Mazda MX-3 (1991-)
  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Lots of car for the money.

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Genuine Mazda parts very expensive but pattern parts available for many items. I get 34 mpg in touring and 28 round town - so slightly thirsty.

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Crisp performance without being shattering excellent roadholding.

    Performance

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Bags of torque from revvy V6 - can pull smoothly from 5 mph in third. Close ratio five speed 'box makes for quick 0-60 but rather high revs on the motorway

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Has never let me down in 2 years.

    Image

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Pretty coupe styling - metallic caribbean blue best in my view.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Rear sets really only for children - mine love them. Front seats Ok but a bit lacking in thigh support.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Factory fit optional alarm useless. Must fit immobiliser (Laxerline is adequate at £120) if you want to keep it.

    Service

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Main dealer not really interested. Would not even put a new maintenance record book in the post to me.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Few problems apart from a misfire below 2500 rpm which was hard to put right.

    Other

    Original rough - cast finish alloy wheels became very tatty. Needed professional refurb costing £180.

    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