As in an '04 Mazda 3. Not sure yet which mill (2.0 or 2.3) it has- does either one have a better rep than the other? Both are interference engines correct? Was hoping it was a stick but it's auto oh well, 180k, pretty clean not all rusted out (for up here) asking $2500. Anything in particular to look for in this car? May be looking at it soon.
Based on your responses and how a potential deal may pan out, this may be a daily driver for a family member. Thanks in advance for your input.
2.0 and 2.3 are basically the same junk inside. 2.3 is a better starting point because it has the same deck height as a 2.5, which is a much better engine internally, so you can use the 2.3's timing cover to make the 2.5 bolt in.
Yes, they are all interference engines. No, they aren't worth digging into to repair unless you already own the car.
$2500 is a lot of money for a car that needs an engine, even up here where used cars seem overpriced compared to what people post from other parts. OTOH, pretty much all Mazda3s from that timeframe are either badly rusted or long gone fom the roads here, so that might carry enthusiast value, for whatever pervs are Mazda3 enthusiasts.
If it's a hatchback, it has the 2.3. The sedan could be 2.0 or 2.3. We really like our 04 hatchback, just rolled 149k miles, bought it about a year ago at 135k. Replaced shocks, struts, rear wheel bearings and repaired the AC. But all that was due to PO neglect and normal wear for the mileage.
Oh and ours was $3800 and has zero rust.
This was the sedan. And just received a text that it's sold so the hunt continues.
You'll need to log in to post.
