1998 Mazda Protege LX review from North America
"A reliable, fun to drive workhorse!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
No problems in four years of ownership.
Well, to be honest, I had it in once for a "check engine" light, but it turns out it was my fault... I didn't tighten the gas cap tight enough after a fill up. How embarrassing!
General comments?
It's not flashy or luxurious, but this car is seriously fun to drive and very reliable.
This is my second Protege (I also owned a 1990 model), and I've yet to have a engine problem with a Mazda.
The car has good pickup with a manual, but I have driven the automatics and they do seem a little sluggish in comparison. If you've got the choice, I'd go with a manual.
Gas mileage is good too, I've averaged about 27-30 city and 35-37 highway.
My car is super comfortable, thoughtfully laid out, peppy to drive, and cheap! It's everything I wanted in a daily driver.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | Manual |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 35 miles |
| Most recent distance | 39000 miles |
| Previous car | Mazda Protege |
| Date of Entry | 7th December, 2002 |