The 323 is very long lasting with care (Mazda 323 1.8i 16v Sport)

Member Name: alicia150

Product:	Mazda 323 1.8i 16v Sport
Date:	03/04/08 (144 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: reliable, good performer, easy to drive, nippy

Disadvantages: Always check service history

Performance
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Very good. Handled well on the road, quiet to drive.

Fuel consumption
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Was ok but dare to think what it must cost now with rising petrol prices!

Speed
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With injector engines, it can be very nippy at times. Overtaking on the motorways was fine, it handled this fairly well. Top speed I dare to say is fast enough; it cruises along just fine at 70mph on the motorway but can go faster if necessary (this car managed to achieve 6 penalty points for me!).

Reliability
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First class but you must get it serviced regularly. I just got the standard services done but tbh I should've really replaced the radiator quite some time ago.

*No issues with the parts, only fixes required were wear & tear like tyres, breaks and the exhaust.

Clutch
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*This car got me up to 85,000 miles without having to replace the clutch although by the time I came to trade it in, the clutch was on its last leg. Pretty good as some cars need clutch replaced sooner.

Major work done?
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Did have to get the main drive belt replaced at about 75,000 miles which was per the manufacturers recommended specifications.

Overall
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Very nice car to drive

Excellent value for money as didn't cost >£4000 secondhand and repair costs compared to some other makes were very low.

Very long lasting but keep getting it serviced on a regular basis.

It wasn't uncommon for the 323 to get up to 150,000 miles before the driver needed a new car. Only if the car was serviced every year or 10,000 miles though.

A little pointer
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I had an engine flush on each oil change which didn't cost much extra but was well worth it. Before my first engine flush, the car's engine felt slightly clogged but afterwards it almost felt like brand new to drive. Highly recommended to get this done especially if your car is older.

Summary: One of the best cars I've had

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