1992 Mazda 323 GT-X BG Hatch review from Australia and New Zealand
"Spends most of its life in the shop"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Radiator tank split after 1 week of ownership.
Water pump failed after 1 week of ownership.
Head gasket blew after 2 weeks of ownership.
According to the AA inspector this one is a good example!
General comments?
For the 2 weeks it was working the car was great fun to drive.
The seats are extremely supportive and the driving position is great.
4WD means the car is extremely grippy in all conditions (I haven't been able to drive in the wet yet) and the car handles great.
I think the engine may have been tweaked and thrashed by the previous owner because a blown head gasket after just 91000 kms is pretty lousy - apparently tweaking is common on GT-X's.
If this car wasn't so damn unreliable it really would be a great car to own. But if you've got a lot of money to spend on repairs and insurance, (and a second car to drive while yours is in the shop) by all means buy it!
Recommended Reviews:
  | Great wee car |
| 1989 - 323 Interplay 1.5 litre petrol An excellent first car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 turbo Manual |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 2/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 91000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 91200 kilometres |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Golf |
| Date of Entry | 13th February, 2001 |