Although the improved specs are not known, it is obvious from driving this vehicle that a tremendous improvement is noted over the stock Mazdaspeed. of torque at 3,500 RPMs, the enthusiast knew that a larger intercooler and a less restricted exhaust would increase these numbers and he was proven to be correct. While the stock Mazdaspeed produced 170 horsepower at 6,000 RPMs with 160 lb.-ft. The mechanical expertise shown by this aficionado is well demonstrated with this project. The automobile was never raced, or driven hard for that matter, but the results of a few changes made this car far superior to the stock Mazdaspeed models. The owner was a true enthusiast who purchased the vehicle in stock condition and addressed the few concerns that other Mazdaspeed owners commented on to make this car even better. Prices and details correct at publication date.2003 Mazda MAZDASPEED Protege It was only in 2003 that Mazda produced the Protégé Mazdaspeed model and this vehicle is, we are sure, the most outstanding example of this fine automobile. It is best to avoid the hassle in the first place. Dealer used car warranties also vary greatly. Whether buying from a dealer or private seller, the cost of the check is likely to be cheaper than repairs. If you find a car you like we recommend an NRMA inspection (131 122). 2001 models (with 61,000km) are $16,400 and $17,900 respectively.ĭisclaimer: The condition of used cars varies greatly. Ensure the engine timing-belt has been changed in cars exceeding five years of age or 100,000km.Ī 1998 automatic 323 Protege sedan with a 1.6-litre engine and 93,000km is $12,400 a 1.8-litre is $13,100. Check the rear left-hand side brake hose for chafing or wear. The interior surfaces and upholstery are susceptible to damage, so deterioration is not always due to misuse but interiors in good condition do reflect owner care.Ĭheck the service history thoroughly. The gear changes should be positive without any clutch slippage or, in automatics, any wheeziness or lack of definition between ratios. The motor should idle smoothly, run quietly and come up to cruising speed evenly. You could choose between a 1.6-litre 78kW motor or a 1.8-litre, 92kW unit, all available with a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual transmission. The 323 was available as a Protege sedan and an Astina sedan or hatch. If the hose is at all worn or chafed, insist on it being replaced. NRMA inspectors always take a close look at the brake hose on the rear left-hand side with these models, it was subject to a recall when it was found to be rubbing, a condition which could lead to a fluid leak and subsequent failure of the brakes to perform properly. Because the belt is rubber and deteriorates with age as well as use, the five-year limit must be observed. Ensure that this has been done if the car is more than five-years-old, no matter how many kilometres it has covered. Note, also, that the engine timing-belt needs to be changed every five years or 100,000km. There should be no major gaps between services either in distance or time. This means checking the service history is critical. Unless they are serviced regularly and by the book, these cars tend to go off faster than normal, particularly when the odometer has ticked over 80,000km. The longevity of Mazdas, particularly smaller ones, is highly reliant on regular servicing, more so than with many of its competitors. In practice the margins are far finer than Mazda would have us believe but the 323's superior resales are indisputable. This means used Mazda 323s are also a little more expensive than their major rivals but buyers are happy to pay the margin for what they believe is better build quality, better finish and superior technology. There's even a Honda Civic at $19,990 but the cheapest Mazda3 is $20,790. The Mazda3 is seen as a cut above the $19,990 brigade championed by Nissan's Pulsar and Toyota's Corolla. It resulted in a situation where, for many years from 1981, the 323 and Ford's Laser were, apart from minor styling and trim differences, the same car despite the Laser initially being assembled at Homebush.īecause of this, Mazda differentiated the 323 with slightly higher pricing than the Ford, a policy it still follows. Just like they are now for the Mazda3, the 323's replacement.Īnd it wasn't just a trendsetter, the 323 was also the car that attracted Ford Australia into a joint venture with Mazda, then Toyo Kogyo, to produce a small car together. There had been hatchbacks before this (the VW Golf was launched in 1974) but few were taken to heart by Australians quite like Mazda's. Introduced in Australia early in 1977, it hit a chord with buyers. Mazda's 323 has some significance in automotive history.
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