Mazdaspeed 3, or others?

[cy]

Hi all,

I am sorta in the market for a new car, and I've was thinking about getting a 350Z or RX8 (a good used one in the $25k - 30k range). After realizing the Z will not be practical AT ALL, and the RX8 is pretty problematic, I decide that I should move onto other options..

So I was in my friend's Mazdaspeed 6 last night and was told that Mazdaspeed 3 shouldn't be overlooked. With the power, fun, look and the practical level, it looks like a pretty good bang for the bucks @ $30k~. He actually finds the msp3 to be a little quicker than his msp6 when he test drove it last week. With the 0% purchase finance coming from Mazda, it looks like it's a pretty hard to pass up on.

I know they've had some issues with their 07 where the engine mount was dropping and etc. How about now? What's your opinion? If not msp3, what other choice? I would not mind used at all as long as it doesn't have any "common major problem" (like the transmission on the rx8, etc..).

Cheers.

[camber]

Mazda seems to have sorted out the MSP3 issue of having the engine drop and grenade the entire drivetrain into metal bits:l People that launched those first production cars hard were in for a bit of suprise:lol:

They installed a stronger bolt in the engine mount and it seems to be holding.

IIRC The 2.3L turbo engines from Mazda were problematic when first released. Suffered from servere heat soak issues and only liked 93 octane and up gasoline to produced advertized power. I haven't heard any recent issues with these engines.

IMO, I'd rather get a WRX or new AWD turbo Lancer(non EVO). Although, I think Mazda sorted most of the big issues out of the MSP3. Mazda hasn't had a great history of reliability with their intial releases of "performance" cars ie. MSP6, RX-8, MSP3.

Personally, I just stay away from currrent Mazda cars. Although, I really like how the RX-8 drives..

[M-e-X-x]

definitely not a bad choice for practicality... and the finance rates are definitely a big point to consider... just myself i hear too many horror stories of mazdas... but then i hear some success stories...

[cy]

Mazda seems to have sorted out the MSP3 issue of having the engine drop and grenade the entire drivetrain into metal bits:l People that launched those first production cars hard were in for a bit of suprise:lol:

They installed a stronger bolt in the engine mount and it seems to be holding.

IIRC The 2.3L turbo engines from Mazda were problematic when first released. Suffered from servere heat soak issues and only liked 93 octane and up gasoline to produced advertized power. I haven't heard any recent issues with these engines.

IMO, I'd rather get a WRX or new AWD turbo Lancer(non EVO). Although, I think Mazda sorted most of the big issues out of the MSP3. Mazda hasn't had a great history of reliability with their intial releases of "performance" cars ie. MSP6, RX-8, MSP3.

Personally, I just stay away from currrent Mazda cars. Although, I really like how the RX-8 drives..

Thanks for the advice. Is the AWD Lancer out yet? I don't see it on their website yet (The EVO looks quite hot ;)).

[lumlum1013]

Hi all,

I am sorta in the market for a new car, and I've was thinking about getting a 350Z or RX8 (a good used one in the $25k - 30k range). After realizing the Z will not be practical AT ALL, and the RX8 is pretty problematic, I decide that I should move onto other options..

So I was in my friend's Mazdaspeed 6 last night and was told that Mazdaspeed 3 shouldn't be overlooked. With the power, fun, look and the practical level, it looks like a pretty good bang for the bucks @ $30k~. He actually finds the msp3 to be a little quicker than his msp6 when he test drove it last week. With the 0% purchase finance coming from Mazda, it looks like it's a pretty hard to pass up on.

I know they've had some issues with their 07 where the engine mount was dropping and etc. How about now? What's your opinion? If not msp3, what other choice? I would not mind used at all as long as it doesn't have any "common major problem" (like the transmission on the rx8, etc..).

Cheers.

yeah, your friend is right about overlookin' at the MS3....
I must agree that MS3 is alot quicker on a roll..but will
not beat MS6 @ the lights (stock vs stock)....cuz mainly the AWD.
then again, i wish my MS6 was a hatch/sport hatch....
i love my P5's trunk....very very practical...oh well..

correct me if i'm wrong, WRX suffers the huge body roll where
MS3 has very very good handlin'

Youtube new scooby (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jmYnA7iGMoU)

but Subarus are known to
have one of the greatest AWD system in the auto industry, very reliable as well,
where as MS3's reliablity is still not up there...however,
they did fix the motor mount issues on there 08 models

i know there is still a dealership (or more) that still have MS6 for sale..
@ a very good price...under $30k perhaps.

you maybe lucky if you can test drive a MS3 or MS6 at the dealership,
cuz they are equipped w/ OEM Summer Super Sticky Tires... very
dangerous on winter roads tho...

[cy]

yeah, your friend is right about overlookin' at the MS3....
I must agree that MS3 is alot quicker on a roll..but will
not beat MS6 @ the lights (stock vs stock)....cuz mainly the AWD.
then again, i wish my MS6 was a hatch/sport hatch....
i love my P5's trunk....very very practical...oh well..

correct me if i'm wrong, WRX suffers the huge body roll where
MS3 has very very good handlin'

Youtube new scooby (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jmYnA7iGMoU)

but Subarus are known to
have one of the greatest AWD system in the auto industry, very reliable as well,
where as MS3's reliablity is still not up there...however,
they did fix the motor mount issues on there 08 models

i know there is still a dealership (or more) that still have MS6 for sale..
@ a very good price...under $30k perhaps.

you maybe lucky if you can test drive a MS3 or MS6 at the dealership,
cuz they are equipped w/ OEM Summer Super Sticky Tires... very
dangerous on winter roads tho...

Thanks. Do you know which dealership in particular that might still have some MS6?

[lumlum1013]

Thanks. Do you know which dealership in particular that might still have some MS6?


one black unit in scarboro mazda....when i bought my 07 back in late 06,
i was offered to buy their 06 demo for $28k OTR.....
but i didn't take their offer, so that is y i think the unit that they
have on their lot should be around $30k.....or less

(i doubt it's the same unit that was offered to me FYI)

[cy]

one black unit in scarboro mazda....when i bought my 07 back in late 06,
i was offered to buy their 06 demo for $28k OTR.....
but i didn't take their offer, so that is y i think the unit that they
have on their lot should be around $30k.....or less

(i doubt it's the same unit that was offered to me FYI)

Oh my, $28k OTR. I shall go check it out!

[Andro]

I was looking at Mazdaspeed 3 too, however i came to conclusion that it's not for me. Some cars that i was interested after where VW GTI and MINI Cooper S, yes they might be slower but they are much more refined and way better fuel efficiency. However once i saw MINI S my choice was made right there and then. Depending on your needs it's a great car, and has most driver and front passenger space out of the 3.......yeah i know, i didn't expect it either. Passengers in the back would have to struggle though. Oh and each MINI is also custom made for you, you can basically change almost everything you want in it. And IMO it has the best interior/exterior, you have to see the gadgets inside the car. One of the drawback it's kinda pricey, but it's deffinately worth it. Also it's great on gas: 5.8L/highway, 7.7/city (manual). The fit and finish is amazing inside and out, it looks like it was actually hand made. Can't wait for it to arrive :D

[thephenom]

For new, I guess you can try the following:
1. MS3
2. VW GTI/GLI/2.0T
3. Mini Cooper S
4. Civic Si
5. Volvo C30 T5
6. SRT-4
7. Cobalt SS
8. IS250 RWD
9. Altima Coupe 6spd
10. Accord Couple 6spd

6-7 will probably not handled as well, 8-10 will probably be more of a "cruiser" than a racer, 1-4 is probably on top of the list.

MS3 will probably be the fastest out of the whole list as well as one of the best handlers. Cooper S is nice also, RWD handling, good peppy engine, but the options can add up REALLY quickly, and add on expensive financing. The VW 2.0T is a really nice engine, good lowend torque, power doesn't drop off as much compared to the MS3's 2.3T, I like their suspension setup, stiff enough but still comfortable to ride in. The VWs have also dropped their prices for 2008 to adjust for higher CDN dollar. Si lacks a lot of power on the low end, but if you like high revving engine, vtec sounds really hot when the 2nd cam kicks in, nice suspension setup, but definitely not as fast as MS3, financing isn't too bad, $26.6k car with 1.9% financing for 48 mnths.

IS250 base price is $30k, probably one of the "slowest" car on the list, but you do get lexus quality. Altima 3.5 Coupe, nice VQ35 engine, but it'll forever be a poorman's G35. Accord V6 Coupe 6MT, smooth V6 with good torque and power.

I'd say give all at least top 4 on the list a test drive and see which you like the most. For the MS3, just remember it's a fairly limited production model, so parts for those car will be more rare/scarce than the others and possibly cost more since Mazda are generally known for more expensive parts comparing to the others.

[malaco0219]

Cy,

It appears you're looking for a sports car more or less. I definitely recommened Speed 3. Without a doubt, best bang for its bucks. Most issues should be fixed, good aftermarket support for mazda. Might you also consider GTI, they start 28K. Great aftermarket support as well. Both cars are practical and speedy. GTI has DSG if you wanted auto. A chip can easily bring it to 250 with PPC, and you'll pretty much be on par with the Speed 3 as well. You can even revert to default program if you needed to bring it in to warranty work.

www.eurosporttuning.ca

Good luck.

[beerbaron105]

former owner of a cobalt ss/sc, i test drove a mazdaspeed 3 and fell in love with it, probably twice as fast as my cobalt, and way nicer to drive, everything about it was 10000% better.

much quicker then the speed 6, although probably not as refined.

when i am in the market for a new car, probably in another year or so im definitely going to have the speed 3 up there, i also wanted to test drive the caliber srt-4, although i doubt it will match the speed3 in refinement and interior

[malaco0219]

former owner of a cobalt ss/sc, i test drove a mazdaspeed 3 and fell in love with it, probably twice as fast as my cobalt, and way nicer to drive, everything about it was 10000% better.

much quicker then the speed 6, although probably not as refined.

when i am in the market for a new car, probably in another year or so im definitely going to have the speed 3 up there, i also wanted to test drive the caliber srt-4, although i doubt it will match the speed3 in refinement and interior

You should check road and track. If I recall correctly, theres an article about those two cars.

[beerbaron105]

Thanks for the advice. Is the AWD Lancer out yet? I don't see it on their website yet (The EVO looks quite hot ;)).

evo is sexy too, but christ 50k for a loaded one!

[beerbaron105]

You should check road and track. If I recall correctly, theres an article about those two cars.

link for the lazy? lol

wait here: http://www.roadandtrack.com/article.asp?section_id=31&article_id=6293

[weedb0y]

former owner of a cobalt ss/sc, i test drove a mazdaspeed 3 and fell in love with it, probably twice as fast as my cobalt, and way nicer to drive, everything about it was 10000% better.

much quicker then the speed 6, although probably not as refined.

when i am in the market for a new car, probably in another year or so im definitely going to have the speed 3 up there, i also wanted to test drive the caliber srt-4, although i doubt it will match the speed3 in refinement and interior

Hows the handling on the Cobalt? I am experienced with Grand AM, Sunfire, Integra and RSX. Anything comparable to the Acuras?

Or are we talking faster sunfire? lol

[beerbaron105]

Hows the handling on the Cobalt? I am experienced with Grand AM, Sunfire, Integra and RSX. Anything comparable to the Acuras?

Or are we talking faster sunfire? lol

it is eons ahead of a sunfire, but still lacked compared to imports, i had the 2005 model, im sure the later ones had issues fixed, but overall id probably stick with imports when it comes to the compact market

[cy]

Thanks for all the advice.

I dropped by the Mazda dealership today, but their demo MSP3 was stuck in the snow, so could't test drive it ;) I will go back in a couple days as I am only 2 mins away from the Finch + Markham rd one.

I like the interior of the MS3 alot, and as much as it doesn't look too "agreesive", I do like the hood/grill/skirts/wings that made it look very sporty. I can't wait until I hear it roar!

[beerbaron105]

just throwing this out there, but what about the rx-8? its not quite as fast, but i've always loved the look, in and out, not too experienced with the rotary, i have heard horror stories, but mostly with the older generations.

how bad is the fuel economy, ive heard its terrible! lol

[Dragons4Life]

Finch&Markham is called Agincourt Mazda =D Biggest Mazda dealership heh.

Should look into, the Suabru WRX (Hatch) bit more expensive, but its a subaru lol. I think it looks ugly, but you may give it a thought.

[cy]

just throwing this out there, but what about the rx-8? its not quite as fast, but i've always loved the look, in and out, not too experienced with the rotary, i have heard horror stories, but mostly with the older generations.

how bad is the fuel economy, ive heard its terrible! lol

I did think about it, even picking up a used one and it'll only hit me with close to $20k. However with the problems with their transmissions and engine, I would like to take a pass. I am not any racer/ricer, just want a reliable and fun car to drive! ;)

[malaco0219]

I did think about it, even picking up a used one and it'll only hit me with close to $20k. However with the problems with their transmissions and engine, I would like to take a pass. I am not any racer/ricer, just want a reliable and fun car to drive! ;)

Wanna add as well, RX-8 isnt practical, very little room

[ShadowVlican]

+1 i'd totally take the mazdaspeed3 over the rx8 for a daily driver anyday

[lonelydriver]

wait for the new lancer ralliart. a poorman's evo

http://www.canadiandriver.com/thenews/2008/03/09/mitsubishi-announces-turbocharged-lancer-ralliart.htm

[FD3S]

Wanna add as well, RX-8 isnt practical, very little room

The rx8 is the most roomy in it's class IMO..

I rx8 however is not for the OP from the sounds of it

I highly suggest the MS3 for what the OP is looking for.

VW still has issues with reliability

[trueno92]

omg battle of the fanboi-isms.............

[cy]

omg battle of the fanboi-isms.............

No, don't stir up stuff in my thread. Create your own thread for your own garbage comment.

I am open to ALL options and would LOVE to hear the pros and cons of each.

That ralliart looks hot. Any idea what the price point would be?

[bionicbadger]

used STi?

[ac328]

used STi?

Don't know about GTA, but here in Calgary you won't find any decent used STi's for 25-30k (OP's price range). Unless you head to the US.

Used WRX should be doable. Insurance might be problematic though.

[onecoolloser]

Insurance might be problematic though.

+1, insurance on STi's might be a lot.

I second the choice on the MS3. From what i've read, they're great cars, and they seem to be the best bang for the buck at the moment.

[Polaren]

No, don't stir up stuff in my thread. Create your own thread for your own garbage comment.

I am open to ALL options and would LOVE to hear the pros and cons of each.

That ralliart looks hot. Any idea what the price point would be?

Ralliart is expected around the $34K CAN range after speaking with the dealership.
Warranty is halved to 5/3/5 as well from their normal 10/5/5 warranty just like the Evo. Also their rates are pretty damn high...like 8+%

As for the MS3 it would be a good DD I'm sure. I test drove one before buying a subaru and I just couldn't stand the torque-steer and FWD aspect of the car as I was looking for something I can build performance wise and not have to worry about high hp FWD cars. It depends what you want to do with it in the end.

[Polaren]

+1, insurance on STi's might be a lot.

I second the choice on the MS3. From what i've read, they're great cars, and they seem to be the best bang for the buck at the moment.

My insurance on a STI is cheaper then on a MS3 figure that one out :lol:

[ac328]

I second the choice on the MS3. From what i've read, they're great cars, and they seem to be the best bang for the buck at the moment.

Probably agree.

If the OP is willing to take a (big) chance on reliability, the VW GTI might be worth a look too for around 30k.

[ac328]

As for the MS3 it would be a good DD I'm sure. I test drove one before buying a subaru and I just couldn't stand the torque-steer and FWD aspect of the car as I was looking for something I can build performance wise and not have to worry about high hp FWD cars. It depends what you want to do with it in the end.

+1 on high HP FWD cars. I just got a Subaru Outback turbo 5 speed manual, couldn't imagine this 243hp thing with FWD. I test drove an Acura TL with more HP than my Outback, wow, steering wheel was dancing in my hands!

[beerbaron105]

Ralliart is expected around the $34K CAN range after speaking with the dealership.
Warranty is halved to 5/3/5 as well from their normal 10/5/5 warranty just like the Evo. Also their rates are pretty damn high...like 8+%
.

is the km side of it cut in hallf too? thats a crappy warranty then : 50,000km bumper to bumper, 80k powertrain....

[Polaren]

is the km side of it cut in hallf too? thats a crappy warranty then : 50,000km bumper to bumper, 80k powertrain....

Normal is 10-Year 160'000\ 5-Year 100'00\5-Year Roadside Assistance
They said they halved it, I have no idea why. That's what the dealership stated and this is on one of their forms.

"Warranty coverage applies to new owners of new Model Year 2004 and 2004/5 vehicles sold on or after 10/25/2004 and all available Model Year 2005, 2006 , 2007 and 2008 vehicles.* Mitsubishi Motors 10/5/5 warranty not available on the 2008 Lancer Evolution. For specific warranty information on the 2008 Lancer Evolution, please visit your local Mitsubishi Dealer."

And Since the ralliart is essentially a downtuned evolution it falls under the same category.

[riskytrader]

At around 30k I'd opt for a BMW 1-series which is due out end of March. Base MSRP starts at 33900 and it has a v6 3.0 litre with 230 HP. Saw it the other day in the showroom and it looked really...more like the old e46 models than the fat bimmers they currently have as the 3-series. I test drove the mazdaspeed as well and I just prefer a v6 over a turbocharged engine anyday.

[beerbaron105]

http://cgi.ebay.ca/Mazda-Mazda3-2007-MAZDASPEED3-TURBO-10K-MILES-LIKE-NEW-CUSTOM-WHEELS_W0QQitemZ250224803813QQihZ015QQcategoryZ841 58QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem


just over 20k CDN and only 10k miles

[cy]

Thank you for everyone's advices. I do not plan on modding the car (hopefully), so what it brings to me now is more important than what it brings to me "in the end". I think I will take a pass on the RalliArt Lancer as the price is out of my budget and the interest rate instantly killed the deal.

http://cgi.ebay.ca/Mazda-Mazda3-2007-MAZDASPEED3-TURBO-10K-MILES-LIKE-NEW-CUSTOM-WHEELS_W0QQitemZ250224803813QQihZ015QQcategoryZ841 58QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem


just over 20k CDN and only 10k miles

THanks for the link. I actually saw that before, and I found out that Mazda warranty is totally void in Canada. Otherwise I would go and pick that up in a heart beat without any financing!

Just saw a MSP3 today on road, and I think i am half sold. I still have to wait to test drive one hopefully in the next few days to make my decision.

Cheers.

[bpopd]

whats wrong with a 350z?

[trueno92]

No, don't stir up stuff in my thread. Create your own thread for your own garbage comment.

I am open to ALL options and would LOVE to hear the pros and cons of each.

That ralliart looks hot. Any idea what the price point would be?

at the end of the day, go with the car YOU want.
i don't really understand the point of reaching out to the internet for ppls OPINIONS on what they think is best, but in the end, you listen to your friends opinions over ppls over the net and ultimately, you will buy something that
1. you want
or
2. your friends want you to have since you can't make your own decision yourself.

list out what you want in your car, practicality (the ability to carry things other than 1 passenger) how much do you drive in a week?

sounds like a sporty car to show off to friends. you never mentioned anything about maintenance or gas mileage to be any of your concerns, nevermind insurance, so i guess those will be 'paid' (thanks mom & dad!)

unfortunately, ALL these comments in this thread are going to be garbage because you decisions are going to be made on how the car will make YOU feel and how you feel will be judged on how your friends will look at you, hence buy that car that is most popular with your friends.

if you wanted a car that ppls opinions actually made a difference upon, then you would be considering other aspects than just looks and HP. i mean, how did you manage to compare a mazdaspeed 3 to an rx-8 to a 350z? a two door coupe, a 2 and 1/2 door coupe and a 5 door?
why no hondas? no germans?

[Flojd]

THanks for the link. I actually saw that before, and I found out that Mazda warranty is totally void in Canada. Otherwise I would go and pick that up in a heart beat without any financing!


Not sure where does the information that the Mazda warranty is void in Canada come from? According to APA it is valid:
http://www.apa.ca/template.asp?DocID=253

I remember reading some old posts in forums about successful imports of RX-8, so most likely the warranty is not void. Need to check with the Mazda head office cause savings are significant.

[Dixon007]

i love threads like this. OP asks about a certain car and everybody says get this instead or that. its better.

[Andro]

if you wanted a car that ppls opinions actually made a difference upon, then you would be considering other aspects than just looks and HP. i mean, how did you manage to compare a mazdaspeed 3 to an rx-8 to a 350z? a two door coupe, a 2 and 1/2 door coupe and a 5 door?
why no hondas? no germans?

How did you manage to compare Hondas to Germans? are you trying to compare German people to Honda cars, or are you trying to compare Honda cars to German cars?

I guess OP was going the same route as yourself.

[weedb0y]

How did you manage to compare Hondas to Germans? are you trying to compare German people to Honda cars, or are you trying to compare Honda cars to German cars?

I guess OP was going the same route as yourself.

wth are you talking about? He is obviously asking if the guy is comparing CARS?

[Andro]

wth are you talking about? He is obviously asking if the guy is comparing CARS?

He is obviously jumping on OP for comparing different car classes, however failed to identify what he tries to compare himself. I was just trying to make a point, you'd see it if you were to read his post completely. To break it down even further: I was trying to say that there was really no point to jump on OP's comparison choices, it's his choice.

[cy]

at the end of the day, go with the car YOU want.
i don't really understand the point of reaching out to the internet for ppls OPINIONS on what they think is best, but in the end, you listen to your friends opinions over ppls over the net and ultimately, you will buy something that
1. you want
or
2. your friends want you to have since you can't make your own decision yourself.

list out what you want in your car, practicality (the ability to carry things other than 1 passenger) how much do you drive in a week?

sounds like a sporty car to show off to friends. you never mentioned anything about maintenance or gas mileage to be any of your concerns, nevermind insurance, so i guess those will be 'paid' (thanks mom & dad!)

unfortunately, ALL these comments in this thread are going to be garbage because you decisions are going to be made on how the car will make YOU feel and how you feel will be judged on how your friends will look at you, hence buy that car that is most popular with your friends.

if you wanted a car that ppls opinions actually made a difference upon, then you would be considering other aspects than just looks and HP. i mean, how did you manage to compare a mazdaspeed 3 to an rx-8 to a 350z? a two door coupe, a 2 and 1/2 door coupe and a 5 door?
why no hondas? no germans?

Few points:
1) Read my info and see my occupation, I strongly thing I am financial well enough to afford a msp3 myself, with insurance, and gas if that's what you are concerned about. Sorry to bust your bubble, I do not get a penny from my parents, and bought my own condo in last May.

2) I love cars, and by all means, I am not an expert AT ALL. I would like different input in regards to potential issues that I might not be aware of. What i was seeing is really just appearance but nothing else. While people here are being very helpful, you are throwing that garbage fanboy stuff around, trying to stir up crap in the thread?

3) I don't feel that I need to explain to you about my choice of cars, but just to make you feel better - those are cars that are shortlisted out of a list that I had. If you are not smart enough to notice it, they are all sports car. That adds another reason why you should just get out of this thread with the sudden comment like "omg battle of the fanboi-isms......". I like the choices that I have, and to be honest, most of my friends told me not to get any one of them. Unfortunately that's what you wish you can afford to do, but not me. I buy a car for my own pleasure, and my gf will be driving it when she feels like as well. I would have to guess that you are one of those Initial D "fan boi" that wish you have $5k to spend on a 20 years old Tureno. Grow up kid, this is not a thread where you belong I hate to say that.

4) Anymore useless comments are welcome via PM. I would not like to waste everyone's effort for trying to make this into a useful thread for discussing different option for buying a car (and helping me out).


Flojd, I swear I found the page that said Mazda warranty isn't valid in Canada! I am trying to locate it now. However, it's great great news if that's true!

[cy]

whats wrong with a 350z?

Nothing wrong, very hot car, I still love it alot! However, I find it not practical enough, that's all. ;) It was my "dream car" for a while long before I could afford it. However, when it comes to the time that you need to pull money out of your pocket, you tend to think more deeply hehe.

[mr_raider]

I would think long and hard about buying FWD car with that much power. It can be a nightmare to keep the wheels on the road, especially in slippery conditions. My Sentra SE-R only puts out 170hp and it can be quite handful. The older GMs with supercharged 3800s (GTP, etc...) were also a mess. My opinion is that anything with more than 200ft-lbs of torque would be better off as RWD or AWD.

[Andro]

I would think long and hard about buying FWD car with that much power. It can be a nightmare to keep the wheels on the road, especially in slippery conditions. My Sentra SE-R only puts out 170hp and it can be quite handful. The older GMs with supercharged 3800s (GTP, etc...) were also a mess. My opinion is that anything with more than 200ft-lbs of torque would be better off as RWD or AWD.

MS3 has some sort of slip control, so when it engages in first 3 gears i believe it does not engage all of the power right away. If you read some reviews they actually said that torque steer is not that noticiable in MS3. Overall it's a nice choice, but fuel efficiency is not very good.

[M-e-X-x]

F3) I don't feel that I need to explain to you about my choice of cars, but just to make you feel better - those are cars that are shortlisted out of a list that I had. If you are not smart enough to notice it, they are all sports car. That adds another reason why you should just get out of this thread with the sudden comment like "omg battle of the fanboi-isms......". I like the choices that I have, and to be honest, most of my friends told me not to get any one of them. Unfortunately that's what you wish you can afford to do, but not me. I buy a car for my own pleasure, and my gf will be driving it when she feels like as well. I would have to guess that you are one of those Initial D "fan boi" that wish you have $5k to spend on a 20 years old Tureno. Grow up kid, this is not a thread where you belong I hate to say that.


he's definitely not a 'kid' that's for sure.. and trueno92's car will rape any of those u mentioned on the shortlist... (don't let his username fool u)

also, i don't see how a msp3 is a 'sports' car when sports cars are at least rwd...

[Polaren]

MS3 has some sort of slip control, so when it engages in first 3 gears i believe it does not engage all of the power right away. If you read some reviews they actually said that torque steer is not that noticiable in MS3. Overall it's a nice choice, but fuel efficiency is not very good.

Torque steer is quite noticeable if you actually drive it, it is better then other cars for sure, but essentially it is equivalent to a SRT-4 in that department. But I am sure the OP is not really concerned with taking corners quickly and going to WOT right away as per his posts.

he's definitely not a 'kid' that's for sure.. and trueno92's car will rape any of those u mentioned on the shortlist... (don't let his username fool u)

also, i don't see how a msp3 is a 'sports' car when sports cars are at least rwd...

I know how much that last statement is true(sports cars aren't FWD), but you are just nitpicking at his posts now.

[MP3_SKY]

he's definitely not a 'kid' that's for sure.. and trueno92's car will rape any of those u mentioned on the shortlist... (don't let his username fool u)

also, i don't see how a msp3 is a 'sports' car when sports cars are at least rwd...

We don't care who drive what car, the OP is looking for his new car and asking others about experiences and suggestions. Although he is the one who make the decision and not any of us here, but any constructive posts will help the OP to make his decision.

Sports cars are at least RWD, may I ask where is this statement comes from?
So a Trueno is better sport car because it's RWD and it can drfit? :lol:

[cy]

he's definitely not a 'kid' that's for sure.. and trueno92's car will rape any of those u mentioned on the shortlist... (don't let his username fool u)

also, i don't see how a msp3 is a 'sports' car when sports cars are at least rwd...

Bottom line is, I don't see how he should stirring up crap whether he dives a school bus or a Ferrari. Sure, rape any of the car I have shortlisted, but I am sure there are many that can too - including a decked out 400hp ricer civic. Having that said, I would respect everyone's comment even though they don't own a car (thank you for your input too in the first page m-e-x-x). I don't think driving a better car (if that's what he's thinking) can enable him to call others "fan-boi".

While I do agree most sports cars (if not all) are RWD, I think it is not fair to not classify the msp3 at least half a sports car based on it's performance ;). Let's just keep this thread healthy and let it go on. Let tureno live in his own lala land.

I have communicated with the sales person today, should be able to go by on saturday to check things out. Hopefully we can work out a decent price on it too!

[mr_raider]

MS3 has some sort of slip control, so when it engages in first 3 gears i believe it does not engage all of the power right away. If you read some reviews they actually said that torque steer is not that noticiable in MS3. Overall it's a nice choice, but fuel efficiency is not very good.

It's not torque steer I'm worried about. It's the ability to keep the wheels from spinning at full throttle. This will hamper your launches and reduce your 0-60 times. If there is a system that dampens the power, that's fine, but you are essentially robbing the power of the engine, defeating the purpose of getting a car that powerful.

If never intend to drag race from a stop, that's fine, since a rolling start will give better traction. Nevetheless, even at high way speeds if you jam the accelerator you can induce some wheel hop.

None if this is an issue in daily driving, except driving uphill in snow.

How does it compare pricewise to an Impreza?

[Andro]

How does it compare pricewise to an Impreza?

it's cheaper then WRX Impreza, and IMO looks much better then new Imprezas.

[thephenom]

MS3 has some sort of slip control, so when it engages in first 3 gears i believe it does not engage all of the power right away. If you read some reviews they actually said that torque steer is not that noticiable in MS3. Overall it's a nice choice, but fuel efficiency is not very good.

MS3 has LSD, but that's really meant for wheelspin in corners, 1st and 2nd gear are locked at a lower hp (~200hp rather than 263hp) to provide some sane acceleration.

he's definitely not a 'kid' that's for sure.. and trueno92's car will rape any of those u mentioned on the shortlist... (don't let his username fool u)

also, i don't see how a msp3 is a 'sports' car when sports cars are at least rwd...
So you're telling me a FWD that can go around the track faster than a RWD is not a sports car just because it's FWD? Does the MS6 make a better sports car because it's 4WD instead of FWD? :rolleyes:

As much as FWD isn't the best platform for high hp sports car, the MS3 doesn't put down that much power, and with a proper chassis and suspension setup, its torque steer isn't bad at all. Just because a car is FWD, it doesn't mean you can't tune it to be good around the bends. Cars like MS3 were tuned at the Nurbergring much like other sports car, that's pretty impressive for Mazda to spend the time and money to tune a $30k car.

In the sports compact class, I don't see any car in its price range that can beat the MS3. The 130i will probably be better in performance, but I highly doubt we'll see a 130i with a low 30s price tag.

[i3_dawg]

+1 I totally agree, if the car is fwd doesnt meen it isnt a sports car.

MS3 has LSD, but that's really meant for wheelspin in corners, 1st and 2nd gear are locked at a lower hp (~200hp rather than 263hp) to provide some sane acceleration.


So you're telling me a FWD that can go around the track faster than a RWD is not a sports car just because it's FWD? Does the MS6 make a better sports car because it's 4WD instead of FWD? :rolleyes:

As much as FWD isn't the best platform for high hp sports car, the MS3 doesn't put down that much power, and with a proper chassis and suspension setup, its torque steer isn't bad at all. Just because a car is FWD, it doesn't mean you can't tune it to be good around the bends. Cars like MS3 were tuned at the Nurbergring much like other sports car, that's pretty impressive for Mazda to spend the time and money to tune a $30k car.

In the sports compact class, I don't see any car in its price range that can beat the MS3. The 130i will probably be better in performance, but I highly doubt we'll see a 130i with a low 30s price tag.

[lumlum1013]

+1 as well! well explained!

MS3 has LSD, but that's really meant for wheelspin in corners, 1st and 2nd gear are locked at a lower hp (~200hp rather than 263hp) to provide some sane acceleration.


So you're telling me a FWD that can go around the track faster than a RWD is not a sports car just because it's FWD? Does the MS6 make a better sports car because it's 4WD instead of FWD? :rolleyes:

As much as FWD isn't the best platform for high hp sports car, the MS3 doesn't put down that much power, and with a proper chassis and suspension setup, its torque steer isn't bad at all. Just because a car is FWD, it doesn't mean you can't tune it to be good around the bends. Cars like MS3 were tuned at the Nurbergring much like other sports car, that's pretty impressive for Mazda to spend the time and money to tune a $30k car.

In the sports compact class, I don't see any car in its price range that can beat the MS3. The 130i will probably be better in performance, but I highly doubt we'll see a 130i with a low 30s price tag.

[P90Puma]

http://www.lotuselan.nl/img/elan-rood.jpg

Proof there exists at least ONE FWD sports car, the ITR (Integra Type R) is also consider a sports car by some.

I have ridden in a MS3, fun car. Might consider one as a DD in a few years.

[ShadowVlican]

it's cheaper then WRX Impreza, and IMO looks much better then new Imprezas.
not to mention it's also FASTER than the WRX (on tarmac anyways...)

who cares about it being a "true" sports car or whatever dumb name you want to call it

end result: mazdaspeed3 is the best buy in its class

btw good post, thephenom

[M-e-X-x]

So you're telling me a FWD that can go around the track faster than a RWD is not a sports car just because it's FWD? Does the MS6 make a better sports car because it's 4WD instead of FWD? :rolleyes:

at the end of the day, it's the driver that makes a car go around a track... regardless of the car's layout and tech... also, i can't think of any fwd race series out there...

clearly there's a fine split between those that believe a true sports car should be at least rwd and those that argue that fwd can also be deemed 'sports' cars (probably fwd 'sports' car owners themselves)...

so as cy has mentioned earlier, let's keep it on topic...

[thephenom]

at the end of the day, it's the driver that makes a car go around a track... regardless of the car's layout and tech... also, i can't think of any fwd race series out there...

clearly there's a fine split between those that believe a true sports car should be at least rwd and those that argue that fwd can also be deemed 'sports' cars (probably fwd 'sports' car owners themselves)...

so as cy has mentioned earlier, let's keep it on topic...
Please stop with your ignorance already. No sh*t it takes a good driver to be fast, but it also take a good car to be quick around a track, if you put a race car driver in a MS3, it WILL beat out some RWD and 4WD cars around the track even with the same race car driver driving those cars. A drive train does NOT classify a car class. If RWD is the basis of sports car, is a Merc S600 a sports car? :rolleyes:

Just because you don't pay attention to racing sports around the world doesn't mean there aren't FWD race cars out there. Here's a hint, TOURING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP. If you want a big one, FIA WTCC. You can look up what cars they race with. ;)

You can believe what you want, a sports car is a car that's designed for performance driving. While most are RWD or 4WD, nothing restricts a FWD to be a sports car. It's probably true that RWD can be potentially more fun to drive. And it's also true FWD will not be able to handle 500hp to the front wheels or 400hp for that matter, but the MS3 is damn capable to handle that 2.3L Turbo engine. Is it a HIGH-performance sports car? No, but it definitely falls in the category or a sports compact making it a sports car.

[Polaren]

A sport compact is not a sports car if you want to be technical. It is a sport compact..or a high performance version of a compact vehicle.
You will notice they have these different classifications for a reason, a drivetrain doesn't necessarily designate whether it is a sports car or not, but it does put it into different categories. Otherwise you are just arguing your own opinions.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sport_compact
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sport_car

Anyways, get back on topic.

[M-e-X-x]

Just because you don't pay attention to racing sports around the world doesn't mean there aren't FWD race cars out there. Here's a hint, TOURING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP. If you want a big one, FIA WTCC. You can look up what cars they race with. ;)

ah yes, BTCC, WTCC... stand corrected there... i watch WRC, F1, JGTC, usually

hmm.. remind me not to fight against fwd 'sport' lovers :lol:

[trueno92]

you guys are splitting hairs.

the fact of the matter is that, there is nill point in asking for an opinion on a car on any web forum. as predicted, the op is in strong favour to go with the car his friend has introduced into his aforementioned category of "Sports Car". It is obvious to the OP that horsepower = sports car. Nevermind the gross 3600 lbs of the 350z or the pisspoor torque numbers of the 13b rotor from the rx8. Its painfully obvious that the OP doesn't know anything about cars amd there was no need to restate that fact in his rebuttle - you look at buying a car like playing gran turismo.. oh wait, you don't know anything about cars? so i guess you play project gotham.

the fwd vs rwd debate. i like how the op mentions the 400hp ricer civic. Its so ironic how that doesn't classify as a sports car - it hasn't earned a place in his "sports car" justification. Yet it was that same proverbial 400hp ricer civic that single-handedly created the front-wheel-drive sports compact category. Its also that same "ricer" civic that paved the way to the refined chassis dynamics of the current gen civic, and satisfying driving spirit of the mazdaspeed3. FWD may still be considered to some to be a 'sporty' car but its popularity is increasing to the point that its kown that the current gen typeR civic is such a strong competitor on the track that it beats out its s2000 sibling and even previous gen nsx-R at tsukuba in well documented competition. Does this increasing popularity make the mazdaspeed3 the next "ricer" civic? im sure the OP is covering his eyes at the sight of that statement.

FWD is huge, its fun and its fast and i wouldn't be so quick to dismiss it, the problem is that most weekend-warriors (on this forum, not casc) can't comprehend how much harder it is on tires.. and that only makes a difference after your number of laps get into the double digits (DDT being the only possible exception, around the gta). I didn't need Eiji Yamada to tell me RWD was a clear choice to race teams but that FWD brings speed to the masses (BARC priviledges are great). Will the OP see the short-comings in the powertrain layouts? Probably, never - he won't get it to a track but its clear to him its still a "sports" car.

The OP had his decision made even before he wrote the post; his condo, his gf and *gasp* the fact that he did it all by himself! woah, then im even more surprised that reliability and milage are neglected in your purchase criteria! No worries tho, RFD will make sure you look good like you have real taste in cars and not be seen as a ricer!

Threads like this are pointless.. to cite autoblog journalist's John Neth's number 1 rule when giving advice to someone that is looking to buy a car - always go along with the car they have already chosen.

[malaco0219]

you guys are splitting hairs.

the fact of the matter is that, there is nill point in asking for an opinion on a car on any web forum. as predicted, the op is in strong favour to go with the car his friend has introduced into his aforementioned category of "Sports Car". It is obvious to the OP that horsepower = sports car. Nevermind the gross 3600 lbs of the 350z or the pisspoor torque numbers of the 13b rotor from the rx8. Its painfully obvious that the OP doesn't know anything about cars amd there was no need to restate that fact in his rebuttle - you look at buying a car like playing gran turismo.. oh wait, you don't know anything about cars? so i guess you play project gotham.

the fwd vs rwd debate. i like how the op mentions the 400hp ricer civic. Its so ironic how that doesn't classify as a sports car - it hasn't earned a place in his "sports car" justification. Yet it was that same proverbial 400hp ricer civic that single-handedly created the front-wheel-drive sports compact category. Its also that same "ricer" civic that paved the way to the refined chassis dynamics of the current gen civic, and satisfying driving spirit of the mazdaspeed3. FWD may still be considered to some to be a 'sporty' car but its popularity is increasing to the point that its kown that the current gen typeR civic is such a strong competitor on the track that it beats out its s2000 sibling and even previous gen nsx-R at tsukuba in well documented competition. Does this increasing popularity make the mazdaspeed3 the next "ricer" civic? im sure the OP is covering his eyes at the sight of that statement.

FWD is huge, its fun and its fast and i wouldn't be so quick to dismiss it, the problem is that most weekend-warriors (on this forum, not casc) can't comprehend how much harder it is on tires.. and that only makes a difference after your number of laps get into the double digits (DDT being the only possible exception, around the gta). I didn't need Eiji Yamada to tell me RWD was a clear choice to race teams but that FWD brings speed to the masses (BARC priviledges are great). Will the OP see the short-comings in the powertrain layouts? Probably, never - he won't get it to a track but its clear to him its still a "sports" car.

The OP had his decision made even before he wrote the post; his condo, his gf and *gasp* the fact that he did it all by himself! woah, then im even more surprised that reliability and milage are neglected in your purchase criteria! No worries tho, RFD will make sure you look good like you have real taste in cars and not be seen as a ricer!

Threads like this are pointless.. to cite autoblog journalist's John Neth's number 1 rule when giving advice to someone that is looking to buy a car - always go along with the car they have already chosen.

Hey Trueno
If you don't like the thread, don't post. Cy is merely looking for opinions, and if he wants to he can. No need to waste everyone's time trying to put down the OP.

Your posts are unnecessary.

If you wanna talk about opinions and how stupid whatever you think is stupid you can always go to Off topic
"If you don't post, doesn't mean you cant talk."

[cy]

you guys are splitting hairs.

the fact of the matter is that, there is nill point in asking for an opinion on a car on any web forum. as predicted, the op is in strong favour to go with the car his friend has introduced into his aforementioned category of "Sports Car". It is obvious to the OP that horsepower = sports car. Nevermind the gross 3600 lbs of the 350z or the pisspoor torque numbers of the 13b rotor from the rx8. Its painfully obvious that the OP doesn't know anything about cars amd there was no need to restate that fact in his rebuttle - you look at buying a car like playing gran turismo.. oh wait, you don't know anything about cars? so i guess you play project gotham.

the fwd vs rwd debate. i like how the op mentions the 400hp ricer civic. Its so ironic how that doesn't classify as a sports car - it hasn't earned a place in his "sports car" justification. Yet it was that same proverbial 400hp ricer civic that single-handedly created the front-wheel-drive sports compact category. Its also that same "ricer" civic that paved the way to the refined chassis dynamics of the current gen civic, and satisfying driving spirit of the mazdaspeed3. FWD may still be considered to some to be a 'sporty' car but its popularity is increasing to the point that its kown that the current gen typeR civic is such a strong competitor on the track that it beats out its s2000 sibling and even previous gen nsx-R at tsukuba in well documented competition. Does this increasing popularity make the mazdaspeed3 the next "ricer" civic? im sure the OP is covering his eyes at the sight of that statement.

FWD is huge, its fun and its fast and i wouldn't be so quick to dismiss it, the problem is that most weekend-warriors (on this forum, not casc) can't comprehend how much harder it is on tires.. and that only makes a difference after your number of laps get into the double digits (DDT being the only possible exception, around the gta). I didn't need Eiji Yamada to tell me RWD was a clear choice to race teams but that FWD brings speed to the masses (BARC priviledges are great). Will the OP see the short-comings in the powertrain layouts? Probably, never - he won't get it to a track but its clear to him its still a "sports" car.

The OP had his decision made even before he wrote the post; his condo, his gf and *gasp* the fact that he did it all by himself! woah, then im even more surprised that reliability and milage are neglected in your purchase criteria! No worries tho, RFD will make sure you look good like you have real taste in cars and not be seen as a ricer!

Threads like this are pointless.. to cite autoblog journalist's John Neth's number 1 rule when giving advice to someone that is looking to buy a car - always go along with the car they have already chosen.

*yawn* Go back and watch your initial D, and dream about when your parents will buy you the Trueno.

You can offend me all you want. I admit I do not know much about cars, is it a crime? When I am not an expert in something, I try hear advices from everyone - Yes, including my friends AND people from forum. All he said is, don't overlook MSP3, not saying "MSP3 is hot, get it now, get it NOW". While YOU might not usually have the cognitive resource to filter stuff that people tells you (probably too busy watching your japanese racing DVD 24/7), I do. Having that said, your posts already showed what type of person you are. You are trying to attack me with your knowledge instead of trying to educate me. You have chose to make comment by calling people a "fan boi" when they are expressing their opinion.

FYI, I have not made a comment about FWD vs RWD if you are trying to attack me from there.

You are very annoying. When everyone got back on track, you need to jump back in with your useless comment. I have came across too many fobs like you that thinks watching initial D and those racing DVD will make you a "car god", and I think it's pretty funny! I don't think you even know how to drive a manual. LOL. I have said it, and i'll say it again - I would like to keep this thread trouble free. If you have any comment, just PM me or just add me to msn (don't waste RFD's bandwidth). Unless you want to continue to show everyone your childish actions by laying more personal attack on my newbiness on cars. Keep it on, it really isn't hurting me.

*Back on track please*

[cy]

Hey Trueno
If you don't like the thread, don't post. Cy is merely looking for opinions, and if he wants to he can. No need to waste everyone's time trying to put down the OP.

Your posts are unnecessary.

If you wanna talk about opinions and how stupid whatever you think is stupid you can always go to Off topic
"If you don't post, doesn't mean you cant talk."

Thanks Malaco0219. I am glad that I am not the only one feeling this.

Apparently he thinks I am committing a crime by asking people for opinion, or even by chatting with my friends about other options.

[malaco0219]

Thanks Malaco0219. I am glad that I am not the only one feeling this.

Apparently he thinks I am committing a crime by asking people for opinion, or even by chatting with my friends about other options.

No problem Cy. I just can't stand people that think they're Takumi Fujiwara after watching a couple episodes.. mind you.. I used to be an Initial D fan.. haha

I mean.. I've seldomly posted here. I don't see much of a need to post useless comments.

Like I said.. if you don't say anything doesn't mean that you have a voice problem...

[MP3_SKY]

Threads like this are pointless

If this thread is pointless for you, then don't post!

Your posts are really pointless. :razz:

[cy]

Test drove the MSP3 today, and what a lovely car. The torque steering isn't that bad, but this rocket is FAST...REALLY FAST for a $30k car. Quite comfortable except the cabin is a little small, but I am a small person so I can live with it. The side of the bucket seat interferes with my elbow a little when I place my hand on the shifter, but that was because the seat wasn't properly adjusted. The car flies from 0 - 100 in no time! I have to say that it's probably quicker than the ~6sec that it claims on the paper. Brakes are very responsive, turning is quick and effortless. Other than these aspect, I do not know of any other more technical way of testing the car.

All in all, I like it alot. My gf didn't get a chance to drive, but from the passenger's perspective - "It pulls me out of the seat!". Now, I will check out the insurance rates, and will probably go for it if it's reasonable. ;)

[lumlum1013]

Test drove the MSP3 today, and what a lovely car. The torque steering isn't that bad, but this rocket is FAST...REALLY FAST for a $30k car. Quite comfortable except the cabin is a little small, but I am a small person so I can live with it. The side of the bucket seat interferes with my elbow a little when I place my hand on the shifter, but that was because the seat wasn't properly adjusted. The car flies from 0 - 100 in no time! I have to say that it's probably quicker than the ~6sec that it claims on the paper. Brakes are very responsive, turning is quick and effortless. Other than these aspect, I do not know of any other more technical way of testing the car.

All in all, I like it alot. My gf didn't get a chance to drive, but from the driver's perspective - "It pulls me out of the seat!". Now, I will check out the insurance rates, and will probably go for it if it's reasonable. ;)

goood to hear that you like it alot....
if you turn of the DSC, you will defintely get a quicker 0 - 100

j/ a side note, my broker claimed to me that my MS6 is $500/yr more
than V6......

[malaco0219]

Test drove the MSP3 today, and what a lovely car. The torque steering isn't that bad, but this rocket is FAST...REALLY FAST for a $30k car. Quite comfortable except the cabin is a little small, but I am a small person so I can live with it. The side of the bucket seat interferes with my elbow a little when I place my hand on the shifter, but that was because the seat wasn't properly adjusted. The car flies from 0 - 100 in no time! I have to say that it's probably quicker than the ~6sec that it claims on the paper. Brakes are very responsive, turning is quick and effortless. Other than these aspect, I do not know of any other more technical way of testing the car.

All in all, I like it alot. My gf didn't get a chance to drive, but from the driver's perspective - "It pulls me out of the seat!". Now, I will check out the insurance rates, and will probably go for it if it's reasonable. ;)

great! hope you enjoy it!

[ES_Revenge]

+1 I totally agree, if the car is fwd doesnt meen it isnt a sports car.

not to mention it's also FASTER than the WRX (on tarmac anyways...)

who cares about it being a "true" sports car or whatever dumb name you want to call it


Though I agree the arguing about being a "sports" car is really unnecessary, I would say that what I've always thought of as being a sports car is a two door, two seater car, that's performance oriented/fast. However people call all kinds of cars sports cars which is kind of silly IMO. Still it's not really important.

A sport compact is not a sports car if you want to be technical. It is a sport compact..or a high performance version of a compact vehicle.

Anyways, get back on topic.
Yeah that's what I was thinking too. Most of these cars discussed here are sport compacts, not sports cars.

Anyway I guess the OP has found their car. The MazdaSpeed3 is indeed very nice, however I just wish it had AWD like the Speed6 and CX-7.

[cy]

Though I agree the arguing about being a "sports" car is really unnecessary, I would say that what I've always thought of as being a sports car is a two door, two seater car, that's performance oriented/fast. However people call all kinds of cars sports cars which is kind of silly IMO. Still it's not really important.


Yeah that's what I was thinking too. Most of these cars discussed here are sport compacts, not sports cars.

Anyway I guess the OP has found their car. The MazdaSpeed3 is indeed very nice, however I just wish it had AWD like the Speed6 and CX-7.

I agree with you, and sorry for the mis-use of the term "sports car" on MSP3. Still doing some homework on the insurance and hopefully it'll be in a reasonable range ;)

[magnodrome]

Wow, can't believe the Subaru Impreza WRX is left out of the list - I know it is not an WRX STI but WRX is the middle ground for the base and top model.

[ShadowVlican]

Wow, can't believe the Subaru Impreza WRX is left out of the list - I know it is not an WRX STI but WRX is the middle ground for the base and top model.
there's not much going for it other than AWD when compared to the mazdaspeed3

[VorteC]

The MS3 would be the perfect all-rounder, if it were AWD I would buy it in a SECOND.

[robbiex1]

I've gone through this thread and i'm surprised no one who actually owns a Mazdaspeed 3 has contributed.

I own a True red 2008 Mazdaspeed 3. I picked mine up at the end of December. I love the car but it's not perfect (but really, what car is). Also, I immediately pulled my wheels off and put 16" steelies with winters so a lot of my observations have been with these crappy performing tires...

What I like:

- Power, power, power
- subtle sporty exterior good looks
- interior trim is great
- fully loaded
- fun to drive, correction, a BLAST to drive
- 0% financing from Mazda!
- Lots of Mazdaspeed aftermarket mods that are covered under warranty should you choose this route (I have not)


What I don't like:

- suspension squeeks in extreme cold (common and it's normal with MS3)
- no option for sunroof, nav
- transmission could be better, in hard shifting, i sometimes miss 3rd. (This can be much improved by changing bushings and installing a short-shifter ~ $250)
- stock tires will last only 1 year
- My wife finds the exhaust a little too loud but I don't mind
- FWD, I wish it were RWD or AWD but it's really bad. Kudos to Mazda for taming the torque-steer.

I think that about sums up my car. The dislikes are all relatively minor (or can be fixed) with the exception of my wish for RWD. Actually, when under full throttle, it's almost fun to hold your breath and hold on to the steering wheel. It's kind of like the rush one gets from riding a raging bull....

I looked at a few other cars but I had to have a 4-door as the car is used for business from time-to-time.

If you do buy, go to Mazda of Toronto and talk to Jeff Holley, you won't regret it. He has a long post here at rfd about buying a Mazda from a dealer.

rob

[cy]

I've gone through this thread and i'm surprised no one who actually owns a Mazdaspeed 3 has contributed.

I own a True red 2008 Mazdaspeed 3. I picked mine up at the end of December. I love the car but it's not perfect (but really, what car is). Also, I immediately pulled my wheels off and put 16" steelies with winters so a lot of my observations have been with these crappy performing tires...

What I like:

- Power, power, power
- subtle sporty exterior good looks
- interior trim is great
- fully loaded
- fun to drive, correction, a BLAST to drive
- 0% financing from Mazda!
- Lots of Mazdaspeed aftermarket mods that are covered under warranty should you choose this route (I have not)


What I don't like:

- suspension squeeks in extreme cold (common and it's normal with MS3)
- no option for sunroof, nav
- transmission could be better, in hard shifting, i sometimes miss 3rd. (This can be much improved by changing bushings and installing a short-shifter ~ $250)
- stock tires will last only 1 year
- My wife finds the exhaust a little too loud but I don't mind
- FWD, I wish it were RWD or AWD but it's really bad. Kudos to Mazda for taming the torque-steer.

I think that about sums up my car. The dislikes are all relatively minor (or can be fixed) with the exception of my wish for RWD. Actually, when under full throttle, it's almost fun to hold your breath and hold on to the steering wheel. It's kind of like the rush one gets from riding a raging bull....

I looked at a few other cars but I had to have a 4-door as the car is used for business from time-to-time.

If you do buy, go to and talk to Jeff Holley, you won't regret it. He has a long post here at rfd about buying a Mazda from a dealer.

rob

Hi Rob,

I appriciate your input, they are very valuable to my purchase. I am currently dealing with Agincourt mazda and so far they've been fine. I will definitely look around first before I strike the final deal.

I am still quoting around for the insurance, and I am not liking the numbers so far!

[silvermist99]

Hi Rob,

I appriciate your input, they are very valuable to my purchase. I am currently dealing with Agincourt mazda and so far they've been fine. I will definitely look around first before I strike the final deal.

I am still quoting around for the insurance, and I am not liking the numbers so far!


I picked up my 08 mazdaspeed 3 on friday I can comment on some of these things.

I came from a 2002 Volkswagen GTI, and the ms3 is $200/year more then my GTI which is a 2 door. yes the car is a bit more then the regular 3.

I've gone through this thread and i'm surprised no one who actually owns a Mazdaspeed 3 has contributed.

I own a True red 2008 Mazdaspeed 3. I picked mine up at the end of December. I love the car but it's not perfect (but really, what car is). Also, I immediately pulled my wheels off and put 16" steelies with winters so a lot of my observations have been with these crappy performing tires...

What I like:

- Power, power, power
- subtle sporty exterior good looks
- interior trim is great
- fully loaded
- fun to drive, correction, a BLAST to drive
- 0% financing from Mazda!
- Lots of Mazdaspeed aftermarket mods that are covered under warranty should you choose this route (I have not)


What I don't like:

- suspension squeeks in extreme cold (common and it's normal with MS3)
- no option for sunroof, nav
- transmission could be better, in hard shifting, i sometimes miss 3rd. (This can be much improved by changing bushings and installing a short-shifter ~ $250)
- stock tires will last only 1 year
- My wife finds the exhaust a little too loud but I don't mind
- FWD, I wish it were RWD or AWD but it's really bad. Kudos to Mazda for taming the torque-steer.

I think that about sums up my car. The dislikes are all relatively minor (or can be fixed) with the exception of my wish for RWD. Actually, when under full throttle, it's almost fun to hold your breath and hold on to the steering wheel. It's kind of like the rush one gets from riding a raging bull....

I looked at a few other cars but I had to have a 4-door as the car is used for business from time-to-time.

If you do buy, go to Mazda of Toronto and talk to Jeff Holley, you won't regret it. He has a long post here at rfd about buying a Mazda from a dealer.

rob

+1 on talk to jeff.

I don't have much seat time in the car yet, only driven it for 2 days.

things I like about the car,

the handling by far impressed me more then the disi engine. You turn the wheel and this thing goes and hold onto wherever you point the steering wheel.
The engine is excellent, has enough power right off idle that it just pulls and pulls. Its not uncontrolable fast and can be driven slowly.

things that could be better:

1. the exhaust sort of sounds like a rice civic from the inside. It sounds better outside. It can get annoying if you commute in the car very long in traffic.
2. The tranny is very notchy.
3. although the clutch is very smooth, its engagement point is like 0.0001cm long, its hard to launch fast & smooth at the same time.
4. the turning radius (coming from a gti)
5. The paint quailty
6. no sunroof.


If loud exhaust noise and bouncy ride with higher cost of gas & insurance isn't for you, get a regular 3 and save $7k

If you want to go extreme performance for the best $ , get a 08 colbalt SS which beat the ms3 by over 10 seconds on the nurburgring. If straight line drag racing is all you care, get the dodge caliber, those things can go up to 350++++hp easily. A modded SRT will smoke most things on the road if they don't torquesteer off the road.

If what you want is a sporty drive with a car that remains you are not driving a 4 door wagon everyday time you step on it and has a decent interior with lots of space, get the speed3.

In comparsion the regular mazda 3 feels more sloppy & boring. But much cheaper to run and much more relaxing to drive without any droning noise. The steering wheel is less twitchy you don't feel like you'll fly off the road as soon as you turn the wheel and the car doesn't bounce. I know I had a hard time deciding between a regular 3 or a ms3.

Don't let those performance magazine fool you about this car being the king of sport compacts, go test drive it yourself and make sure you really like it first. I know I love mine. There are lots of choices out there, all power go for the dodge, most refinement go for the GTI etc...

[lumlum1013]

What I like: "totally agreed"

- Power, power, power
- subtle sporty exterior good looks
- interior trim is great
- fully loaded
- fun to drive, correction, a BLAST to drive
- 0% financing from Mazda!
- Lots of Mazdaspeed aftermarket mods that are covered under warranty should you choose this route (I have not)


What I don't like:

- suspension squeeks in extreme cold (common and it's normal with MS3) "also found in mazda 3/mazda 6/MS6"
- no option for sunroof, nav "somethin' that i wanted in my MS6 too w/o leather"
- transmission could be better, in hard shifting, i sometimes miss 3rd. (This can be much improved by changing bushings and installing a short-shifter ~ $250) "agreed about goin' aftermarket"
- stock tires will last only 1 year "i had the dealership swapped mine out to Pirelli P-zero nero M+S as my first request, 400-treadwear"
- My wife finds the exhaust a little too loud but I don't mind "it's still a car to attract younger drivers....i find MS6 exhaust too quite, MS3 has a much nicer tone"
- FWD, I wish it were RWD or AWD but it's really bad. Kudos to Mazda for taming the torque-steer. "agreed, but if it was AWD i would of been all over it"


Hi Rob,

I am currently dealing with Agincourt mazda and so far they've been fine. I will definitely look around first before I strike the final deal.

I am still quoting around for the insurance, and I am not liking the numbers so far!

visit this forum to see the pro and cons about each
dealership~

nevertheless, if you do a quick search on the GM's name (that i've pm-ed you earlier) in the link below,
you'll see there are a few guys who made some good deals purchasin' a MS3

Mazda Dealership Experience (http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=94)

[robbiex1]

Cy,

How old are you? Accident history?

I'm 27 (28 this year) with no accidents and no tickets. I'm with Meloche Monnex under their profession engineer discount and I'm paying $146/month to insure my speed3. I think my deductible is $1000.

[cy]

Cy,

How old are you? Accident history?

I'm 27 (28 this year) with no accidents and no tickets. I'm with Meloche Monnex under their profession engineer discount and I'm paying $146/month to insure my speed3. I think my deductible is $1000.

I am 24, 25 this year. No accident, one 45 in 40 zone ticket. I am getting quotes in the low $300's/mth, until i turn 25 at the end of the year, then it jumps back down to $150-180. Apparently the ticket didn't effect me at all in most of the companies. I think the quotes are reasonable to be honest. I spoke with TDMM, and they gave me quotes in the $4.6k/yr and belair so far gave me the best.

I am not looking for a car which only got speed and nothing else. The reason I had my eye on the msp3 is because the fun factor (we just have to agree it's a fun ride!), and it's a practical car when it doesn't need to be pushed. I do strongly agree with the fact that "it can be driven as a normal car", because I have specifically tested for that on my test drive. It's not a car that you HAVE to push it. The ride is rather comfortable (to my standard). This will really be a car brings me from point A to point B when i get home from work, and the odd weekends that I bring my family out for lunch. ;) I probably wouldn't be tuning or modding it either as I am happy with the way it is now (and I am not a fan of modding cars). I like the fact that it is fast, but doesn't have the look to be a cop magnet while still remain sporty.

I think I am set on it, I can't swing it off my head in the past week!

[malaco0219]

I am 24, 25 this year. No accident, one 45 in 40 zone ticket. I am getting quotes in the low $300's/mth, until i turn 25 at the end of the year, then it jumps back down to $150-180. Apparently the ticket didn't effect me at all in most of the companies. I think the quotes are reasonable to be honest. I spoke with TDMM, and they gave me quotes in the $4.6k/yr and belair so far gave me the best.

I am not looking for a car which only got speed and nothing else. The reason I had my eye on the msp3 is because the fun factor (we just have to agree it's a fun ride!), and it's a practical car when it doesn't need to be pushed. I do strongly agree with the fact that "it can be driven as a normal car", because I have specifically tested for that on my test drive. It's not a car that you HAVE to push it. The ride is rather comfortable (to my standard). This will really be a car brings me from point A to point B when i get home from work, and the odd weekends that I bring my family out for lunch. ;) I probably wouldn't be tuning or modding it either as I am happy with the way it is now (and I am not a fan of modding cars). I like the fact that it is fast, but doesn't have the look to be a cop magnet while still remain sporty.

I think I am set on it, I can't swing it off my head in the past week!

Congrats Cy! Hope you enjoy it

[M-e-X-x]

keep shopping for quotes... TDMM isn't the end all of insurance companies... go through brokers and they can probably get u even lower prices...

so my 'good' contribution to this thread is to go get a quote from economical insurance group (gotta go through a broker though from what i know).. TDMM couldn't come close to the price economical gave me

[cy]

keep shopping for quotes... TDMM isn't the end all of insurance companies... go through brokers and they can probably get u even lower prices...

so my 'good' contribution to this thread is to go get a quote from economical insurance group (gotta go through a broker though from what i know).. TDMM couldn't come close to the price economical gave me

Thanks. I got a better rate @ around $275/mth from a broker my friend's father referred me to.

Still working a few things out, and hopefully i'll be able to bite the bullet soon ;)

[cy]

Picked up the car on Monday, been having fun and learning the car. This is a beast!

Only took a few pics in my underground parking as it was raining yesterday:
http://www.chrisyiu.com/images_personal/msp3/20.jpg
http://www.chrisyiu.com/images_personal/msp3/16.jpg
http://www.chrisyiu.com/images_personal/msp3/14.jpg
http://www.chrisyiu.com/images_personal/msp3/8.jpg
http://www.chrisyiu.com/images_personal/msp3/6.jpg

[malaco0219]

congrats chris! awesome car!

[cy]

congrats chris! awesome car!

Thx buddy! Thanks for everyone's advices!

It's my first manual car so I am still learning ;)

[M-e-X-x]

who'd u settle on for an insurer?

[thephenom]

Thx buddy! Thanks for everyone's advices!

It's my first manual car so I am still learning ;)

Just don't ride or drop the clutch. :D

A good way to practice manual, go find a very slight slanted hill where there are no cars, driveway works well. And just learn how to balance your car on it with ONLY the clutch; no gas or brakes. That will teach you the engagement point of the point. Worked well for me when I started out.

[malaco0219]

Just don't ride or drop the clutch. :D

A good way to practice manual, go find a very slight slanted hill where there are no cars, driveway works well. And just learn how to balance your car on it with ONLY the clutch; no gas or brakes. That will teach you the engagement point of the point. Worked well for me when I started out.

Haha, i learned manual on a Rx-8 on a slanted parking lot.. haha it was fun

Luckily my next car is a manual, i'm too lazy to drive manual

[cy]

Just don't ride or drop the clutch. :D

A good way to practice manual, go find a very slight slanted hill where there are no cars, driveway works well. And just learn how to balance your car on it with ONLY the clutch; no gas or brakes. That will teach you the engagement point of the point. Worked well for me when I started out.

Thanks. I got some good lessons ages ago from my friend, did exactly what you have suggested back then. The contact point on the msp3 is so small that it's very tough to get it hold still without gasing, LOL. Give me a few more days I am sure i'll be fine with that ;)

marco, did you mean your next car is auto? lol

[thephenom]

Thanks. I got some good lessons ages ago from my friend, did exactly what you have suggested back then. The contact point on the msp3 is so small that it's very tough to get it hold still without gasing, LOL. Give me a few more days I am sure i'll be fine with that ;)

marco, did you mean your next car is auto? lol

Not sure about the clutch on the MS3, but I heard the MS6 one was really bad for smooth driving when I was researching for a car to buy.

[malaco0219]

Thanks. I got some good lessons ages ago from my friend, did exactly what you have suggested back then. The contact point on the msp3 is so small that it's very tough to get it hold still without gasing, LOL. Give me a few more days I am sure i'll be fine with that ;)

marco, did you mean your next car is auto? lol

haha yea chris thanks for correction. Too lazy to drive it in manual, and the trim i'm getting is only available in auto anyways haha

Anyways, congrats again, and enjoy. I always wanted a MS3

[beerbaron105]

oh how i love the speed3, I WANT IT NOW!!!!

[beerbaron105]

Not sure about the clutch on the MS3, but I heard the MS6 one was really bad for smooth driving when I was researching for a car to buy.

when i test drove the speed3, clutch was fine for smooth engagement, i did miss 3rd tho, then again first time driving a 6spd, plus i heard the stock shifter isnt the best, but an aftermarket one remedies that

[cy]

Not sure about the clutch on the MS3, but I heard the MS6 one was really bad for smooth driving when I was researching for a car to buy.

Yes, MSP6's clutch is ridicilously hard to drive smoothly. I was actually driving one tonight. Took some pics:
http://www.chrisyiu.com/images_personal/msp3/04.JPG
http://www.chrisyiu.com/images_personal/msp3/06.JPG
http://www.chrisyiu.com/images_personal/msp3/02.JPG

haha yea chris thanks for correction. Too lazy to drive it in manual, and the trim i'm getting is only available in auto anyways haha

Anyways, congrats again, and enjoy. I always wanted a MS3

Thx! You should get those lazy bugs out, and get a MS3 with me ;)

when i test drove the speed3, clutch was fine for smooth engagement, i did miss 3rd tho, then again first time driving a 6spd, plus i heard the stock shifter isnt the best, but an aftermarket one remedies that

Yes, the shifter has room for improvement. However, it's perfectly fine for my driving ;)

I can't describe how much power this thing has, and how much I love driving it!

[malaco0219]

Thx! You should get those lazy bugs out, and get a MS3 with me ;)





Haha, I wish.. I've settled my eyes on a Volvo S60.. hopefully picking up one by end of april or early may

Lovely car, enjoy chris!

[lumlum1013]

Yes, MSP6's clutch is ridicilously hard to drive smoothly. I was actually driving one tonight. Took some pics:
http://www.chrisyiu.com/images_personal/msp3/04.JPG
http://www.chrisyiu.com/images_personal/msp3/06.JPG
http://www.chrisyiu.com/images_personal/msp3/02.JPG
it!


damn, i'm around that area too, but i don't usually see any other MS6 around.... i'm waitin' for warmer weather, and i'll have my summer mode MS6 ready...

nice pics by the way, should visit the Torontomazda3.ca and torontomazda6.com for troubleshooting/discounts and sponsors....

[cy]

damn, i'm around that area too, but i don't usually see any other MS6 around.... i'm waitin' for warmer weather, and i'll have my summer mode MS6 ready...

nice pics by the way, should visit the Torontomazda3.ca and torontomazda6.com for troubleshooting/discounts and sponsors....

I am sure you would have stopped by if you see a msp3 and msp6 in there ;)

I do visit torontomazda3.ca sometimes, but I am liking mazda3forums.com better because it has better traffic. TM3.ca is slow!

Question for anyone that knows - Does blow off valve void the warranty for any parts?

[Magiclow]

damn, i'm around that area too, but i don't usually see any other MS6 around.... i'm waitin' for warmer weather, and i'll have my summer mode MS6 ready...

nice pics by the way, should visit the Torontomazda3.ca and torontomazda6.com for troubleshooting/discounts and sponsors....

Hey lumlum, where bouts u live in Saga? We should have a Mazdaspeed Car meet sometime.

[lumlum1013]

I am sure you would have stopped by if you see a msp3 and msp6 in there ;)

I do visit torontomazda3.ca sometimes, but I am liking mazda3forums.com better because it has better traffic. TM3.ca is slow!

Question for anyone that knows - Does blow off valve void the warranty for any parts?

BOV is in the grey area.... this is what i've heard/read....
BOV will not void warranty, but the dealership can refuse to replace/fix
turbo components and parts under warranty. (the common excuse is that
becuz a aftermarket BOV will hold too much boost for OEM turbo..)

however, there are
some mazda that are cool w/ BOV...remember, the turbo components and
parts are not under 5yr/100 000km drivetrain warranty, it's actually under 3yr/60 000km basic.
Nevertheless, the trick to have a BOV and no trouble w/ dealership
is to remove the aftermarket BOV and replace the OEM BPV. should take
no longer than 15min w/ proper tool (except HKS's SSQV stupid ring)

i'm actually on the TM3, TM6 and mostly on the M6C....US guys
reply much quick......

Hey lumlum, where bouts u live in Saga? We should have a Mazdaspeed Car meet sometime.

i'm actually in the east end.....however, the TM6 club is tryin' to host
some social meetings all over GTA.....mainly North and East ends.....
not as much w/ the West side......

[beerbaron105]

get a recirculated BOV and not a "ricer" VTA BOV, not only will the vehicle run like ****, but you wont pass emissions either ;)