Segment:
Subcompact/Compact Coupe and Hatchback
Niche:
Sporty, stylish, and fuel-efficient alternative to more mainstream options, appealing to younger drivers and those seeking affordable performance.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort
Design Philosophy:
'Jinba Ittai' (Horse and Rider as One) driving dynamics, emphasis on driver engagement and responsive handling.
Styling:
Distinctive coupe-like styling for the hatchback, aerodynamic lines, often available with sport-oriented body kits.
Engine:
Engine Mechanical, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control System
Transmission:
Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (AT) systems, Clutch System
Drivetrain:
Front Wheel Drive (FWD) system, Axles, Drive Shafts
Suspension:
Front Suspension (MacPherson Strut), Rear Suspension (Multi-link), Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Column, Steering Rack
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum/Disc Brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) (if equipped), Brake Lines, Master Cylinder, Calipers, Wheel Cylinders
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Wiper System, Horn, Power Windows, Central Locking, Audio System (basic wiring)
Body:
Body Structure, Doors, Hood, Trunk Lid, Bumpers, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Glass, Seats, Seat Belts
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks, Fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), Filter replacements, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.
Repair:
Component removal and installation procedures for all major vehicle systems, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension and brake component replacement, body panel repair.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, critical clearances and measurements, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meaning.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Digital Format Details:
Likely a PDF document with searchable text, allowing for quick access to specific information. May include scanned pages from original factory manuals.
Print Quality:
Variable depending on source; original factory manuals are high quality. Digital reproductions aim for clarity of diagrams and text.
Binding:
Not applicable for digital format; if print, typically bound for durability.
Paper Type:
Not applicable for digital format; original manuals often printed on durable, semi-gloss paper.
Engine Code:
B6-ME (1.6L)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft), 16 Valves
Displacement:
1597 cc (1.6 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
78.0 mm x 83.6 mm
Horsepower Peak:
100 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate, US spec)
Torque Peak:
100 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate, US spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Optional Engine Code:
KL-ZE (2.5L V6, not typically for North American MX-3, but available in other markets like Japan)
Optional Displacement:
2490 cc (2.5 Liters)
Optional Horsepower:
160 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate, KL-ZE)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (Driver/Passenger) (Estimated based on contemporary models, specific 1995 ratings may vary or be unavailable)
ABS:
Available (Optional on some trims)
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts, rear 2-point lap belts
Child Seat Anchors:
Not typically equipped with ISOFIX/LATCH in this era, but seat belt system is designed for child seat use.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Limited speaker configuration.
Dashboard:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Warning lights for various systems.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels
Connectivity Features:
Minimal by modern standards; primarily focused on basic vehicle operation.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using synthetic or synthetic blend oil. Check owner's manual for specific recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (standard plugs) or 60,000 miles (iridium/platinum plugs if applicable)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial! Every 60,000 miles or 4-5 years for the 1.6L engine (non-interference design means catastrophic failure is less likely than interference engines, but recommended for longevity and performance).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for ambient temperature range)
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.8 Liters (4.0 US Quarts) with filter change
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Dexron III/Mercon Automatic Transmission Fluid
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, Mazda Long Life Coolant or equivalent
Engine Mounts:
Wear and tear leading to vibration or clunking sounds, especially under acceleration/deceleration.
Suspension Bushings:
Cracking or degradation of rubber bushings in control arms and subframes, leading to vague steering and noise.
Radiator And Hoses:
Leaking radiators and brittle hoses are common with age, potentially leading to overheating.
Power Steering Pump:
Leaks or noise from the power steering pump are possible.
Interior Electronics:
Degradation of window regulators, door lock actuators, and dashboard illumination can occur over time.
Mazda Design Philosophy:
Mazda's focus on driving pleasure and innovative engineering, with a history of producing sporty and reliable vehicles.
Generation Info:
The Mazda MX-3 (also known as Eunos 30X or Autozam AZ-3 in some markets) was a compact coupe and hatchback produced from 1991 to 1998. The 1995 model is part of the first generation (EC).
Key Design Elements:
Known for its distinctive styling, short wheelbase, and the availability of a high-revving V6 engine (in select markets), contributing to its sporty image.
Production Years:
1991-1998
Manufacturing Location:
Japan