Overview & Reviews

There are affordable cars, and then there are cars that offer thrilling performance. Rarely do the two ever converge, but Japanese automaker Mazda has made it a tradition of coming up with vehicles that combine both of these eminently desirable traits.

The Toyo Cork Kogyo Company, founded in 1920 in Hiroshima, Japan, used the name "Mazda" for its first three-wheeled truck, built in 1931. Company founder Jujiro Matsuda chose the word "Mazda" because it was the name of the Zoroastrian god of good and light. Work on a small sedan began in the late 1930s, but development was halted so the company could pitch in with Japan's war effort. In the wake of World War II and the rebuilding that followed, the company refocused its efforts on car development and manufacturing.

By 1960, the first Mazda automobile -- the R360 coupe -- was developed, and the company's foray into the production of passenger vehicles began in full force. Other landmark developments were soon to follow. In 1961, the company entered into a technical partnership with NSU and Wankel to develop and produce rotary engines, a union that led to Mazda's distinguishing itself as the only manufacturer to offer three engine configurations: conventional gasoline piston, diesel and rotary. The '60s also saw the introduction of the company's first pickup, the B-Series 1500, as well as its first rotary-engine vehicle, the 110S Cosmo Sport.

Mazda began selling cars in the U.S. in 1970. In the early part of the decade, the automaker rolled out the RX-2. Powered by the noted 12A rotary, the RX-2 introduced America to Mazda's effort to build cars that were affordable and fun to drive. The decade also saw the introduction of the RX-3, RX-4 and now iconic rotary-powered RX-7 sports car. In 1979, Ford Motor Company purchased a 25 percent stake in Mazda after the Japanese company encountered a number of financial difficulties.

The 1980s was a decade of rebirth for Mazda. The company officially took on the Mazda name (though all its vehicles since its launch in the '20s have carried that brand). It also witnessed an upswing in sales sparked by successful new products like the 323 (which was first called the GLC in the American market) and 626. The 1990 model year saw the launch of a car that would prove a huge hit for Mazda: the MX-5 Miata. Lauded for its ultra-responsive handling and affordability, the drop top has been a consistent favorite, and now holds the distinction of being the world's best-selling roadster.

Mazda began the 1990s with a bang by winning Le Mans with the 787B; it was the first time a Japanese automaker had won the prestigious race, and marked the only win for a rotary engine. Vehicles like the RX-7 and MX-5 Miata scored kudos from automotive journalists, and landed on many top 10 lists. However, save for the Miata, the company's vehicles experienced declining sales in the U.S., and the company's fortunes suffered as a result.

The new millennium has seen Mazda regain its stride, as the automaker has invested in new development. Models like the Mazda 2 and CX-9 have broadened the lineup and won over a whole new generation of fans, while the enthusiast-oriented RX-8 and Mazdaspeed performance models have exemplified the company's spirited philosophy. Most recently, Mazda has focused on designing its cars to be as fuel-efficient as possible while also still being fun to drive and affordable to own.

User Reviews:

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  What an excellent car! - 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By O.J. - May 28 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Miata, my first being a 93. I have found this car to be a dream to drive. It is fun, reliable, and simple. Aftermarket accessories abound, and its easy to work on yourself. They are not expensive, and no other car has such an enthusiastic following. It is simply the most fun you can drive!

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  Unbelievable! - 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By MWi1068196 - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Took delivery of my new 2003 Miata SE in Strato Blue Mica on 5/28/04. Had a 2003 Tribute ES V6 and loved it, but the looks of the Miata, plus what I knew about the features, reliability, and quality of the car made my decision to trade an easy one. Ive never owned a convertible before, but its been an easy adjustment, even though I dont have room to haul much of anything. For me, thats a minor trade-off. This being my third Mazda, I can honestly say that Mazda now has a customer for life. Ive had the top down most of the time and get plenty of comments on my great looking SE. Looking forward to enjoying it for many years to come!

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  Dont buy Mazda - 2004 Mazda MPV
  By NOtoMAZDA - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Purchased my minivan in 03, after researching several makes I thought the reviews for Mazda gave the impression it was a reliable Japanese quality minivan, was I wrong. After shelling out over $32000 with the Mazda assurance plan that it will provide a free loaner vehicle for warranty work, they make a real inconvience to get one and hit you with a copay. Warranty work is not done the 1st time and if they work on more it more than twice you are responsible for paying the warranty work not Mazda. I still have defects that were never fixed. Looking for new vehicle, it wont be a Mazda!!

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  Most fun you can have with a family! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By roger rossetti - May 28 - 10:00 am

  great car extremely fun to drive, and beautiful to look at, only TRUE sports car you can own and have a family at the same time.

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  Car with Personality - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By dolphinsgrin - May 28 - 10:00 am

  When the lights blink at me when I say "Hello" with my keyless entry, I have to smile. Driving this car has brought me nothing but pleasure. From the way it feels sitting in the drivers seat, to the looks it gets at every red-light, Im in love with my car. Have yet to pull alongside a Mustang GT or Corvette, and not have them feel the need to prove themselves.

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  Second Time Around - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Paul Elliott - May 28 - 10:00 am

  In 1979 at the age of 25, I purchased my first RX7 and had it for 6 year, it was love a first sight. Now at 50 I purchased my second only it is an RX8. I love the style, freestyle doors, quality of build and that one of a kind ROTORY engine. I sometimes fail to turn on the 9 speaker Bose stereo just to hear that silky smooth "wherr" of the engine. I am in love again with the "coolest" sports car on the road.

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  Mid-Life Crisis Car with Kids - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By hornsby6 - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Having sold my RX-7 when my first child was born, I have been longing for the day when I could once again be driving a sports car. However, with more children, it was getting delayed, and delayed, and delayed. Now, I got my car, and it has 4 doors and a back seat.

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  zoom zoom - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By tweetienstyle - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I was one of the first people to get a rx8 in yellow..for the longest time I would get people turning heads giving me thumbs up and wanting to race..I love the car..it handles great..looks sharp..it didnt come with a rear spoiler so I had it added, which made the car so much more in looks! The only complaint is the gas milage..its a gas hog..

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  Are X 8 - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Randy Asbell - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Great car and fun to drive. You will not be disappointed with the performance! A real head turner.

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  Its been worth the wait - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By itsmine - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Performs like a dream and very forgiving. 6 Speed Manual is a blast to drive. Sexy car! Trunk space is adequate and more than expected from a sports car. Back seats, seat people comfortably with full back support. Regardless of having leather or fabric seats, they are comfortable and hug your body. Safety / crash test results are impressive (4 and 5 star).