1973 Mazda RX3 Rotary

Summary:

Great first car

Faults:

I bought this car from a junkyard. 2 cars actually and combined them into one that worked... The question should really be, what wasn't already wrong with it. However, maybe this will help.

Carburetor damaged.

Starter inoperable.

Uneven tire wear.

That's all I can think of right now, but honestly, considering where it came from it was a decent first car for a highschool kid who enjoyed tinkering.

General Comments:

Total cost for vehicle at purchase (including missing parts bought at auto shop) $250.

Time required to completely refit two vehicles body and engine into one... 100 man hours (amateur).

Final result... A very powerful car that burned oil, backfired even more than a normal rotary, had to be started by pushing or rolling, and could beat a V8 muscle car in a drag race every time.

Rotaries are incredibly powerful and fun, but probably not very safe.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 18th February, 2003

21st Apr 2003, 09:42

Probably not very safe?

10th May 2003, 09:43

Well, I've been in several old RX's and they have a lot of power, but are weak in the safety category. Mine had lap belts only front and back, and with rear wheel drive they don't handle well in adverse weather. That's only the beginning. I could go on, but is that really necessary? My point in the review was that if somebody was considering purchasing one of these, they should consider what kind of driving they'll be doing. I wouldn't recommend this as a family car with small children. Try Volvo. :)