Mazda 1500
A sophisticated Japanese saloon with timeless Italian styling by Bertone.
- Power
- 78 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 16.1 s
- Top speed
- 93 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$14k
About the Mazda 1500
The Mazda 1500, known internally as the Luce, was a pivotal model that elevated Mazda's global reputation through its collaboration with the Italian design house Bertone. Styled by a young Giorgetto Giugiaro, its elegant, low-waistline design was originally intended for Alfa Romeo before being adopted by Mazda. It featured a refined overhead-cam engine and a spacious, well-appointed interior that rivalled European contemporaries. While not a performance car, its balanced handling and robust build quality made it a significant success in export markets like Australia and Europe.
Mazda 1500 specs
The Mazda 1500 produces 78 bhp (58 kW) and 118 Nm (87 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 16.1 seconds and has a top speed of 93 mph (150 km/h).
| Make | Mazda |
|---|---|
| Model | 1500 |
| Trim | 1.5 |
| Years | 1966–1973 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $2,100 when new |
| Engine | 1.5-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,490 cc (1.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 78 bhp (58 kW) at 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 118 Nm (87 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 16.1 s |
| Top speed | 93 mph (150 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,015 kg (2,238 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 77 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mazda 1500 worth?
A typical Mazda 1500 is estimated to be worth $4,000 – $14,000 (about £3,000 – £10,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,100.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mazda 1500 rarity in CarSpot
The Mazda 1500 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mazda 1500 fun facts
- The 1500's design was originally a 1962 Bertone concept for Alfa Romeo, which explains its distinctly European aesthetic compared to other Japanese cars of the era.
- It was the only front-engine, rear-wheel-drive Mazda to ever carry the 'Luce' name, as subsequent generations moved towards different layouts or rotary power.
- In the Japanese market, the 1500 was marketed as the 'Luce', which is Italian for 'light', reflecting its airy and elegant glasshouse design.
