1992 Mazda MX3 GS review from North America
"A great all-around fun and practical machine!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Engine Control Unit failed at about 80,000 miles.
Have had to replace the flexible air intake twice (when it becomes cracked, it throws the mixture out-of-whack, resulting in poor idle). Replaced it myself for about $70 US / took about 15 minutes.
Seats starting to wear (I attribute this to normal wear & tear after 16-plus years).
Rust over rear fenders, and under door sills - again, still better than average - I'm in Wisconsin, and they use lots of salt in the winter.
General comments?
Fun to drive (quick, but not fast - it handles great). Nice, precise shifter & sporty handling.
My wife originally bought this car before we were married, and I learned how to drive stick on it. Surprisingly, it still has the original clutch.
Highly recommend a set of dedicated snow tires for it if you drive in winter ice & snow. Separate summer tires make it more fun in nice weather.
I'm thinking of looking around for a '94 GS, to do the KLZE engine-swap (nearly doubles the horsepower).
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| The Devil Car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1992 |
| Year of manufacture | 1991 |
| First year of ownership | 1992 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 V6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 112 miles |
| Most recent distance | 138400 miles |
| Previous car | Buick LeSabre |
| Date of Entry | 25th March, 2008 |