Especificaciones y análisis del Mazda 323
Power
98HP
Torque
145Nm
Consumption
7.7l/100
Emissions
-g/km
0-100 km/h
11.6s
Top Speed
182km/h
Weight
1185kg
Price
16,220€
Technical summary
Gasolina
Manual 5v
FWD
5 / 5 doors
356 L
55 L
72 kW
Current
Technical specifications
Engine
Capacities
Detailed analysis of the Mazda 323 Active 1.6 16V 5p · 98 CV (2002-2004)
General description
The 2002 Mazda 323 Active 1.6 16V is a car that, at first glance, may seem discreet, but it hides a personality that invites you to discover it. With its 5-door body, it presents itself as a practical and functional option, ideal for everyday use, but with that Japanese touch of reliability and good workmanship that is always appreciated. Its 98 HP gasoline engine, although not seeking speed records, promises a balanced and efficient driving experience, perfect for those who value common sense without giving up a certain dynamism. It is a car that speaks to you of an era where mechanical engineering was the protagonist, and every component was designed to last and function with precision.
Driving experience
Behind the wheel of the Mazda 323, the feeling is one of control and confidence. The rack-and-pinion steering offers a direct response that connects you to the road, allowing you to feel every curve and every change in surface. The 1.6-liter, 98 HP engine, with its indirect injection, delivers power linearly and predictably, without surprises, which translates into a relaxed and pleasant driving experience. The 5-speed manual gearbox is precise and smooth, inviting fluid handling. Although it is not a high-performance car, its acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 11.6 seconds is more than enough for daily traffic and for some road trips. The suspension, with McPherson on both axles and stabilizer bars, filters road irregularities well, offering a good balance between comfort and stability. Ventilated disc brakes at the front and discs at the rear ensure safe and effective braking. It is a car that makes you feel safe and comfortable, without fanfare, but with a solidity that is appreciated with every kilometer.
Design and aesthetics
The design of the 2002 Mazda 323 is a reflection of the functionality and sobriety that characterized cars of its era. Its lines are clean and timeless, without excesses or artifices, which gives it a discreet elegance that does not go out of style. The 5-door body, with its 4250 mm length, 1705 mm width, and 1410 mm height, offers a compact yet spacious appearance. The 2610 mm wheelbase contributes to good interior habitability and a balanced presence on the road. The 195/55 R15 tires, mounted on 6 x 15 rims, complement its aesthetics without seeking prominence, but rather harmony with the whole. It is a design that prioritizes utility and durability, with an aesthetic that, although not seeking to dazzle, does convey a sense of solidity and reliability.
Technology and features
In the 2002 Mazda 323 Active 1.6 16V, technology focuses on efficiency and durability. Its 1598 cc gasoline engine, with 4 cylinders and 4 valves per cylinder, uses an indirect injection system, a proven technology that guarantees good performance and proven reliability. The compression ratio of 9.7 and the iron materials for the block and aluminum for the cylinder head speak of robust engineering designed for the long term. The 5-speed manual transmission, although simple, is precise and efficient, optimizing fuel consumption, which stands at 7.7 l/100km in combined cycle. In terms of safety, it has disc brakes on all four wheels, ventilated on the front axle, and a well-calibrated suspension that contributes to safe dynamic behavior. Although it does not incorporate the latest connectivity or driving assistance innovations we see today, its technology is just right and necessary to offer a satisfactory and uncomplicated driving experience, with a focus on well-made mechanics.
Competition
At the time, the Mazda 323 Active 1.6 16V faced tough competition in the compact segment. Models such as the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, Opel Astra, or Renault Mégane were its main contenders. Compared to them, the Mazda 323 offered an alternative with a focus on mechanical reliability, balanced driving, and a discreet but functional design. Although it perhaps did not stand out for a groundbreaking design or an endless list of equipment, its value proposition lay in its build quality and durability, aspects highly valued by buyers of the time. It was a car for those looking for a loyal and predictable travel companion, a vehicle that more than fulfilled its purpose without needing grand gestures.
Conclusion
The 2002 Mazda 323 Active 1.6 16V is a car that, despite its age, remains an interesting option for those looking for a reliable, practical, and low-maintenance vehicle. Its 98 HP engine offers adequate performance for daily use and for trips, with reasonable consumption. Its timeless design and Japanese build quality guarantee durability that few cars in its segment can match. It is a car that invites you to enjoy driving in a simple and honest way, without distractions, focusing on the essentials. If you are looking for a travel companion that offers peace of mind and efficiency, the Mazda 323 is a choice that will not disappoint you, a modern classic that still has a lot to offer.




