Mazda MX-3

The Mazda MX-3 pocket rocket had one of the smallest V6 engines ever produced (1840 cc). In this trim, it produced 130 HP. The hatchback trunk and fold-down rear seats accomodates a surprisingly large amount of baggage, golf clubs, and furniture. It was also available with a 1.6L inline 4 engine.

The chassis was the same one used for the Mazda Protege. The V6 engine was a smaller displacement version of the 2.5L engine used in the Mazda MX-6 and Ford Probe. It accelerated spiritedly for an economy car, but it's amazing handling is what made it an entertaining driver's car.

Problems to watch for: shock dampers fail early; moisture in the spark plug recesses causes engine faltering and weak performance;