Mazda MX-3
The world's smallest mass-production V6 in a compact, agile kammback body.
- Power
- 130 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.2 s
- Top speed
- 126 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$14k
About the Mazda MX-3
The Mazda MX-3 is celebrated for its K8-DE engine, which at 1.8 litres was the smallest mass-production V6 in the world at launch. Designed to meet Japanese tax regulations while providing the smoothness of a larger engine, it features a variable-length intake manifold to optimise torque. The chassis uses Mazda's Twin-Trapezoidal Link (TTL) rear suspension, providing passive rear-wheel steering for enhanced agility. While it lacked the raw pace of contemporary hot hatches, its high-revving character and unique engineering have made it a cult classic of the Radwood era.
Mazda MX-3 specs
The Mazda MX-3 produces 130 bhp (97 kW) and 157 Nm (116 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.2 seconds and has a top speed of 126 mph (202 km/h).
| Make | Mazda |
|---|---|
| Model | MX-3 |
| Trim | 1.8 V6 |
| Years | 1991–1998 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $16,000 when new |
| Engine | 1.8-litre 24-valve V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,845 cc (1.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 130 bhp (97 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 157 Nm (116 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.2 s |
| Top speed | 126 mph (202 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,145 kg (2,524 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 114 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 MX-3 worth?
A typical Mazda MX-3 is estimated to be worth $4,500 – $14,000 (about £3,400 – £10,000).
Its original price when new was about $16,000.
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 MX-3 rarity in CarSpot
The Mazda MX-3 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 7 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 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 MX-3 fun facts
- The 1.8-litre V6 was developed to stay under the 2.0-litre threshold for Japanese road tax while offering the prestige of a six-cylinder engine.
- Its passive rear-steering suspension system, known as Twin-Trapezoidal Link, allows the rear wheels to toe-in during cornering to improve stability.
- The MX-3 was sold under multiple names globally, including the Eunos Presso and Autozam AZ-3 in Japan, and the Eunos 30X in Australia.