1997 Mazda 323 1.5 gasoline from Belgium

Summary:

If you want the definition of 'reliable', look no further

Faults:

- Tires needed replacement at 140000 KM.

- Wiper linkage broke at 90000 KM.

- Radiator in 2007.

- Two batteries.

- Shock absorber at 235000 km.

- Steering wheel falling apart at 235000 km.

General Comments:

This car is a demon. It is very forgiving about abuse, and just keeps on running, no matter what you throw at it. It is underpowered when you're pulling a trailer. Other than that, it drives you where you want to go without complaints.

The only downside is its cargo space: even with the back seats down, it is too small. OTOH, a van would be more suitable for what I'm doing with the car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 12th July, 2011

1997 Mazda 323 GXi 1.5 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

A car to be proud of, never fails to please

Faults:

Car is very old now, so there have been some minor problems, but I drive it quite hard.

General Comments:

This is my first car, but I'm not that innocent.

Such a good buy! Drives so smoothly, steering, gear change, everything.

Keep the insides of it clean to achieve full performance. I just recently discovered how quickly it can actually go when my boyfriend tapped out the air filter, and what a beautiful noise it makes.

Not the most common car on the road, and certainly not the first thing that would spring to mind when thinking of buying a fast car.

Turns a lot of heads. People who don't know anything about cars always think it is some kind of expensive sports car!

Interior in mine is a little gloomy, however I don't have the best model available. With the price I paid for it though, modifications are more than affordable!

Quite an ambitious car to learn how to drive in, but you can learn more than just the basics in it. Everything about it is affordable.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 8th September, 2009

1997 Mazda 323 323F ZXI 2.0 V6 24v from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Practical 4 door coupe with high grin factor

Faults:

Leaking Sunroof drain.

Brake calipers binding.

Corrosion on brake discs.

Worn drop-links on Anti roll-bars.

Rear suspension Struts leaked oil MOT fail.

General Comments:

Fast comfortable small family car.

Smooth lazy v6 when driven gently, hit 4000 rpm and it roars.

Has to be driven hard to appreciate capabilities of handling and road holding, firm and choppy ride on poor surfaces.

Early pre-ford (1997) Models better equipped.

Parts a little pricey.

Thirsty if enjoyed often.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 15th June, 2008

1997 Mazda 323 1.5 from Estonia

Summary:

Cheap pile of crap

Faults:

Not much, but it's still crap.

General Comments:

Very noisy, uncomfortable, too soft suspension and steering. Body panels too thin, cheap plastic, probably the ugliest interior EVER! Seats give you back pain. Air/heating system is from 1950s etc etc.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 11th June, 2007

2nd Jul 2007, 10:30

Seems like an angry man! As for the comments on the interior - did you not look at it before you bought it?

6th Jul 2007, 07:23

It am forced to drive this car by my company, I own a Mercedes E320

21st Oct 2007, 01:27

It's an excellent car & these comments you made are coming from a person who doesn't even own one???

Please... for it's price you are getting more than you pay for.

Seems like all those comments are because you can't get your hands on one.

Nearly everyone else seems to be very pleased with the vehicle.

I will never sell my Astina, it's a import version with extras that don't come on standard & EXTREMELY WELL LOOKED AFTER. I've had it for 2 years and there is no problem whatsoever, only people trying to scratch & dent it from jealousy, but it's all looked after.

MAZDA ASTINA 323 was voted 2nd sexiest car when released, I agree it's very sexy even after all these years.

1.8 version is very impressive, mine produces 106 kw...

So I think that's awesome & it's very fuel economic.

If you're looking at buying an Astina, I say go ahead you will love it all round... best to stick with 1.8 or 2 ltrs runs better.

Mazda is reliable & affordable, not like Kia, Hyundai etc.. that's when you should worry.

21st Nov 2007, 19:27

Ugly interior?? It actually has great interior & all electric & frame-less windows.

Car is great in and out, 10/10 for me.

This car excellent in every way & is considered to be above average, especially for its price.

14th Feb 2008, 17:39

I think this is not a reliable review, coming from a person who drives the huge cars like Audi and Mercedes. I wouldn't take ant heed. I personally love the Astina and this is the first bad comment I've seen!