BODY
Mazda 323 However, the F took some of the features of its predecessors. Because although the styling is not so shocking anymore, it is still not known how to properly classify its body. Five-door hatch-back thanks to the big one, an additional side window at the rear gives the impression of a station wagon. However, this does not change the fact, that the shape of the car is more conservative, although dynamic and full of fashionable sharp lines. Trapezoidal headlights give the front part a bit of originality. The entire front clearly resembles the larger model 626. This typical procedure of making a lower-class vehicle similar to a higher-class car is to increase the prestige of the compact Mazda.. It succeeds all the more, that new 323 F was built on a floor plate 626 and belongs to the larger cars in its class. Partly has a European pedigree, the body was developed at the German design centre in Oberursel. However, this is not enough, to treat it as a European car.
INTERIOR
A glance is enough to say, that the interior of the new 323 F is decorated in a typical Japanese way. Everything is in its place here, but in this orderly world it is difficult to find even a hint of panache at the same time. However, plastics are of a good quality, just like upholstery. The finish presents a high level. Everything is solidly and precisely assembled. Objections can only be made to the not very careful silencing. However, the functionality of the passenger compartment is the most noticeable. In addition to lockers and drink holders, passengers have other amenities at their disposal. For example, the passenger seat can be folded down, getting a comfortable table. The rear seatback reclines, which will surely be welcomed by travelers on long journeys. The rear seat cushion can be moved within the range 16 cm, this makes it possible to enlarge the boot or more legroom for rear passengers. In fact, legroom is only sufficient then, when the seat is fully backed. The backrest of the rear seat can be divided and folded asymmetrically, but due to the non-liftable seat it is difficult to get extra flat luggage surface.
DRIVE SYSTEM
In a family variety 323 F we took a closer look at the engine with a capacity of 1,5 dm3. This power unit has two overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder. Thanks to the modern design, the capacity 1498 cm3 was enough to obtain considerable power 66 kW, completely enabling efficient driving of this compact car. The flexibility of the engine is not impressive, but it was kept at a fairly decent level. You don't have to reach for the gear lever too often. Anyway, it works precisely and lightly. Good dynamics does not usually go hand in hand with low fuel consumption. Mazda 323 However, F can boast very good results in this area. Average consumption during the level test 7,2-5-8,6 dm3 / 100 km in various road conditions is a good recommendation at times, when the fuel becomes more expensive day by day. When driving gently on the road at speeds 90-100 km / h the average can be obtained without difficulty 6,8 dm3.
CHASSIS
The chassis is Mazda's asset 323 F. The car drives confidently and precisely, having a slight tendency to oversteer. A lot of attention has been paid to the design of the suspensions, which pays off while driving. At the front, a classic McPherson system with a stabilizer was used, but the wishbones are attached to the subframe, for the benefit of stability and comfort. At the rear, the longitudinal and transverse wishbones and a stabilizer ensure good traction. The suspension elements are coil springs. There can be no objections to the steering system with well-chosen power assistance. On the other hand, the brakes arouse mixed feelings. They work quite average, even when they are cold. All you need is a quick drive through the city or a few kilometers of dynamic driving in the mountains, to notice a clear deterioration in their effectiveness.
Mazda 323 F is well prepared to act as a family car. It has a comfortable, Functional, well finished body, powerful and economical engine and suspension, safely driving the car in all conditions. If only the passenger compartment was quieter and the brakes strengthened, the image of this model would be almost perfect.