1989 Mazda 323 SE review from North America
"Low-end, but decent car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
My clutch went out around 135,000 miles.
The button for the defroster doesn't function properly anymore.
General comments?
The car is lightweight, but I find mine quite underpowered. It is difficult to accelerate quickly as you approach speeds of 50 miles. per hour.
However, the car will accelerate well at lower speeds (0-35 mph.).
I get great gas mileage, Averaging about 30 mpg. on the highway.
The car will begin to shake around 70 mph. This can cause a CD player to skip. At higher speeds (75+) the car made a mysterious clicking or scratching noise. I was never able to figure out what it was.
I bought the car for $500. It was cheaper because it leaks a little oil from burning and dripping. however it is an excellent starter car.
I owned a manual version of the car, I find the car fun to drive, but I wouldn't say the same for an automatic.
One thing I found suprising was that the space where the clock would go, was a piece of plastic. The clock was optional!
Overall I liked this car, It has good gas mileage and it is fun to drive.
Recommended reviews
| A real gem of a car, lots of fun to drive! |
|
| Over-looked and under-loved, this is a great car!! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1989 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | OHC in-line 4 cylinder Manual |
| Performance marks | 4 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 125000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 135000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 17th April, 2003 |