Mazda MX-3

The Mazda MX-3 was a four-seat hatchback produced from September 1991 to 1998. It was based on the EC platform. 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 was available in two trims in North America: the RS with an I4 engine, and the GS with a V6 engine. It is notable for having one of the lowest displacement V6 engines ever fitted to a production vehicle with its 1.8 L V6.

Engine

The MX-3 came with three engine options: a 1.5L I4 (only found in the Autozam AZ-3), a 1.6L I4 and a 1.8L V6. The 1.6L was available in two versions, an 88hp (66kW) SOHC/16-valve B6-ME unit which powered 1992 and 1993 models, or a 106hp (79kW) DOHC/16-valve B6-D unit which was found in 1994 and later models. The Japanese market DOHC/16-valve B5-ZE produced 115hp (86kW) and the most powerful DOHC 24-valve V6 K8-DE produced 130hp (97kW). All were available with an optional 4-speed automatic transmission, depending upon the market.

Performance

The V6 MX-3 had a top speed of approximately 210km/h (130mph). The MX-3 GS could accelerate from 0-60mph (97km/h) in 8.5 seconds, and could travel a quarter mile in 16.6 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. It is rumored that Porsche designers helped to create the K series engine.[citation needed]

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.