1989 Mazda 323 Hatchback review from North America
"A real gem of a car, lots of fun to drive!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The seats deteriorated and fell apart.
A wire corroded that connected to the positive side of the battery causing a minor problem with turning on the engine.
Muffler and exhaust system were shot when I bought the car. New one installed at about 170,000 miles.
Tune up was given to car around 170,000 and again at 205,000.
A new windshield was installed at 200,000.
The very top of the radiator where the identification plate was welded on developed a hole and was melting all around it at 205,000. I drove it that way until a new radiator was installed at 208,000.
General comments?
Aside from the wear and tear of the car as to be expected for a used car, especially one with over 200,000 miles, it has been a gem of a car. This car has great turning ratio and quick pick up power when needed.
This car has never left me stranded yet, except for my own fault of locking myself out. (oops! ;}) It was very hard to break into the car!
The car has always started up for me without fail until the spark plugs and distributor cap wore out. As soon as the car had a tune up, it started right up again with no problems.
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| Best car I have ever owned! |
|
| 1989 - 323 SE OHC in-line 4 cylinder Low-end, but decent car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1989 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 5 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 167000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 209000 miles |
| Previous car | Datsun 1600 Pick-up |
| Date of Entry | 21st March, 2003 |