Tuesday, May 02, 2006

Got it! Love it !! My C-1 Mazda3

So here it is my Mazda3, or as I like to think of it "the Focus I should have." After looking at cars from many manufacturers I settled on the Mazda3. Settled is the wrong word, it implies that I compromised and I really didn't. I test drove Hyundai, Chevy, Dodge, Ford, Honda and Mazda, looked up many others and the Mazda won hands down. This was a surprise to me, because I was certain that the Dodge Caliber would be my new vehicle. But a benefit of buying the Mazda is that it's loosely a Ford. Not just a Ford, but the C-1 platform used by the Focus world wide.
This car is wonderful, the quality materials used throughout and the driving experience are what sold me. The 2.3 L I4 with VVT makes 160 hp and 150 lb ft of torque and the 5 speed manual is among the best gearboxes I've ever had. The power comes on low and is there across a broad band, and while it can rev high, the sound is music rather than the thrashy clattering sound of the Dodge. The chassis is fantastic, capable handling in good comfort, the perfect balance. The 4 wheel disc brakes with ABS are amazing, bringing you down from speed with great grip and feel. There is room inside for 4 real adults, and with the rear seats folded it's a real utility wagon. That's right I said wagon, you can call it a 5 door, but with that much space, I like to think of it as a small wagon.

I'm very impressed and happy with my purchase, and would just wish for one thing further. I wish this had a blue oval badge, that this was the Focus we should have in the US. Other than that, I can deal with it.
I refuse to hum that little Zoom Zoom Zoom song, no matter how much it runs through my head as I zip around.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

You should buy ford focus badges and put them on in place of the mazda

Anonymous said...

Hum it!

Anonymous said...

zoom-zoom,let the Zoom take you Joe, You will seek out curvy roads, You will find new reasons to take the car out, You will give into the Zoom.

Think of it as a tuner Focus. after all it does start with the 2.3 Ford , Mazda tuners just added Variable valve timing, and then Upgraded the Handling of Fords C1 platform and at least it Doesn't have the Dave look again the Mazda Tuner has given it sporty euro look.

Ford/Mazda


BobZoom

Anonymous said...

I bought a Mazda3 sedan last year and have loved it ever since. I think you'll enjoy it as well. Congrats!

Anonymous said...

I'm just wondering... Will this vehicle do well in crash tests like Toyota vehicles have been doing? But I do love the car.