Now in model range Mazda The 323 model no longer exists - it was replaced by a car with the shorter name Mazda 3. However, fans of Japanese cars will remember the 323 series for a long time, because it first appeared in 1963. Today we will talk about the fifth generation Mazda 323, popular in our second-hand market, which was produced from 1994 to 1998.

“323rd” began to enjoy great popularity in Europe in the eighties, when German car magazines began to put Mazda at the top of their charts according to one of the most important criteria for buyers - price/quality. It should not be surprising that the fifth generation Mazda 323 (sometimes they say that these cars have a BA or BHA body, although in fact the body should have been called BH, because previous generation cars had the index BG) were produced for only four years. This does not mean at all that the model turned out to be bad, and Mazda was forced to discontinue it. Everyone has long been accustomed to the fact that in Japan, automakers often change and modernize their cars. For example, the Mazda 323 we are currently considering has undergone as many as three modernizations in four years! The first version was produced from April 1994 to August 1995 and these cars can be identified by their VIN number, in which the last six digits begin with “1”. Such cars have an old control panel, inherited from the previous Mazda 323 BG. The second generation Mazda 323 BA (produced from August 1995 to October 1996) received a more modern and convenient center console and a new logo in the form of a Lotus icon (previously there was a diamond). The last six digits of the VIN number of such cars begin with “3”. Well, the most latest versions Mazda 323 BA were produced from October 1996 to June 1998 (VIN starts with "5"). Their emblem began to look like a flying bird, slightly different mirrors appeared, an additional brake light, the dashboard was replaced, etc.

There are no more virgins left

Mazda 323 BA was produced in various bodies, which is quite natural. Unusually, each body had its own design. And if the sedan (indicated by the additional letter S) looks a bit boring - there is no zest that would attract attention - then the hatchback makes a completely different impression. By the way, hatchbacks are available in both 3- and 5-door versions (designated, respectively, by the letters “C” and “F”, and after the 1996 Restyled - “P” and “F”). Moreover, the 5-door hatchback 323F looks like a coupe. This certainly appealed to many motorists. To confirm these words, we can say that a very large part of the Mazda 323F is painted in various shades of red (cars of this color were especially loved in Japan). In general, the Mazda 323 hatchback was perceived by many as a kind of “Ferrari for the poor.”

The pseudo-sporty style of the Mazda 323 was emphasized by all sorts of little things. For example, the doors were made without top frames. This solution is more often found on expensive sports coupes, and even then not on all of them. True, you shouldn’t be particularly happy about this. As operating experience shows, if a car has undergone a less-than-quality repair, over time, at speeds of more than 100 km/h, the glass sometimes begins to rattle a little due to a loose fit.

A certain disadvantage of targeting buyers with sporting ambitions is that secondary market there are a lot of cars involved in accidents - due to their appearance and rather fast engines, these cars provoke drivers to drive fast with all the ensuing consequences. According to representatives of the Mazda 323 lovers club (there is one in Moscow), pristine Mazda 323s are almost never found here, so the most important thing when buying a car is to determine whether the car has been well repaired. It is necessary to carefully inspect all the gaps between the body panels. Quality Mazda assembly The fifth-generation 323 was quite good, so any unevenness between body elements is clear evidence of strong impacts that have occurred in the past. Mazda 323 bumpers are painted the same color as the body. It certainly does appearance the car looks more attractive, but at the same time, the slightest carelessness when parking leads to clearly visible scratches appearing on the car (this is also facilitated by not the best rear visibility from the driver’s seat).

There are no problems with the corrosion resistance of the Mazda 323 model 1994-1998. In principle, they were not present on earlier generations of this model, but still on cars produced in the 80s there are so-called “ weak points" On the fifth generation of the car, it is generally impossible to name the points where corrosion can appear so quickly, because even if a piece of paint flies off during a minor accident, the iron remains intact even after two years of operation. The only place in the entire car that somehow suffers from corrosion is exhaust system. The Japanese, of course, did everything possible to make the muffler last as long as possible, but still from time to time some element of the “muffler” has to be welded or replaced. Most often it burns out rear end muffler at the junction of the supply pipe with the “barrel”, and the thermal protection under driver's seat, while making an unpleasant sound at 2000-2500 rpm.

Inside the Mazda 323 is quite standard car for its time. There is nothing interesting in the design of the front panel, and the interior design can even be called boring and dull. But, despite the abundance of not the most expensive gray plastic, everything is made very high quality and soundly. So, even on a car manufactured in 1994, there should not be any strong squeaks while driving. Many people like the front seats, thanks to which even on long trips the back does not get too tired. On back seat Two people can sit relatively quietly, but no more. Still, this is a golf car, not a luxury limousine.

The trunk volume of the Mazda 323 is also at an average level for its size (it all depends on the body type). Moreover, even in a sedan you can recline the backrest rear seat and thanks to this, transport long objects. As for the level of equipment, it, as always, differs significantly depending on the modification. So you can find cars both “without nothing” and with complete “stuffing”, which included everything, right down to leather interior trim. For used car buyers important information It will be that the electric drives and various bells and whistles available in the Mazda 323 work without breakdowns for a very long time, even in Russia. And sometimes there are complaints only about the low beam headlights, but this is not at all scary.

Club of interests

The fifth generation Mazda 323 was equipped with a not very wide range of engines. There were only four gasoline engines. The weakest of them has a volume of 1.4 liters. and power 73 hp. This engine was installed only on 3-door cars and sedans, but the most common 5-door hatchbacks did not have them. And rightly so. Still, 73 “horses” is not enough for a car that, with its entire appearance, shows that it can be driven quite quickly. But in fairness, it is worth noting that even a 1.4-liter engine allows the Mazda 323 to feel quite confident in city traffic, and in terms of its dynamics, such a car can be easily compared with our 16-valve “tens”.

The 1.5-liter engine with 88 hp looks more natural on the Mazda 323. (designated as Z5). According to the owners of the Mazda 323 with such a unit, the 1.5-liter 16-valve engine allows you to “ignite” to the fullest. The most important thing is to keep the speed above 3.5 thousand. Then the dynamics will be at the same level, and fuel consumption will remain within the range of 9-11 liters. per 100 km. There is also a 1.8-liter unit (114 hp), but some Mazda repairmen don’t like it too much, since after a mileage of 70-100 thousand km. it may begin to actively consume oil due to the occurrence oil scraper rings. That's why the most the best option A car with a 1.5-liter engine is considered.

By the way, the Mazda 323 was also equipped with a very exotic 2.0-liter V6 engine, which in most cases produced 144 hp. (denoted by the letters KF). It is believed that its power was artificially “stifled” to comply with environmental standards, and in Japan the Mazda 323 with a slightly modified V6 (KF-ZE) was sold and its power was already 170 “horses” (and it is worth noting that the fourth generation Mazda 323, produced from 1989 to 1994, was equipped with an engine that, with a volume of 1840 “cubes”, produced 185 hp). Despite his high power, 2.0-liter V6 engines are considered reliable, but by now these cars have already traveled quite a lot of kilometers. It’s enough for the engines to be very worn out, because the Mazda 323 GT (that’s how cars with V6 were designated) were aimed at fast driving. And often the Mazda 323 GT sold requires a “capitalization”, which costs about a thousand dollars (usually owners order almost new motor from Japan that it costs almost the same money).

There were two diesels. Atmospheric volume 2.0 l. (71 hp) and a 1.7-liter turbocharged engine with 82 hp. It’s not worth buying a Mazda 323 with such units out of a desire to save money, since Japanese diesel engines require frequent maintenance (preferably every 5 thousand km) and only branded consumables. All this ultimately eats up the benefits of cheaper diesel fuel. So for those who want to pay less for fuel, it is best to buy a car with a gasoline engine and equip it with gas-fuel equipment. With active driving, it will pay for itself in the first year, although the use of gas on Mazda engines greatly reduces the service life of the seals (dries them out).

Gasoline engines have a long service life and should last 300 thousand km even on our gasoline. Of course, the spark plugs will have to be changed more often than in Europe, but they are also quite durable. Repairs may be required in the future, although it all depends previous owners. If the engine was filled in time good oil(every 10 thousand km) and did not drive in racing mode, then everything will be fine with the engine for a long time. However, hydraulic compensators long runs, most likely, will still have to be replaced (the 1.5-liter Z5 does not have hydraulic compensators - only washers). To check the condition of the hydraulic compensators you need to start cold engine and listen to see if the motor makes a characteristic metallic clicking sound. If it is, then the fault is not their malfunction, but the RCMN ( pressure reducing valve oil pump) which wears out over time and does not provide sufficient oil pressure in the engine. Replacing the RCMN helps in 95% of cases. Used Mazda 323s often suffer from oil leaks. If this is the case, it probably needs to be changed either valve stem seals, or valve seals (each of these operations costs $100-200). By the way, it is worth noting that there is no particular point in repairing the fifth generation Mazda 323 at cool branded service stations. According to the testimony of the owners of these cars, they are not very familiar with such cars, and they take a lot of money. So it’s better to contact the so-called Mazda repair club services, the addresses of which can be easily found on the Internet at relevant conferences. By the way, it’s best to come to these same stations before buying a car, especially since diagnostics there are free!

Most fifth-generation Mazda 323s are equipped with a 5-speed transmission manual transmission, although there are cars with automatic transmissions. Both gearboxes are reliable, but some manual gearboxes show unclear gear shifting - after a mileage of 100 thousand km, the synchronizers gradually begin to deteriorate. So you need to pay attention to this. Well, cars with automatic transmission in the vast majority of cases only require regular oil and filter changes every 50 thousand km. (during this operation, it is necessary to clean the special magnets from metal microchips).

No need to relax

The suspension of the Mazda 323 holds up well even on our roads. Although we must immediately warn that these cars may seem harsh to many. Despite the pseudo-sporty style, ground clearance quite enough even for driving in winter. The only thing that can be said about the reliability of the Mazda 323 suspension is that there are often cars with a mileage of more than 150 thousand km in which nothing (!) has been changed in the suspension. And only the shock absorbers ($70-100) usually “die” by this mileage (sometimes the stabilizer struts fail a little earlier). But ball joints, silent blocks and levers serve 200 thousand km each. Of course, such excellent suspension survivability is commendable, but the buyer of a used Mazda 323 should not relax. After all, no one can guarantee that this particular car has not already crossed the line when the suspension needs to be shaken up. And this can cost more than $1 thousand. By the way, it is worth noting that when checking, you need to very carefully inspect the CV joint covers. With high mileage they often crack. If you don’t immediately notice that the CV joint is already sentenced to death.

There are no complaints about brake system(there are discs in the front, and usually drums in the back, although on 2-liter models there are discs everywhere). Many owners of the fifth generation Mazda 323 note the amazing durability of the pads. For example, even disc ones will last 50-70 thousand km. As experience shows, it is better not to waste money and install branded pads - non-original ones can “float” when braking and sometimes have different sizes and shapes! So it’s better not to skimp on brakes. Moreover, Mazda branded pads cost about the same as for many other similar cars - about $40-90 per set, depending on the modification. But now many fifth-generation Mazda 323s are gradually starting to wear out brake hoses, which may have to be changed by the new owner.

The fifth generation Mazda 323 deserves the most flattering ratings in terms of reliability. At least, according to the latest rating of the German organization TUV, which carries out technical inspection of cars, the Mazda 323 is in 17th place out of 70 cars aged 8-9 years. For comparison, the BMW 5-Series has a 28th result, Volkswagen Passat- 36th, and Volvo 440/460 is only in 66th place. However, buyers of a used Mazda 323 shouldn't be reassured by these numbers. Despite the reliability of the car, you need to remember that with high mileage it is often necessary to change many parts in the suspension, which cost quite a lot. And the engine can also throw up unpleasant surprises. If everything is in order with the car, then the Mazda 323 is perfect for those drivers who need simple and reliable car without unnecessary show off.

Excursion

The first generation Mazda 323 was introduced back in 1963. Then it was a nondescript little car with rear wheel drive, which, nevertheless, marked the beginning of a whole family. The second generation Mazda 323 appeared only in 1980 and had front wheel drive.

The third version of the Mazda 323 did not have to wait long - the debut of this model took place in 1985. As a matter of fact, starting from the 80s, new generations of Mazda 323 appeared every 4-5 years, and besides, during this time the cars managed to undergo some modernizations. Thus, the “fourth” Mazda 323, which is often encountered in our country, was introduced in 1989 (such cars are designated as BG), and the fifth generation was produced from 1994 to 1998 (BA body).

In 1998, the next, already sixth, version of the Mazda 323 (BJ body) was introduced, which in 2000 underwent restyling. Three years later, sales of a new model in this class began, which received a slightly different name - Mazda 3.

We thank the Mazda car enthusiasts club (www.mazda-fun.net.ru) for their help in preparing the material.

Fitting

A 1996 Mazda 323 with a 1.5-liter engine was brought to Russia from Germany three years ago. Immediately after the purchase, the oil, timing belt, two front shock absorbers and brake pads on all wheels. After that, the car required virtually no expenses, although the owner had already driven more than 60 thousand km on our highways. The only thing I had to do was install a new muffler, replace two rear shock absorbers and a crunchy CV joint. And even then the last repair had to be performed due to the torn boot not being replaced in time.

A recent inspection showed that new brake pads need to be installed. Otherwise, there are no complaints about the car, although it is possible that in the next 10-20 thousand km. Some suspension elements will need to be changed. Now the owner has decided to sell his Mazda 323 for $7000 and, adding money, buy new car– Mazda 3.

The first generation of the Mazda 323 was produced since 1963, and from 1994 to 1998, the fifth generation was assembled. The fifth generation Mazda 323 received the BA index. The car belongs to the “C” class and at one time became a competitor for such cars as and. Today, a used Japanese car is comparable in cost to. IN this review Let's get acquainted with the description and technical characteristics of the Mazda 323 BA. During the four years of its production, the car underwent three modernizations. Updated cars can be identified by the first digits of the last six VIN characters- code, the last six characters of the VIN code of cars produced before the first restyling produced in 1995 begin with the number 1. The last six characters of cars produced from 1995 to 1996 begin with the number 3, and the Mazda 323 BA released after the last restyling in 1996 the VIN code designation has the number 5. It is noteworthy that at one time the Mazda 323 was considered a reliable car, so in the German car reliability rating - TUV, the Mazda 323 won 17th place, while it received 27th place, and 36th oh.

Appearance and body:

The modernized Mazda 323 BA can be distinguished by external differences. So, after the second restyling, the “diamond” emblem gave way to the emblem that is familiar today. Both before and today, when purchasing a Mazda 323, the buyer could choose between three various bodies. Mazda sedan had additional designation- “S”, the three-door hatchback was designated by the letter “C”, and the most beloved five-door hatchback among the people was designated by the letter “F”. After the last restyling in 1996, the three-door hatchback received a new index - “P”. “Efka” looks the most dynamic; its doors do not have window frames. The headlights on all three body types are different, pay attention to the photo. Above is a photo of a sedan, in the middle is a photo of a three-door hatchback, and below is a photo of a five-door hatchback - Mazda 323 F. We also note that during the development of the body for the Efka, active participation in the project hosted by Porsche specialists. Depending on the configuration, equipment and the Mazda engine installed under the hood, the three hundred and twenty-third BA is equipped with tires measuring 175/70 R13, 185/65 R14, and 195/60 R15. The latest tires were installed on the six-cylinder Mazda 323 GT, which is very, very difficult to find in the CIS countries.

Salon:

In 1995, a new center console began to be installed on the Mazda 323 BA; most cars are equipped with two airbags. It is not uncommon for Mazda to have air conditioning, electric mirrors and servo drives for all four windows. The most modest trunk of a three-door car, the Mazda 323 C/P can accommodate only 300 liters of luggage. which, by and large, is quite enough for most drivers. The Efka's trunk is more spacious, it holds 346 liters of luggage, but the sedan has the most spacious trunk - 427 liters.

Technical part and characteristics of Mazda 323

The Mazda 323 BA engine range includes four petrol and two diesel power units. The least powerful gasoline engine is a 1.4-liter four-cylinder unit; this engine produces 73 horsepower and a torque of 108 N.M. This engine could be installed on a Mazda sedan and three-door hatchback; the 1.4 unit was not installed on the Efki. With a manual transmission, such an engine allows you to reach a speed of 164 kilometers per hour on the highway. The most popular and widespread is the 1.5-liter gasoline engine; the power plant is designated Z5. The Z5 makes 88 horsepower. horsepower and torque of 134 N.M. The Z5 cylinder head is equipped with two camshafts. WITH manual transmission the 1.5 unit allows you to accelerate to one hundred kilometers per hour in 11.8 seconds, and maximum speed is 173 km. There are no hydraulic compensators on the 1.5; the thermal clearances are adjusted using shims. The most powerful four-cylinder gasoline engine is a 1.8-liter power unit with a power of 114 hp. The compression ratio of this unit is 9.0:1, which allows you to drive on 92 gasoline. The engine cylinder diameter is 1.8-83mm, and the piston stroke is 85mm. Power point allows you to accelerate to one hundred kilometers per hour in 10.2 seconds, and the maximum speed of the Mazda 323 BA with a 1.8 engine is 188 km. The most powerful engine of those installed on the Mazda 323 BA is a 2.0-liter six-cylinder gasoline engine with a power of 144 horsepower and a torque of 180 N.M. This unit was installed on a larger sedan -. The V6 engine index is KF, the compression ratio of V6 2.0 is 9.5:1, which already makes the use of 95 gasoline desirable. Cylinder diameter - 78mm, piston stroke - 69.6mm. The V6 version was designated GT. The Mazda 323 BA engine range included two diesel engines, the first naturally aspirated 2.0 engine produces 71 hp, and the 1.7 liter turbodiesel produces 81 hp.

The transmission options for Mazda are five-speed manual transmission transmissions, as well as a four-speed automatic. It is recommended to change the oil in the machine at least once every 50,000 km.

When the mileage exceeds 100,000 km, the synchronizers in a manual transmission fail. Chassis Mazda can be safely called reliable: shock absorbers last 150 thousand, ball joints, silent blocks and levers can last up to 200,000 km. Even the front brake pads wear out only at 60,000.

Let's pay attention technical specifications Mazda 323 F with the most common 1.5 liter engine with manual transmission.

Specifications:

Engine: 1.5 petrol

Volume: 1489cc

Power: 88hp

Torque: 132N.M

Number of valves: 16v

Performance indicators:

Acceleration 0 -100km: 11.8s

Maximum speed: 175km

Average fuel consumption: 7.2l

Capacity fuel tank: 55l

Dimensions: 4245mm*1695mm*1355mm

Wheelbase: 2605mm

Curb weight: 1115kg

Ground clearance/clearance: 120mm

Price

Today the price of a well-maintained Mazda 323 BA is $5,000-$7,000. Typically the price depends on technical condition more than the year of manufacture.

Third generation. The main sales market for the 323rd was European countries; in the USA this model was called the Mazda GLC.

Rear-wheel drive cars were produced at the Hiroshima plant with three- and three-wheel drive bodies. five-door hatchback, station wagon, sedan and van, which was a two-seater station wagon without glazing cargo compartment. Mazda 323 was equipped gasoline engines 1.0 (45 hp), 1.3 (60 hp), 1.4 (70 hp), and in South Africa there was also a version with a 1.6-liter Mitsubishi engine. Transmissions - manual or three-speed automatic.

Despite the change of generations in 1980, the first generation station wagon continued to be made until 1986, but in an updated form.

2nd generation (BD), 1980

The second generation cars, which debuted in 1980, became front-wheel drive. Shortly before this, co-owner Japanese company became the Ford concern, so American specialists also took part in the development of the Mazda 323, and the car’s platform was used to create the car. There were three body types - a hatchback with three or five doors and a sedan, and under the hood of the “323rd” they installed engines 1.1 (56 hp), 1.3 (69 hp) and 1.5 (76 or 86 hp).

3rd generation (BF), 1985

The third generation Mazda 323 was introduced in 1985 in sedan, hatchback and station wagon body styles. In 1987, the model range was replenished with a two-door coupe, and a year later - with a convertible. The name "323" was now used in the American market.

The car was equipped with 1.1, 1.3, 1.5, 1.6 petrol engines with power from 56 to 104 hp. s., as well as a 1.7-liter diesel engine (58 hp). The most powerful was the version with a 145-horsepower 1.6-liter turbo engine, which was offered not only with a front-wheel drive, but also with all-wheel drive.

The production of the third Mazda 323 continued in South Africa until 2003 (there it was also sold as the Ford Tonic), where a pickup truck was even created on its basis. And in the early 1990s they installed on South African cars two-liter engine power 148 hp With.

4th generation (BG), 1989

The next update of the model occurred in 1989. The “fourth” Mazda 323 had sedan, three-door hatchback, and model range There was the 323F five-door hatchback, which featured a distinctive design with pop-up headlights. In the USA, the sedan was called Protege.

The car was equipped with naturally aspirated gasoline engines of 1.3, 1.6 and 1.8 liters with a capacity of 67 to 128 hp. s., as well as a 1.7 turbo engine that developed 163–210 hp. With. depending on modification. The output of the 1.7-liter diesel engine was 58 horsepower. It is noteworthy that the Mazda 323 was offered not only with front-wheel drive, but also with all-wheel drive.

5th generation (BH), 1994

The fifth generation, introduced in 1994, continued the tradition different designs For different types bodies: the sedan had a traditional, inexpressive appearance, and the three- and five-door hatchbacks had a memorable, sporty appearance. The Mazda 323 was offered with gasoline engines of 1.3, 1.5, 1.9, 2.0 (75–146 hp) and diesel engines of 1.7 and 2.0 liters. Modifications with all-wheel drive and turbocharged power units have disappeared from the lineup.

Mazda 323 cars have confidently occupied their niche in the field of used cars. They are approachable, playful, attractive and they are “Japanese”. This means that the car being sold is manufactured with high requirements to the quality of each part or spare part, with a large margin of safety, excellent technical equipment and an affordable price compared to their many European platform competitors.

Thanks to this, the cars have excellent maintainability. Some Mazda 323 spare parts are interchangeable with similar components from cars of other brands. This makes servicing your vehicles much easier, as parts for them can be purchased at most auto parts stores. Our store offers a more profitable solution that will make Mazda repair 323 more profitable.

The PORT3 store offers you more than 3 thousand types of components that will help you carry out repair and restoration work on a Mazda 323 of any configuration and modification in the shortest possible time.

Unlike most suppliers, we sell a full range of goods related to maintenance, namely:

• Auto parts

From us you can buy original and non-original spare parts By favorable prices for Mazda 323 of all generations. The site is equipped with a modern search form, which makes it possible to place an order for the required part in a matter of minutes.

• Consumables

“PORT3” sells glow plugs, spark plugs, belts, pads, filters and other “consumables” for Mazda 323.

• Body parts

From us you can buy a hood, mirror, fender, bumper and other auto parts related to the external structure of the car.

We offer high-quality components and all the necessary information support. Our experienced specialists can help you purchase spare parts in minutes and answer all your questions.

Auto parts wholesale

We work with both retail customers and wholesale customers. Cooperation on a contractual basis, flexible pricing policy and an individual approach to each customer will allow your component store, service station or car club to receive all the necessary spare parts in a timely manner affordable prices and in a short time.

The first generation Mazda 323 was introduced in 1963. Back then it was a nondescript golf car with rear-wheel drive, which, nevertheless, marked the beginning of a whole family. The second generation Mazda 323 appeared only in 1980 and already had front-wheel drive. We didn’t have to wait long for the third version; this model debuted in 1985. Starting from the 80s, new generations of Mazda 323 appeared every 4-5 years, and besides, during this time the cars managed to undergo some upgrades.

In 1989, the “fourth” Mazda 323 was introduced. They decided to give individuality to all modifications of this generation - each was awarded a completely original exterior and interior, although the technical “stuffing” of the cars remained identical. The fourth generation Mazda 323 was equipped with an engine that, with a volume of 1.8 liters, produced 185 hp.

A successful idea was developed during the creation of subsequent generations of this model.

The fifth generation Mazda 323 (BA) was produced from 1994 to 1998. Over the four years of production, the car underwent three modernizations. The first version was released from April 1994 to August 1995. These cars retained the old control panel, inherited from the previous Mazda 323. The second generation Mazda 323 BA (produced from August 1995 to October 1996) received a more modern and convenient center console and a new logo in the form of a Lotus icon (previously there was a diamond). Well, the latest versions of the Mazda 323 BA were produced from October 1996 to June 1998. Their emblem began to look like a flying bird, slightly different mirrors appeared, an additional brake light, the dashboard was replaced, etc.

The fifth generation was presented in three versions: a 5-door hatchback, a sedan and a 3-door hatchback. The pseudo-sporty style of the Mazda 323 was emphasized by all sorts of little things. For example, the doors were made without top frames. The bumpers were painted the same color as the body, which certainly made the car look more attractive.

Mazda 323 model 1994-1998 had excellent corrosion resistance. The interior of the cabin was made with high quality and soundness. The trunk volume is small, but thanks to the reclining rear seat, you can transport long items.

The fifth generation Mazda 323 was equipped with the following range power units. Gasoline engines there were four pieces. The weakest of them has a volume of 1.4 liters. and power 73 hp. This engine was installed only on 3-door cars and sedans, but the most common 5-door hatchbacks did not have them.

The 1.5-liter engine producing 88 hp looked more natural on the Mazda 323. A 1.8-liter unit (114 hp) and an exotic 2.0-liter V6 engine, which in most cases produced 144 hp, were also offered.

There were two diesels. Atmospheric volume 2.0 l. (71 hp) and a 1.7-liter turbocharged engine with 82 hp.

Most fifth-generation Mazda 323s are equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, although there are cars with automatic transmissions. Both gearboxes are reliable

There are no complaints about the braking system (there are discs in the front, and usually drums in the rear, although 2-liter models have discs everywhere).

In 2001, the 1998 model underwent some technical and cosmetic changes, in other words, restyling.

The new Mazda 323 has acquired a nice and proportional appearance. The front part began to look more predatory and expressive, thanks to accentuated ribs on the hood, smoothly transitioning into the frame of the false radiator grille, and a raised bumper with an integrated spoiler. The exterior is decorated with “crystal” headlights, foglights, a chrome crossbar and a large corporate logo.

The interior is light and spacious. The light-colored materials used are pleasant to the touch and look quite expensive. The interior is without any special frills, but is made of very high quality both in materials and in the fit of panels, which gives it solidity, creating a feeling of more high class. It is enhanced by imitation ebony inserts on the center console and in the doors, chrome door handles, as well as a steering wheel and gear lever trimmed in perforated leather.

All controls are at hand. Dashboard It is not overloaded with unnecessary information and is easy to read. The driver's seat has four mechanical adjustments: length, backrest angle, cushion angle and height, which allows you to quickly select the optimal fit. Comfort was also taken care of, for example, the back of the front passenger seat folds forward, forming a comfortable table with two profiled cup holders; between the seats there is a convenient box-armrest, two cup holders, a spacious glove compartment, and standard “music”.

The trunk is not particularly large - 415 liters, but there is a full-size spare wheel there.

There have also been changes in the range of engines. The 1.5-liter 88-horsepower unit was replaced by a 1.6-liter 98-horsepower engine. And instead of a 1.8-liter engine, the 323 was equipped with a 2-liter 131-horsepower engine, which was previously available only for the 626 model. The 2-liter turbodiesel has also gained horsepower - now it has 101 of them, 11 more. And they abandoned atmospheric diesel altogether. Only the smallest 72-horsepower 1.3-liter engine remained unchanged.

The Mazda 323 confidently follows a straight line even at speeds close to maximum. The brakes are quite effective. ABS works in conjunction with the distribution system braking forces(EBD) and electronic system stabilization (TCS).

In short, the 323 will provide you with comfort, ease of use, spacious and comfortable salon, a fairly spacious trunk will ensure a confident ride. She is well laid out, responsive to the controls, easy to handle and equipped with quality and efficient engines.

Nowadays, the Mazda 323 model is no longer in the model range - it has been replaced by a car with the shorter name Mazda 3.