The Hidden Gem: A Well-Preserved Mazda 323
Hidden among the car graveyards of the world, there are occasional discoveries that leave car enthusiasts in awe. One such find is a Mazda 323, stumbled upon in a Northern California boneyard. Unlike many other vehicles in the graveyard, this Mazda stands out due to its impeccable condition and low mileage. With just 70,685 miles on the odometer, this 37-year-old car seems to have defied the wear and tear of time.
Upon closer inspection, it becomes evident that this Mazda has been well cared for. The lack of rust on its body and the unmarred paint suggest that it spent most of its life garaged. Remarkably, it appears to be in better condition than some five-year-old vehicles of its modern-day descendant, the Mazda3.
When this car was first introduced in 1987, it was positioned as one of the more affordable options in its era. The DX three-door hatchback model, just a step above the base 1983 Mazda 323, had an MSRP of $7,699, equivalent to about $21,752 in today’s dollars. Despite its affordability, this Mazda lacks some common features found in modern cars, such as air conditioning. It is also missing a tachometer and a right-side exterior mirror. Clearly, the original owner prioritized reliability and affordability over luxury and extras.
Though it is hard to determine if the pinstripes on the car were a factory option, it is likely that they were added by the owner after purchase. This attention to detail is consistent with the overall impression that this Mazda was a cherished possession.
The car’s history suggests that it was owned by an older driver who took meticulous care of it. The handwriting on a recent oil-change label, along with the unbroken chain of passed smog-check tests, indicates that the car was well-maintained and driven sparingly. Perhaps it was used for shorter commutes or occasional outings, explaining the relatively low mileage.
Under the hood, the Mazda 323 houses a 1.6-liter B-Series SOHC straight-four engine, equipped with electronic fuel injection. This engine, with its 82 horsepower and 92 pound-feet of torque, later found its way into the iconic Mazda Miata. The car is also equipped with a five-speed manual transmission, as automatics were costly and less fuel-efficient during the 1980s.
It is interesting to note that starting from the 1991 model year, the Ford Escort became a sibling to the Mazda 323, further solidifying the platform’s success and longevity in the automotive industry.
All things considered, this Mazda 323 serves as a testament to the durability and value of well-maintained older vehicles. Despite its age, it proves that a basic, reliable car can still turn heads and evoke admiration. So, why buy a Honda Civic or a Toyota Tercel when hidden gems like this Mazda 323 exist?
