Help me fit in a Mazda 3

[Therealedwin]

So here is the deal, I'm car shopping and one of the few cars I fit into is a Mazda 3. I wear anything from a 14 wide shoe to a 16 wide, depending on manufacturer. I noticed that while checking the Mazda 3 my shoe kept clipping the brake when I was trying to hit the gas. That's a very bad thing to happen when I am driving.

Question:

Is the spacing on the brakes different from the Sport, to Touring and Grand Touring models? If not is there a way to easily mod the spacing to give me a bit more room?

Thanks.

 

[flash75]

I suspect spacing is the same in all models, there may be a difference between the automatic and manual pedals. I have only driven the 2008 automatic I purchased.

I wear wide 13-14 shoes and would have the problem with normal shoes, I heve been wearing Simpson racing shoes for several years. They don't have a wide sole like most of the shoes sold in the local stores. I found three pairs on sale at Simpson Motorsports. That may not be an option for you, they only had one size 14 when I was there. They are nomex lined and you feet get warm in the summer but I have found them very comfortable for driving.

I haven't looked but it should be possible to remove the pedal and bend it enough to provide some additional clearance. Another option would be to cut off the pad and move it to the left and weld it. If that option is considered be sure to find a well qualifed welder.

Good luck, I hope you can get it worked out.

Clifton

 

[SuperStretch]

I'm about 6'10-11" and wear size 18 shoes and I drive an '08 sedan gs. At first I had to get used to the pedal being so close, but now my foot/leg have developed memory so it's no problem. You have to just get used to having your foot as far right on the gas pedal as possible. I did notice troubles at first, but with practise, you too can drive a mazda 3!
eric

 

[RatLabGuy]

I haven't ever looked at my Protege5, but on many cars, if you look at the backside of the pedal assembly, the pedal can be removed from the swing arm (e.g. a few bolts holding it on).

People swap out pedals for snazzy racing ones all teh time, so it can't be too difficult.
Anyway, I'd bet that w/ minimal effort, you could drill new holes or otherwise relocate the pedal(s) on the arms to they are a more comfy distance from one another.

my wife is only 5' tall and only wears a size *2* shoe.
She has found that on many cars, she has a related problem, w/ the pedals being to high off the floor... she can't press the gas AND keep her heel on the floor, w/o having the seat in a really awkward position.