April 1999 Volume 80 Number 4 "serving the protectors"
Mazda 323 - Refinement Aplenty
By Jim Barnett

Mazda’s new 323 Astina hatch is exhilarating to drive. And in the tradition of the 323, it still provides excellent performance and features a sporty body design and functional interior. Similarly, the new automatic Protegé sedan offers good performance and a smooth, quiet ride.

Both cars are available with either a 1.6-litre or 1.8-litre engine. The front wheels are driven by a smooth 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic transmission.

Astina and Protegé are available in two specification levels simply designated 1.6 and 1.8. The 1.8 is better equipped with such worthy additions as:

• Power windows and mirrors.
• Remote central locking.
• Passenger airbag.

The names suggest these cars are totally different, but in many respects they’re identical. Their commonalities include:

• Wheelbase (2610mm).
• Width (1705mm).
• Height (1410 mm).
• Front and rear track measurements (1470mm).

As a hatch, Astina is shorter overall than Protegé due to less rear overhang. And although 20mm shorter than its predecessor, Protegé still offers roomy interior and large boot space.

With its 1.8 automatic, Protege doesn’t drive with the same sporty feel as the manual Astina, but the engine has enough power to provide smart acceleration. The automatic transmission is smooth up and down the shifts, and road holding and braking are good.

The Astina is 40mm shorter than its predecessor, but its combined passenger and cargo space is 92mm longer. Its steering, road holding and braking are refreshingly precise.

Both cars’ interiors feature comfortable front and rear seats and ample space for four adults.

Excellent forward visibility is provided by the low dashboard and bonnet, large front windscreen and height-adjustable driver’s seat. All dashboard controls are within easy reach, and power window and mirror controls are conveniently located on the driver’s armrest.

The rear seat has a 60-40, split-fold design which incorporates integrated headrests and centre armrest.

A 4-speaker radio-cassette player is standard in all models. Astina’s audio system sounds good, but the Protegé 1.8 has larger rear speakers which offer richer sound quality.

Both cars tested by the Police Journal were equipped with the 1.8-litre, DOHC, multi-valve, EFI engine, which offers an excellent blend of power and economy. Pumping out 92kW at an easily-reached 6000rpm and 163Nm of torque, the engine pulls strongly with either transmission.

The 1.6-litre engine offers a competent 78kW at 5500rpm and 145Nm torque.

The suspension system consists of independent McPherson struts all around; the rear incorporates twin trapezoidal links.

Speed-sensing, power rack-and-pinion steering is standard, as is four-wheel disc brakes on 1.8 models.

All models feature 14 x 5.5 wheels, except the 1.8 Astina which sports 15 x 6.0 alloy wheels fitted with low-profile Michelin Pilot tyres for extra grip.

Without the original electro-magnetic key, 323’s sophisticated immobiliser makes starting the engine impossible. Additional security is provided by a declutching device on the steering shaft. The steering lock will rotate freely - but not break - if enough torque is applied to the steering wheel. This prevents the car from being steered.

Prices range from $20,990 to $27,340. Air conditioning and driver’s airbag are standard.

Cheaper small cars are freely available, but the new 323 range reinforces an old adage: “You get what you pay for”. These new Mazdas’ standard features and finish present extremely well. Their engineering and refinement are excellent and, from a driver’s point of view, offer plenty of driving pleasure.

Test cars from Mazda (SA), Rose Park.

PERFORMANCE •Air Conditioning •Immobiliser •Central locking •Power Steering •Rear Spoiler •1.6 litre 16 valve DOHC engine VALUE •Driver's side airbag •Power Steering•Central locking •Air Conditioning •Immobiliser •1.6 litre 16 valve DOHC engine   RACV best small car '98 Astina 738 Lower North East Rd Paradise SA 5075 Phone 08 8337 3377 Fax 08 8337 1393 New Model Protegé Sedan or Hatch from $20,999