1992 Mazda MX3 GS 1.8 V6 DOHC

Summary:

Looks good, costs you every penny you have

Faults:

I would have to say everything has gone wrong with the car.

2 weeks after I bought it, the engine had to be re-built. Clutch had to be replaced, timing belt was replaced, spark plugs were also replaced. The car can't seem to keep a steady RPM when in neutral, shifts from 600 up to 1500.

It destroys tires, but that's probably due to my driving, brakes tend to overheat on a daily basis, had many electrical problems, including the distributor which cost over 400$ for a used one, and another 300$ to install.

Oxygen sensor is dead, very hard to replace, have to go under the car. All fluids have to be topped up on a regular basis, coolant, oil, power-steering fluid and brake fluid. There is a leak in the transmission.

The car makes noise when windows are down. Parts falling off everywhere. The car is very fragile, it's easy to scratch it with a nail, you could easily destroy this car with your bare hands.

Just recently a seal on number 1 cylinder broke, now the car can't go over 150kmh, takes about 30 seconds to go from 0-100kmh. Because of certain laws in Canada, it would cost me more to sell the car than it is worth, I'm probably just gonna sell it for parts.

General Comments:

There is few cars that are worse than this, I will never buy another Mazda, I would not recommend a Mazda for anyone. Parts are expensive, and every-time you fix something, another part breaks down. It's simply a horrible car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 14th September, 2001

23rd Sep 2001, 14:31

You have probably very bad luck...

I have a `92 Mazda Mx3 V6, which I have had for about 2 years.. I haven`t had a single problem with my car.

Only had to replace parts that has been worn out because of normal use.

Only brake pads and discs.

I love this car, and will probably try to get some "plastic" mods for it :)

- Jannis J. -- Norway

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1992 Mazda MX3 GS V-6

Summary:

Eye catching little sports car

Faults:

Leaks from moon roof.

New tires needed upon purchase.

New calipers/rotors/pads needed upon purchase.

Needed to repair broken turn signal.

Paint is chipping in spots.

General Comments:

I love the performance of this car, with it's peppy little V-6 and incredible cornering.

Smooth and stylish body.

0-60 in about 8.4 seconds isn't the fastest time ever, but it's not terrible by any means.

Although I've had many problems, I wouldn't blame the car. These were just things the dealer managed to hide from me.

Everything is fixed but the leak, which will be taken care of soon.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd June, 2001

11th Feb 2002, 12:10

It's too bad you had these problems. Mine has been a joy from the beginning to drive. The V-6 got to sixty in about 7.8, and maneuvers comparable to an '87 F-40 I've been told. I've never driven an F-40, but this little car does handle exceptionally well. I wish Mazda would bring the line back with the Rotary engine in it.

7th Jan 2003, 15:45

My first car was the Mazda MX-3 and unfortunately being my first car it received all the thrashing a 16 year old boy would administer. I kick my self in the rear constantly for doing so. My only complaint with the car is not that it wasn't quick, but that it wasn't quicker. I think 1.8L is a little ridiculous for the V6.

I would have to agree with Mazda bringing back the model with the rotary engine. I had a bout with a newer Mazda RX-7 with the rotary engine, although I had the first jump on her all it took for her was a drop in gears and she unbelievably smoked by me.