1992 Mazda MX3 GS V-6 from North America

Summary:

Eye catching little sports car

Faults:

Leaks from moon roof.

New tires needed upon purchase.

New calipers/rotors/pads needed upon purchase.

Needed to repair broken turn signal.

Paint is chipping in spots.

General Comments:

I love the performance of this car, with it's peppy little V-6 and incredible cornering.

Smooth and stylish body.

0-60 in about 8.4 seconds isn't the fastest time ever, but it's not terrible by any means.

Although I've had many problems, I wouldn't blame the car. These were just things the dealer managed to hide from me.

Everything is fixed but the leak, which will be taken care of soon.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd June, 2001

11th Feb 2002, 12:10

It's too bad you had these problems. Mine has been a joy from the beginning to drive. The V-6 got to sixty in about 7.8, and maneuvers comparable to an '87 F-40 I've been told. I've never driven an F-40, but this little car does handle exceptionally well. I wish Mazda would bring the line back with the Rotary engine in it.

7th Jan 2003, 15:45

My first car was the Mazda MX-3 and unfortunately being my first car it received all the thrashing a 16 year old boy would administer. I kick my self in the rear constantly for doing so. My only complaint with the car is not that it wasn't quick, but that it wasn't quicker. I think 1.8L is a little ridiculous for the V6.

I would have to agree with Mazda bringing back the model with the rotary engine. I had a bout with a newer Mazda RX-7 with the rotary engine, although I had the first jump on her all it took for her was a drop in gears and she unbelievably smoked by me.

1992 Mazda MX3 1.6 4 cylinder from North America

Summary:

A small, reliable import

Faults:

Bought this car as a used model, some things were expected to go wrong. Well so far the only thing has been the water pump... which was just replaced. It was expensive but the car is running great again.

General Comments:

The reasons for the low scores are...

1) Performance - this car is not a fast car by any means, and I am very glad I got the manual. I cannot imagine how slow the auto is.

2) Reliability - fairly good car so far, only the one problem.

3) Comfort - don't get me wrong, I know this car is made to handle (AND IT DOES VERY WELL) but the seats are way too hard!

4)Running Costs - parts are kind of expensive.

Also this car is VERY small inside and is not made for anyone with long legs... if you have to get one MAKE SURE it has the tilt steering... you will appreciate it... as mine does not and it is TIGHT!!

One more thing, the paint SUCKS... it is practically falling off my car when I wash it!!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 4th January, 2001

15th Mar 2001, 02:12

I would agree that the power you are looking for is missing; however, if you had went with the V6---OH BABY!!! The little car will WIZ. We have a 92' with 166,000 miles, and she will flat out scoot. A real sleeper car on the roads. I, personally, have surprised many other sport cars. The MX-3 doesn't look like a really fast car, and most that I have met are the 4 bangers, but when you hit about 4,500 RPM's she will run with the best of 'em. AND it will really stick a curve. The 15' 205-50's we have really lay the rubber on the road. Sure it's not a porshee, but it is a real SLEEPER car on the roads. Watch out for these little V6's, or they will see you in THEIR mirror.

7th Apr 2001, 20:36

I have a MX-3 GS V6 and it kicks ass. I've raced Civics and CRXs and whoop their ass.

8th Jul 2001, 05:26

I have a 1996 Eunos 30X, that's what it's known as in Australia. And well the 24 valve 1.8 litre V6 hammers well. I have done a lot of research and the only mods I have made have been intake exhaust which made a whopen difference, and now I'm doing the ECU, can't wait.