

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Mazda have been good to me. When I purchased the car, I rang my local Mazda dealer and they told me a lot about the service history on the car, also tech details etc.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    None, but I do keep it regularly serviced.

    Other

    Lumper sensor went, which made the car have a flat spot - cost £60 for a new one.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes