Gen1 vs Gen2

[LHMS3]

Another dumb question from the new guy.......I see references in vendor literature/websites for MS3 Gen1 and Gen2. What's the difference?

 

[batou079]

for the MS3.
gen one ended in 2009.
gen two started in 2010.

differences are largely aesthetics, body style changes.
slight upgrades in suspension.
and ver few minor changes to power & drive train. but same basic engine.

 

[Kain]

 

[LHMS3]

Ah, I see.....glad I have a gen1!

 

[Chiller]

+1

 

[horNNEE]

yeah WOOOOF!

 

[destrux]

I dunno.... I'm starting to like the super happy face edition mazdaspeed3. Not that I'm running out to trade or anything.

 

[GoFast]

I dunno.... I'm starting to like the super happy face edition mazdaspeed3. Not that I'm running out to trade or anything.

Im with ya

 

[Saskatchewan17]

It's alright... growing on me for sure. They look good when nicely modified (like the SU car).

 

[oaklandopen]

It's alright... growing on me for sure. They look good when nicely modified (like the SU car).

only the sedan was the better looking of the 2

 

[mortimersnerd]

Nope, still mostly fugly. Too bad, too, because I like everything about the styling except the stupid face.

 

[jv92red]

2010 MS3 received:

base MSRP up $455
weight gain = 90 pounds
revised steering rack (new electromechanical assist)
restyled rear fascia w/dual exhaust outlets (I like the update here)
ugly front fascia (not so much)
new interior: dash and trim
different seats: red dot dizzy pattern with less lateral support and less cushioning (no more Alcantara leather)
stupid happy face front bumper
Hood scoop
new wheels with wider tires
hideous front end styling (You listening Mazda?)
stiffer dampers and stiffer rear sway bar
revised 2-5 gear ratios (slightly longer)
re-profiled electronic transverse differential lock (Torque steer management)


I'm sure I missed some stuff and/or maybe got some of this wrong (facts obtained from magazines and from forum searching so not sure how accurate they are). Feel free to correct the facts but not my opinions.

That's about it.

Oh wait, did I mention how Mazda designers really achieved full fail on the front end styling of this thing? Truly Hideous. (blarf)

 

[viper117630]

Just cant get over the new styling. Looks best from the side but I cant stand the new front end, or the rear for that matter. Tail lights are horrible IMO. And whats up with the new interior?? Anyway, like the hood scoop, dual exhaust, wider wheels, and the new electronics package. Thats about it.

 

[mortimersnerd]

I do want the longer 2-5 transmission gears. I spend a fair amount of time at 80.