12k-Mile 1995 Mazda Miata M Edition

The Miata isn't just a new classic. It was that near-impossible to achieve category in commercial industry: an instant classic.

That said, it became an instant classic by basically borrowing everything from the 1960s Lotus Elan. But the Miata did everything the Elan did better and far more efficiency, while looking damn good, too.

It debuted in 1990 as just in time for Baby Boomer midlife crises. Mazda brilliantly found a gap in the market where the only other remotely similar vehicle was the aging, fussy and pricey Alfa Romeo Spider. The result was a huge success, with over 400,000 selling by 1997.

The formula was simple. A conventional but lightweight body, straight 4-cylinder engine and power directed to the rear-wheels.

The styling was ingenious. Sure, it took a ton of inspiration from older cars. But to pull it off required a subtle eye and a simple touch that today's auto designers seemingly lack.

This was from an era when Japanese cars were hitting their peak, so when they crossed into niche markets, the results were staggering. This intersection is especially apparent in the interior. A uninformed opinion might mistake it for being bland. But the whole point of the classic two-seater convertible was a bare bones interior that didn't distract from the most important view: the horizon outside. As such, the Miata's dash is awash in dark, high quality plastics and simple, easy to read and use gauges and buttons. Note the spherical a/c vents, a cool sporty touch.

Of course there were people who wanted more power. But they could get the more expensive and complex Z3. The straight 4, despite originally having just 115 horsepower, worked great with the balanced chassis and low weight, as well as providing excellent fuel economy. Something new was born: a fun commuter car.

This is the second run of M Edition cars, unique to model year 1995 and featuring Merlot Mica paint and 15-inch BBS wheels. This seller of this one says it has an astounding 12,785 miles. They say their mother bought it, then was transferred to his sister and now him since last year. He's done taken care of some obvious needs for a car that has been sitting so long, and it seems mostly ready to go again.

Available here on ebay.

1980 Mazda RX-7

The first generation RX-7 was revolutionary car that has since become an icon. Although the Germans all but abandoned their Wankel rotary engine the 70s, they licensed the technology to companies around the world. Mazda was one of them, and they put it to good use, solving the chatter marks issue and gaining enough confidence to put their first commercially produced rotary engine in the 1967 Cosmo.

It wasn't until nearly a decade later, however, that their rotary engine would gain mass appreciation with its placement in the first generation RX-7, which would go on to sell almost half a million units.

There were so many factors contributing to success of the RX-7. It was the right car at the right time in the right place. The 1,145 cc 12A rotary engine produced a decent-for-the-time 100 horsepower to the rear wheels. Coupled with a stick shift, it was smooth, sporty, fast revving and relatively fuel efficient. This was when the two-door compact sports car segment was heating up, and the Japanese were more than happy to claim a stake in the ripe North American market hungry for small, economical but well-built and fun cars.

It also helped the RX-7 was wrapped in a styling home run. What's that saying? Often imitated, never duplicated? That's practically the design story of the RX-7, which basically set the aesthetic template for entry-level sports cars and influenced countless imitations for a good decade and a half after its debut. And understandably. It's so well done. The hood is long and sleek without looking ridiculous. The hidden headlights - a technological shortcoming - magically enhance the overall design, and the rear sloping greenhouse-canopied hatchback is brilliant, before it all tapers to the simple, minimal rear end, the whole thing not quite a wedge but more of a cool cigar shape, all the while remaining remarkably compact but still comfortable inside.

This example looks just fine in red and has a claimed 99k miles on the clock. The seller says it remains original and 100% stock after bringing it eastward from the Golden State. Mazda produced many of them, but a good deal have already been driven into the ground or rusted away and sold for scrap. However, well-kept survivors have been commanding steady amounts for a couple years now and show no signs of slowing down. Subsequent generations lost the charm and although the RX-8 was well intentioned there is now nothing remotely like it in Mazda's current lineup.

Available here on craigslist for $3,500.

1995 Mazda MX-6

Mazda has had it tough over the years trying to stand out from Honda and Toyota. Fortunately, they tried really hard in the 90s, with a bunch of cars that were interestingly styled and offered decent driving experiences.

The MX-6 name was used for just a decade on two different generations. This is the much more streamlined 2nd generation.

The design is classic 90s rising sun: smooth, simple planes, rounded corners, blobular lights, organic shapes everywhere. It's shockingly stood the test of time, especially when compared to today's cars, which are both organic and over styled (although Mazda is currently finding a good design language). I also have a hunch it's got a pretty low drag coefficient.

The same goes with the interior. Sure, it's awash in tan and black plastics, but it's pretty sporty and no-nonsense at the same time.

Perhaps the best part of this car is that it's about the size of a Civic from the same era but comes packed with much more power in the form of a V6. Coupled with the stick shift, this is a fun little package. It also seems to be pretty well-equipped with fog lamps, alloy whees and a rear spoiler. All nice touches, and thankfully spared from aftermarket modifying.

This would make a perfect everyday commuter for a young or single person as long as it can be had for under $5k.

Available here on ebay.

73K-Mile 1994 Mazda RX-7

Mazda's RX-7 made quite an impression when the charming first generation debuted in 1978. By then, the Germans had long abandoned any notions of mainstream, mass-produced rotary engines. But Japan hadn't given up on the quirky engine setup, which was noted for its smoothness and high output, although not necessarily reliability and efficiency.

Successive generations of the RX-7 have come and gone, but the 90s version remains the most enigmatic. Firstly, it's rare. Mazda only offered it here from 1993-1995 and never sold many, hence pulling it off the market so quickly. Second, it was the only rotary engined car available. The rotary engine is a piece of complex machinery, and is not measured by cylinders. This generation RX-7 came with a sequential twin-turbocharger unit that was good for north of 250 horsepower, impressive for the time. But despite being a quality, capable rear-wheel drive sports car, it was often out-shined by stiff competition like the 300ZX, Supra, Corvette and NSX. Lastly, the styling, while admired for its simplicity, is almost a little too soft and anonymous to stand out in a field of alpha-personalities.

Only three models were offered in North America: base, touring and R. This is a 1994 model that is being offered by a private seller. They don't specify what trim it is, but it seems well equipped with a sunroof, leather seating and a rear spoiler, all of which are rather must-haves on this type of car.

They say it has just 73k miles on the clock. It's no garage queen though, and has dings and dents on the body along with a worn driver's seat.

Mechanically, the seller says it runs and drive nice. Reliability will depend on their upkeep, so check for proof. I'd also check for accidents. These were fast cars and inexperienced owners often pushed them to the limits, with repercussions. Scarce parts and service might be expensive, as well.

The seller is asking $12,000, which is a large chunk of change for an old car not in perfect condition. But, the mileage is low enough and the car itself rare that it is still desirable. Knowledge is power and will help in negotiating.

Available here on craigslist.

Four Wheel Steering: 1989 Mazda MX-6 GT

The MX-6 was essentially a coupe version of the 626 sedan. Mazda sold only two generations between 1987 and 1997. The first generation was based on the Mark 3 "GD" platform 626, and only lasted until 1992.

Mazda is one of those on again, off again brands that have not been able to steadily build momentum like Toyota and Honda have (although both are currently teetering on the edge of slipping indefinitely). Mazda has had some moments of widespread appreciation in the industry (their refinement of the rotary engine) and in pop culture (the goofy but catchy Zoom Zoom ads), but nothing that has permanently stuck in the minds of consumers enough to make them a huge sales success, and, more importantly, iconic.

That doesn't mean they haven't made some great products however. To the contrary, they have a lot of modern classics under the belts. One of their lesser known gems is this '89 MX-6. In the 80s, Mazda was still competing on a relatively even playing field with Toyota and Honda for the no.1 Japanese car spot. Their 626 was arguably way cooler and better equipped than the comparable Camry and Accords of the time. To stick out from the competition, this MX-6 has a 2.2-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine under the hood. The thought of  turbo power on an otherwise sedate front-wheel drive car makes it infinitely more appealing, and Mazda understood this.

The seller says a couple of times it's "very fast". They also mention it has a Zombie SS chip and boost controller, but I have no idea what that is or how good it is. What they don't say is whether it has the legendary four wheel steering, which was only offered in the U.S. on 1989 GT models exactly like this one, making it an extreme rarity. Essentially, turning the steering wheel turned all four wheels. The rear wheels were electronically controlled to pivot no greater than 5 degrees in the opposite direction of the front wheels under 35 miles per hour and in the same direction for any speed faster. This allowed for both agile parking and greater maneuverability changing lanes and taking corners. Honda experimented with this too, before all automakers  abruptly pulled it from the market and never offered it again except on a couple other rare and expensive high performance cars. Why this lost but significant technology is being repressed is still a mystery. It could easily have become a standard feature on all cars in the same way that disc brakes and airbags have become.

The body clearly has some flaws and the seller says there is some rust. They also say it needs a wheel bearing and engine mount. Gross over-sized aftermarket exhaust aside, it's good to see the original wheels still intact. This thing is begging for an impeccable restoration. Be the first to do it, then tell me all about it!

Available here on craigslist in Minneapolis, Minnesota for $2,000.

9,821-Mile 1994 Mazda Protege

Did you miss out on the '94 Protege when new? Here's your second chance. This little puppy has just 9,821 original miles on the odometer. What on earth has the owner been doing with it all this time? One thing is for sure: not driving it.

There is a running joke here about ultra-low mileage second hand cars: they are always the blandest of cars. Why can't it be something rare and fantastic? But then, a low mileage Mustang Cobra or Porsche 356 wouldn't be much of a revelation, since they are already in museums and are always being built and restored. The beauty of finding a low mileage econobox is that literally there may be nothing else like it anywhere, as no one thinks twice about preserving them. So when examples like this pop up, take notice.

The Protege was otherwise known as the Familia in markets outside North America. It was Mazda's entry level car from 1963-2003. This is a sixth generation "BG" Protege, which were produced from 1989-1994. It basically treads Civic and Corolla territory quite well, nothing more or less, although the sheetmetal is extra tidy and slightly better looking. And although many Civic and Corolla were sold and remain on the roads, I can't remember the last time I've seen a BG Protege.

Look at the design. The frugality and economy on display is bold and fresh in an era like now when car design is bulbous, pompous, pretentious and over-the-top. This thing has Unpainted Plastic Bumpers. Sure, they are a little unrefined, but they deflect dirt, tar, rock chips and light impacts mighty well. And if they did hit something head on, you can bet they are easy and cheap to replace. How about that? When is the last time a car manufacturer was worried about ease and cost of cosmetic repairs? There is also no passenger side mirror. I kind of see the wisdom to that, given how it must improve aerodynamic flow on that side by what, a fraction? But it must be a pain parking and backing up, not to mention dangerous changing lanes. Small price. Then there are the simple, machine hole-poked steel wheels as opposed to the grossly oversized rims we get today. These little recessed wheels reduce weight and and are protected from curb rash by the tire rubber.

Inside, accommodations are just as sparse and simple, and the seller says it has the rare factory radio, clock and air conditioning delete option. Conveniences include just power steering and those interesting automatic seat-belts, which, on paper, seem like a great idea. I can't remember how many times I had to prod my parents to use their seat-belts when I was a child (ever the thoughtful child I was). This would have conceivably eradicated the need for me to do so.

Under the hood is a 1.8-liter 4-cyldiner engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission powering the front two wheels. Keeping under 50 miles per hour on a flat road you could easily see 30-40 miles per gallon in this.

The seller backs up their claims of the super low miles with a carfax report that shows just 1-owner and no accidents, which is really impressive. The condition in the photos also seems unreal. They say it starts, runs, drives, shifts and brakes like a 9k-mile car should. Given that these are reliable, this thing is ready for 200k miles, which, if the average person drives about 13k miles a year, would be 14 years of relatively simple and cheap transportation. Given that the car was built in 1994, that would mean a collective 32 years of on again off again use. That's pretty incredible.

Available here on ebay in Berlin, New Jersey with bidding at $2,776 and no reserve.

Techno Tokyo: 1987 Mazda 626 Sedan Turbo

There was once a time when the race to the best-selling family sedan was a wide open field. Any car could become what the Camry and Accord have become today (which, sadly, isn't saying much, with their bland styling, simplistic front-wheel drive, poor styling and high prices). Mazda's effort was their surprisingly bold 626.

The Mark 2 "GC" generation 626 was only sold from 1983-1987. U.S. versions received slightly longer bumpers but the design was mostly unchanged. Although they were front-wheel drive, Mazda refreshingly mixed things up by offering turbocharging, four-wheel steering and a range of body styles.

This particular example is a later '87 four door "GT". The rear has a "Turbo" badge and a shot of the engine shows the turbocharger. You just don't see these anymore. The Mark 2 626 is an example of a style I like to call "80s Mod". Although the Italians were masters of this design trend, the Japanese tapped into it briefly in the first half of the decade. Shapes are angular, lines are straight and clean and predictable, and yet there is something edgy and weird about it, like the off-center Mazda logo on the front-grille and the rare headlight washers. It's a conservative design yet can barely conceal a quirky spirit underneath.

Inside, things get even more interesting. The instrumentation is in a orange-mustard yellow color. There are buttons everywhere. The stereo offers a ton of modulation options. Next to the steering wheel there there is a small diagram of the profile of a car titled "Auto Adjusting Suspension" with the options of "sport" "manual" or "auto". Below that is an aftermarket-looking device that says "Ionizer". Air purifer?

Above the rear view mirror is this amazing miniature monitor with an aerial diagram of the car in cross hairs. What is this thing? Telescope? Alert center? Traffic radar? Target sighter?

The seller says the car was donated. Just who was the previous owner? A Japanese nuclear scientist? They say it's "fairly well equipped" (more like to the hilt), has a 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission and 204,934 miles. Cosmetically, they say the cloth seats are in good shape but need a conditioning. Outside, the paint is clearly fading and they say it has a few dings and dents. Mechanically, they say it is unfortunately not running due to an electrical problem.

This thing has loads of forgotten technology. Mazda was clearly appealing to pocket calculator-carrying tech-heads, and the previous owner may have added even more cool stuff as a bonus. Does any of it work? Who knows, but it's the effort Mazda put into bringing the consumer the most buttons and switches possible that I find admirable. It's not just the presence of adjustable suspension on a mid-level car, it's the idea of having the ability to choose that makes cars like this so liberating and illuminating in hindsight.

Available here on ebay in Orange, California with 17 bids at $400 and no reserve.

$700 Project: 1986 Mazda 626 Coupe Turbo

Mazda was putting a lot of effort into their 626 of the 80s. This was before it became the dumbed down low quality rental-fleet mobile of the late 90s. But back in the 80s, the Japanese mid-size sedan segment was still wide open. Anyone could become what the Accord and Camry are today (which isn't so say much, as they are both now overpriced, poorly styled and cheaply made front-wheel drive cars). Japanese automakers rose to the competitive challenge and put their best designs and engineering innovations forward.

To distinguish the 626, Mazda was refreshingly open to ideas. This included offering the 626 in a variety of body styles like a 2-door coupe, a 4-door sedan, and a sleek 4-door hatchback. They also added an intriguing array of driving systems from four-wheel steering to four-wheel drive.

This is a 2-door coupe from the "GC" generation, which was only sold from 1983-1987, the briefness of which is evidence Mazda was watching the competition closely and felt the need to change the vehicle yet again. This generation 626 were once a common sight on American roads but have all but vanished now. I can't even remember the last time I've seen one.

Underneath the hood is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that produced 120 horsepower. Sure, they were front-wheel drive, but the turbo is a really nice addition. Neither Toyota or especially Honda were fond of turbocharging, at least on their sedans, so this is a pleasant surprise.

In the 80s, Japanese designers has a penchant for forward leaning instrument displays and this 626 follows suit, with a nifty horizontal tachometer and (presumably) digital speedometer, which is unlit. The Germans wouldn't touch this kind of edgy, almost kitschy gaucheness, and always stuck with analog displays, but these are real conversation pieces and are a unique insight on the mind fame that assembled the vehicle at the time.

Unfortunately this is a project car. The seller says the engine was given a thorough rebuild 1k miles ago at a price of $1,100, but then the turbocharger blew and has been left to sit since. The seller says they have a stock turbo from a donor car, but haven't installed it and won't let prospective buyers do so, understandably. They also have a bunch of extra parts that will come with the sale of this vehicle.

Honestly, for $700 you can't go wrong. This is a rare car that deserves some time and attention, inside and out. Get the turbo working, see if it needs anything else, give it a glossy re-paint in red, and then just drive it and take it to Japanese shows.

Available here on craigslist in Des Moines, Iowa for just $700.

14k-Mile 1990 Mazda 323 Hatchback

Did you miss out on a chance to own a sixth generation Mazda 323 when new? This could be the closest you'll get again. The seller is reporting the odometer as reading just 14,264 miles.

These were known as the Familia in most other markets and were produced from 1989-1994. They were basic front-wheel drive cars, although four-wheel drive was available. Mazda's Familia/323 helped establish the brand as makers of frugal, reliable little economy cars in the eyes of many consumers. This car became the Protege in North America, but the hatchback retained the 323 name.

Styling is pleasing. This was when Japanese designers were still being influenced by the conservative forms from Europe, so even their entry-level cars wore what could be described as "staid" sheet-metal, at least in comparison to today's cars. But a funny thing happened when those very Japanese designers (and, eventually, German and Italian designers, too) threw away hard corners and simple lines in favor of swooshy potpourri shapes more befitting of the Target parking lot than the Autobahn: consumers yearned for the hard angles. Americans (and Europeans to an extent), like our cars to look like cars, not sculptures (as Chris Bangle would have it). As such, there is a growing movement of people nostalgic for the look of these cars, insignificant as they might have seen at one time.

The seller of this remarkable survivor is a dealer and the car is not without some drama, unfortunately. The bad news first: it does have an accident to the left rear fender reported, but it looks like it was repaired. However the title was branded as salvage. The dealer explains they bought it from the insurance company, so it was involved in an accident, the owner decided not to fix it, and then the insurance company auctioned the vehicle at wholesale to dealers. It happens everyday.

The good news is that the car does genuinely seem to be a 1-owner, 14k-mile car.

The seller has provided a bunch of high-resolution photos and also taken the time to detail the car, and it goes a long way in presentation. Cosmetically, car looks great in steel grey with unpainted bumpers, cross-spoke wheels and grey cloth interior.

Mechanically, the seller states they have test driven the vehicle and it is road-worthy, needing nothing. They also offer to help the next owner apply for a rebuilt title.

Getting salvage cars can be a way to acquire cars with for cheap. Other times I imagine it could be a nightmare, or just a waste of money when a better car could be had for not much more. This might be a case of the former.

Find it here on ebay in Redondo Beach, California with a $4,988 Buy-It-Now and the Make Offer option.

Just Plain Rare: 1987 Mazda 626 LX 2.0i Hatchback

This is a second generation Mazda 626, produced from only from 1983-1987. It was available in coupe, sedan or hatchback.

These are all but absent from today's roads, especially in the Northeast, where snow and salt take their toll on cars, especially older vehicles more susceptible to rust.

So it's quite interesting to see one in this good shape. Not surprisingly, it's down in Florida, where good weather keeps cars on the road longer.

Styling is rather interesting. It wears typical staid and boxy Japanese angles of the time, but the rear hatch is incorporated nicely, blending into the trunk deck and tail well. The straight lines and simple edges of these cars meant large greenhouses, and this one is no different. Despite the hatchback, I bet visibility is still good. Note the use of black trim around the glass that gives the windows a flush, sleek, uniform look.

Underneath the hood is a basic 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine that powers the front wheels. It will not be a fast car, but it will perform adequately and be reliable. It's made it this far, anyways.

The seller is a dealer and states the mileage is 178,000. In the photos the odometer reads 178,731. They state it is a one-owner vehicle with a clean history, and was recently traded in at a Mazda dealer.

The mileage is high, but the dealer says everything "is in working order". This thing only makes sense in the sub $2k range. It's really nice to see a survivor in this great shape, though. This was before Mazda produced the very bland generation from the late 1990s that became a staple of rental car fleets and had absolutely no special qualities. I feel like this Mark 2 generation belongs in a car museum devoted to Japanese cars of the 80s and 90s.

Find it here on ebay in "Sunny Fort Lauderdale", Florida with a buy it now of just $2,499.

Only In Florida: 1986 Mazda 929 Coupe

I love the state of Florida. Not only is it a wonderful vacation land, with pristine beaches and endlessly sunny weather, but apparently you can get just about any imported vehicle titled there.

One such vehicle would be this right-hand drive Mazda, never officially sold in the U.S.

This is a third generation 929. They were produced from 1981-1986, making this a final year example. The Coupe is even more rare, wearing a completely different front fascia than the sedan, with pop-up headlights and a thin-slot grille.

These were also known as the HB Cosmo and the Luce.

The only engine available for the 929 Coupe was a 2.0-litre four cylinder producing around 120 horsepower, not much by today's standards. Fortunately, power was directed to the rear wheels, as so many cars used to be but are no longer.

The seller is scant on details, but records the odometer as reading 52,341 miles (unclear as to whether in miles or kilometers). Cosmetically, they say it has newer paint and upholstery and has been "mostly" garaged. Mechanically they say it drives "like new".

The seller also says it is the only one in the U.S., which could very well be true. Fortunately the laissez-faire Florida Department of Motor Vehicles has enabled this vehicle to land on our shores. If it's titled in Florida, it could be transferable to any state. If not, you might face an upward battle driving this anywhere other than Florida.

Find it here on ebay.

Just Plain Cool: 1988 Mazda RX-7 Turbo II 10th Anniversary

The second generation or "FC" Mazda RX-7 continued the oddball rotary engine setup of the iconic first generation but with major revisions. It was produced from 1986-1988.

The body was all-new. Mazda made no secret it was inspired by the rival Prosche 944. Like a lot of other Japanese car designs of the '80s, the RX-7 is not at all original, but instead a sleek, strangely muted interpretation of German aesthetics. In some ways, it's astonishingly successful in that it really is better looking than the 944. For that, they definitely deserve some credit.

The rotary engine was situated in the front, but closest to the cockpit as possible for better weight distribution. Power was directed to the rear wheels. Naturally-aspirated engines produced anywhere between 146-160 horsepower. Turbocharged engines produced between 182-202 horsepower, pretty decent for the time.

The FC RX-7 was only 80 lbs. heavier than the previous generation.

It was met with critical and popular success. Over 270,000 were produced, with 86,000 sold in the first year alone. These are not rare cars by any stretch.

This version of the RX-7 is hard to find, however. It's a special 10th Anniversary Edition. These were made in 1988 to commemorate a decade since the launch of the original RX-7 in 1978. According to wikipedia they feature "Crystal White monochromatic paint scheme with matching white body side mouldings, taillight housings, mirrors and 16-inch alloy 7-spoke wheels. Another distinctive exterior feature is the gold rotor-shaped 10th Anniversary Edition badge on the fenders. The interior is all black with leather seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel (with 10th AE centerpiece) and genuine MOMO shifter and boot. Glass windows are bronze tinted."

In addition, the seller is offering up a pristine example with only 23,030 miles on the clock. The car looks stunning. The seller says it was only used as a weekend driver and has never been altered or modified in any way. They say the interior still smells new.

Only 1,500 10th Anniversary cars were made.

This is not going to go for cheap.

Find it here on ebay in Los Angeles, California with bidding at $11,100 and 5 days left.

Micro Traction: 1989 Mazda 323 GTX

This little Mazda is one of only 1,194 special cars built by Mazda to qualify for Group A rally car racing.

The 323 was your typical Japanese entry-level compact hatchback with front-wheel drive and four cylinder engines. Styling was decent, but overall the car was nothing spectacular.

That changed with the GTX. Mazda swapped the engine for a turbocharged and intercooled 16-valve unit producing 132 horsepower. Rigidy was strengthened and the track widened. Finally, all-wheel drive was added for superior road traction.

Some styling changes were added too, including a rear spoiler and alloy wheels.

Since so few were made and they are so desirable, finding any example, let alone a mostly untouched example, is almost impossible.

Fortunately, the seller of this vehicle says it's a 139k-mile survivor that has spent most of its life in New Mexico and has little rust as a result of the arid climate there. It also looks mostly stock, with no tacky tinted windows or aftermarket paint job. The seller says this has the analogue gauge package, a sunroof and cd player. They say the head was recently rebuilt and the transmission shifts smoothly, but the car is consuming some oil and may have a fuel pressure issue. The seller says a new job has left them with little time to tend to the car.

This is probably the most GTX you'll find out there, next to a pristine low mileage example which would command probably double or more. With some mechanical and cosmetic attention, it could continue to be a fun driver.

Find it here on craigslist in Minneapolis, Minnesota for $3,250.