1986 Mazda 323 BF 4dr Hatch review from Australia and New Zealand

Blown Head Casket, cracked manifold, internal head damage, blown radiator and burst radiator hoses when the engine cooked itself.

The gearbox blew during a skid, the replacement lasted about 3 weeks.

Filthy gas tank had to be emptied and fuel lines, filter replaced because of loose gas cap.

I bought this car when I was 15 and did the usual young boy racer mods like tints, hub-mags, exhaust and stereo. I realised the humble Mazda 323's are one of the most common sites on the road and rather lacked in the engine department, but I didn't let that stop me having a lot of fun in my car.

Being the young silly driver I was in my earlier years I would drive the little Mazda to its limits, which when translated to the open road meant a meagre speed of about 165km/h... apart from a few times on the motorway when it hit a good 200km/h.

It has also done a few good skids, though requiring either Diesel, a wet road or some gravel to start smoking the front wheels.

To be honest the car has served me well for the abuse it has had put upon it. Although generally something major has gone wrong with it about every 6 months.

The major purpose of this car is people moving with a great stereo. It does well, it fits 5 people comfortably and fits 4 12" subwoofers with ease.

When fitted with 17" mags, has lowered suspension, 2.5" exhaust, rear spoilers, sideskirts and front spoiler, 5% tints all round, K&N air filter, Mazda banner on front windscreen, 150dB Sounds this car looks quite phat.