1988 Mazda 323 Base review from North America

Three weeks after I bought the car, the head gasket blew. We were able to fix it ourselves in about 15 hours of work. We figured it was just time. The engine suffered no damage.

Radiator developed a leak from a problem we missed. The bottom fastenings for the electric fan were missing, and after banging back and forth, it finally made a leak. Only about 2 hours to fix.

The front-right tire has a bad wheel bearing that we would have fixed right away, but you need a special tool to get the disk off. (Grr)

I have owned this about 5 months, and I am already in love with it.

Only 90bhp, but 105 lbs of torque at 2500rpm. That and its light weight make for instant response with the gas pedal. Even at 75mph, if you push the throttle even the tiniest amount more, you and your passanger can tell immediately.

Loves the city's, but gets a little grumpy on the expressways. It needs one more gear added onto it, the motor has to spin fairly fast to make 70.

Because the motor must spin so fast, it doesn't have the fuel economy it should.

Despite the cars size, the front is actually quite roomy and very comfortable.

Powerful heater.

When the odd problem comes, it's cheap and easy to fix.

Unique look for a Hot Hatch, looks very rugged somehow. I think it's the body height.

So, to sum it up, beautiful acceleration and power for the actual engine specs, good, but not great economy, low top speed, but a lot of fun getting there. I highly recommend this car.