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|image=[[Image:1992_MX3_V6_24V.jpg|250px|1992 Mazda MX3]]
|image=[[Image:1992_MX3_V6_24V.jpg|250px|1992 Mazda MX3]]

Revision as of 18:03, 9 March 2007

Mazda MX-3
1992 Mazda MX3
Overview
ManufacturerMazda
Also calledMazda Precidia
Eunos 30X
Eunos Presso
Autozam AZ-3
Mazda AZ-3
Production1992–1998
AssemblyHiroshima, Japan
Body and chassis
ClassSport compact
Body style3-door hatchback
LayoutFF layout
PlatformMazda EC platform
RelatedMazda Familia/Mazda Protegé
Mazda Kabura
Powertrain
Engine1.6 L I4 SOHC
1.6 L I4 DOHC
1.8 L V6 DOHC
Transmission5-speed manual
4-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase96.7 in
Length165.7 in
Width66.7 in
Height50.4 in
USDM Mazda MX-3
Customized Mazda MX-3

The Mazda MX-3 was a four-seat hatchback produced from September 1991 to 1998. The MX-3 was based on the EC platform.


Engine

The MX-3 came with two engine options — a 1.6 L I4 and 1.8 L V6. The straight-4 was available in two versions, an 66kW (88hp) SOHC B6-ME unit which powered 1992 and 1993 models, or a 79kW (106hp) DOHC/16-valve B6-D unit which was found in 1994 and later models. The more powerful DOHC 24-valve V6 K8-DE produced 101kW (135hp) and was available with an optional automatic. There have been many cases of GS owners upgrading the engine to a 2.5 L V6 (either a North American-spec 125kW (168hp) KLDE or the Japanese-spec 150kW (199hp) KLZE found in such vehicles as the Efini MS-8, Xedos 9, & Eunos 800). Upgrading to this engine size added the unofficial GSR trim to the MX-3. The 4-cyl RS could be modified to fit the BP, B6T or BP-T engine. Either of these engine modifications gave the added performance comparable to many modern sport cars, a popular enhancement among MX-3 enthusiasts.

Performance

The MX-3 was marketed as the Mazda MX-3 Precidia in Canada, the Eunos 30X in Australia, and as the Eunos Presso, Autozam AZ-3 and Mazda AZ-3 in Japan.

The MX-3 is notable for having one of the lowest displacement V6 engines ever fitted to a production vehicle, with a 1.8 L V6.

It had a top speed of approximately 219 km/h (136 mph). The MX-3 GS could accelerate from 0-100 km/h (60 mph) in 8.5 seconds, the MX3 RS FL made it close below 10 seconds, and could travel a quarter mile in 16.7 seconds. With a turning rate of 0.89 g (8.7 m/s²), its handling capabilities were one of the best in its class.

The V6 engine was impressive for the time, belonging to the Mazda K-series, which were used in a range of Mazda vehicles. These engines were designed to be smooth, very long lasting, and hold a high torque across the RPM range. These engines used a variable length intake manifold (VLIM), in order to provide optimal torque using intake resonance. Mazda called their system on the MX-3 the "Variable Resonance Induction System" (VRIS). This engine had a 7000 rpm redline, and a 7800 rpm fuel cutoff.

The MX-3 used Mazda's proprietary Twin-Trapezoidal Link (TTL) for the rear suspension. It passively allowed the rear wheels to turn slightly in order to enhance handling. It has been used on a range of Mazda vehicles, providing a smooth ride, yet delivering responsive handling while minimizing body lean.

In 1993, Mazda Canada offered a limited Special Edition model of its Mazda MX-3 GS to celebrate the company's 25th year in Canada. At the same time, Mazda USA offered a similar model as a Special Edition as well. Only a total of 2,000 Special Edition models were supposedly made. The special edition MX-3 featured the V6 engine, leather interior (including seats, steering wheel and shift knob), heated seats (Canada only), and custom Enkei manufactured 15 inch alloy wheels. Most special edition models came in the color Raspberry Metallic; however, there were also Blaze Red and Brilliant Black colors available for the Special Edition.

Future Model

File:Mazda Kabura 2.jpg
Mazda Kabura Concept - front view

Since the final discontinuation of the Mazda MX-3, many enthusiasts continuously hope for a return of the MX-3 model. Mazda has no plans to reintroduce the MX-3 specifically, but the upcoming Mazda MX-4 Kabura concept, planned for 2009, may win the over the hearts of current MX-3 enthusiast. The Kabura is said to borrow significant mechanical components from the Mazda Miata while the styling appears as a blend between the MX-3 and RX7.

Worldwide Associations

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