Market Segment:
Sporty Front-Wheel Drive Coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking performance and style, aiming to compete with sporty coupes from other manufacturers.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Nissan 240SX, Ford Probe (platform sharing).
Design Philosophy:
Sleek, aerodynamic styling with a focus on driver engagement and a comfortable grand touring experience.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with the Ford Probe, resulting in some commonalities in chassis and powertrain components.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, lubrication system, cooling system, engine control (ECU), transmission (manual & automatic), drivetrain (FWD).
Chassis:
Brakes (hydraulic, ABS), steering (power assist), suspension (front & rear), wheels & tires, chassis mechanicals.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, electrical components, lighting, instrumentation, audio system, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), diagnostic connectors.
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, convertible top (if applicable), climate control system, safety systems (airbags - if equipped), body hardware.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake, transmission, power steering), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), common fault identification and resolution for all systems.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, electrical component replacement, body panel repair.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, electrical system specifications, engine performance data, diagnostic parameter readings.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications for dealership-level technicians.
Engine Type:
3.0L V6 DOHC 24-valve
Bore X Stroke:
85.5 mm x 86.2 mm
Horsepower:
164 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
180 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based system
ECU Type:
Mazda Electronic Control Unit (ECU)
Length:
4600 mm (approx. 181.1 inches)
Width:
1750 mm (approx. 68.9 inches)
Height:
1315 mm (approx. 51.8 inches)
Wheelbase:
2615 mm (approx. 103.0 inches)
Track Width Front:
1470 mm (approx. 57.9 inches)
Track Width Rear:
1475 mm (approx. 58.1 inches)
Curb Weight Manual:
1360 kg (approx. 2998 lbs)
Curb Weight Automatic:
1385 kg (approx. 3053 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
1800 kg (approx. 3968 lbs)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
Not prominently rated for this specific year/model in easily accessible public databases from that era.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Not typically available.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard.
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts, rear lap belts.
Child Seat Anchors:
Not standard.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Coolant Interval:
First change at 5 years/50,000 miles, then every 2-3 years/30,000 miles thereafter.
Timing Belt Interval:
Replace every 60,000 miles or 5 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on ambient temperature).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.9 US quarts (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron II or III ATF.
Engine Reliability:
Generally reliable V6, but timing belt maintenance is critical. Can experience intake manifold gasket leaks over time.
Transmission Issues:
Automatic transmission can develop shifting issues if fluid isn't maintained. Manual transmissions are typically robust.
Suspension Wear:
Control arm bushings, ball joints, and sway bar links can wear over time, leading to clunking noises or poor handling.
Electrical Quirks:
Window motors, power mirror switches, and interior lighting can be prone to failure due to age and use.
Climate Control:
HVAC blower motor resistor and blend door actuators can fail, affecting air flow and temperature control.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Mazda B6Y1-14-302 (example, specific to engine and manufacturer filter)
Spark Plug Type:
NGK BKR6E-11 (example, check manual for exact type)
Mazda Performance Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of producing engaging and sporty vehicles, including the RX-7 series and various performance sedans.
First Generation Mx-6:
The first generation (GD) was produced from 1987-1991, known for its rotary engine option and striking styling.
Second Generation Mx-6:
The 1993 model marks the introduction of the second generation (GE), which adopted a more conventional V6 engine and front-wheel drive layout, sharing its platform with the Ford Probe.
Trim Levels:
Typically offered in base, LS (Luxury Sport), and optionally the SE (Sport Edition) trims, often differentiated by features and sometimes wheel designs.
Production Location:
Japan (Mazda's Hofu Plant)
Production Years 2Nd Gen:
1992-1997
Car And Driver Awards:
Often praised for its styling and handling in contemporary reviews, though specific awards for this generation are less prominent than some competitors.
Consumer Reports:
Varied ratings depending on the year and specific component, generally considered an average performer with some noted reliability concerns in later years.
Emissions Certification:
Meets EPA and California emissions standards for 1993 models.