2007 Mazdaspeed 3 – To Complete The Sequel

Mazda wanted to deviate from its customary car lineup so it has envisioned a performance car that is psyched to finally perfect the driving feel and experience. Mazda 3 is considered a big hit in the automotive industry. Nonetheless, it lacks speed and performance so Tatsuo Maeda, chief engineer of the automaker targeted said improvements and attached them to the recent member of Mazda clan.

2007 Mazdaspeed 3 boasts the advantage of 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbo unit, same as that of Mazdaspeed 6, which is capable of generating 64 horsepower, equivalent to 264 horses at 5500 rpm and 280 pound-feet of torque at 3000 rpm. Said performance translates to a 0-to-60 time and a top speed of 149 mph.

Mazda tapped on power. The latter comes on from 2500 rpm and stays sizzling all through the 6750-rpm redline. The linear torque response is analogous to that of a bold V-6 than a turbo four. The slick six-speed manual transmission parts, on the other hand, are user-friendly.

Mazda engineers reinforced the driveshafts and built-in a specially tuned torque-sensing limited-slip differential to lessen wheelspin and torque steer. The chassis of Mazdaspeed 3 was also modified. Extra reinforcement was made around the floor, center tunnel and across the strut towers. The car was also given higher spring rates and thicker anti-roll bars. High-quality Bridgestone RE050A tires were also incorporated to complement the performance. Further, brakes and calipers were also made similar to Volvo S60.

Mazdaspeed 3 gets slight upgrades in its bumpers, rear roof spoiler and grille to achieve a sportier look. The interior gets a two-tone trim, red stitching, aluminum pedals and leather steering wheel and gear-shifter. Said interior is inspired by European design and feel.

The latest contribution of Mazda to the automotive world was honed in Germany. Its suspension and chassis was reinforced to boost the car’s attributes. Moreover, the ride quality is superb that it can serve as a serious competition to GTI. Mazdaspeed 3 is priced at $23,000 and it will be available this coming fall.

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