Mazda3 vs. Ford ZX2

[DrumnBassDriver]

Hey...my gf's sister has an '03 Ford ZX2 and when driving it I could swear that it had some nice low-end tourque...but I figured the Mazda3 s would certainly beat it (we're talking about $12,000 compared to $17,000 and the 3 is supposed to be pretty quick) but then I looked at some specs and it seems that with the 2.0 with no variable-valve timing and 130 hp and 12 valves it might just beat the Mazda3...am I nuts? I thought the 3 was pretty fast for an under $20k car...but I'll be getting whupped by ZX2s everywhere I go...tell me it ain't true...I must be missing something....right?

 

[Matthew]

no offense, but the 3 isnt very fast at all. there are much faster cars for under 20k, so do expect to be running on everyone everywhere.

 

[Mazda3Zoomer]

no offense, but the 3 isnt very fast at all. there are much faster cars for under 20k, so do expect to be running on everyone everywhere.

yea, watch who you race.

the focus is also alot lighter and smaller i believe.

 

[RonH]

I owned a '98 ZX2 for 5 1/2 years before trading it on the Mazda. Both cars are ATX and my MZ3 is much faster than my ZX2 was, probably a 1/2 to 1 sec quicker in the 1/4. Now a manual ZX2 is much quicker than the atx.

The bad thing about the ZX2 is it's no more, done. End of production was last year. But, it was the most reliable new car I've ever owned. Never a trip to the dealer for any problem.

 

[SpicyMchaggis]

i waste focuses, zx2s, all that crap..but then again..when your running mid 15's..your not really 'wasting' anyone..its just a battle of who's slower.

 

[RODSCALIP5]

Zx2's are pretty quick, especially the MTX, and watch out fo rthe s/r versions. Once upon a time there was an Essingler ZX2 running 9's all motor, so the Zetec engine is real tunable and pretty strong. Not to mention it weighs around 2400 or maybe a little bit more.

 

[mdaj]

Yes. Although they may be down in power they make up a bit in weight. The S/R's come slightly modded from factory with Borla and Iceman intake (?). Suspension bits and I am not sure what else. I do remember a guy swapping a SVT Focus engine into the ZX2 while still keeping the low weight. edit- mmmmm zx2 Fusion.

Beware of sleepers and never underestimate anyone. They just might own you (fight)

 

[Glowspeedp5]

He paid all that money for an SVT focus motor to put into zx2.

Same motors just a little diffrent bolt ons. I would of spent the money on esslinger kit and been even faster than a svt focus....

 

[mdaj]

Yeah. He has a bulldog transmission, and other bits to go with it. Even with just the swap he would have been faster than the SVTF. Crazy things people do in the name of being an 'automotive enthusiasts'.

 

[RODSCALIP5]

Yes. Although they may be down in power they make up a bit in weight. The S/R's come slightly modded from factory with Borla and Iceman intake (?). Suspension bits and I am not sure what else. I do remember a guy swapping a SVT Focus engine into the ZX2 while still keeping the low weight. edit- mmmmm zx2 Fusion.

Beware of sleepers and never underestimate anyone. They just might own you (fight)

Yes, I wish Rousch would have gotten the go ahead to make this puppy, supercharger and everything. The ZX2 died because Ford was to cheap to upgrade the interior or at least make somewhat like the Focus. The low weight of the ride was so good.