Mazdaspeed3 Info

[kyoo]

Hey guys

I was hoping you could point me in the direction for more info about the car - I know most of the stuff, like the specs for the car etc but what I'd like to know is:

- model updates from year to year
- packages and options available

etc.

I'm thinking about getting a used 2008-2009 MS3 as a daily driver.. Also is there a legitimate 1st vs 2nd gen thread floating around?

Thanks!

 

[Spoolme]

There were several updates made on the first gen for the 2008.5, 2009 model. THe interior, gauge cluster and trip computer are different. Mazda is thought to have updated the turbo and the crankcase. There are two models the sport and the GT. The GT gives you a higher quality interior, hid headlights, auto wipers, bose stereo.

 

[kyoo]

ah so i heard of this 2008.5 but I wasn't sure what it was - how do you tell between a 2008.5 and a regular 2008?

 

[jaxmazda5]

easiest noticable different IMO is the piano black trim in the interior added for the 2008.5. Then alcantara inserts I think?

 

[kyoo]

i see.. any other major differences between 2007 and 2009 when it comes to the grand touring model?

and any links to a 1st vs 2nd gen thread?

 

[Spoolme]

Yes, the interior is black in the new version and the GT will have the alcantara.

 

[kyoo]

i see..
no one has any big comments on first and second gen huh? that's usually a pretty big topic of discussion for car fanatics

 

[Hank3]

Package options were the same (Sport or GT...and then Navigation as an option).

08.5/09 - Alcantara inserts in seats, chrome interior door handles and e-brake button, silver glove box latch lever (instead of glove box color), white gauge needles instead of red, piano black interior trim, Mazdaspeed sticker above glove box, vanity mirror light, FL-22 coolant, and MP3 disc capability for stereo. Addition of Crystal White Pearl and Metropolitan Gray in place of Cosmic Blue and Silver.

That's all I can think of for now.

 

[Spoolme]

Not a big fan of the smiley face on the 2010 model. Read that it has taller gears and an inproved suspension. If you are modding, several parts are still in development.

 

[8.5MS3]

i see..
no one has any big comments on first and second gen huh? that's usually a pretty big topic of discussion for car fanatics

2nd gen gearing is slightly longer, but hindered by final drive so the difference is negligible.

2nd gen has gained roughly 100lbs.

looks are a personal preference.

no "gt" package w/ led lights & leather for gen 2

 

[kyoo]

good info - so you guys don't think the aftermarket has 'ditched' the first gen chassis?

thanks for the info about the final drive, i was thinking that the taller gearing would be advantageous but i guess not.

i'm planning on leaving the car completely stock

I'm just curious because most reviews have toted the 2010 as being an overall completely better car than the old..

 

[8.5MS3]

good info - so you guys don't think the aftermarket has 'ditched' the first gen chassis?

chassis/engine are the same, its just a sheetmetal facelift (no pun intended) and revised ecu tuning

i'm planning on leaving the car completely stock

HAHAHA thats not going to happen

 

[SRTie4k]

I'm just curious because most reviews have toted the 2010 as being an overall completely better car than the old..

Where'd you read that? The gen1 took numerous awards for best budget sport compact every year since it's been released.

The gen2 may handle marginally better, but that's about the only thing most reviewers praise over the gen1.

 

[kyoo]

chassis/engine are the same, its just a sheetmetal facelift (no pun intended) and revised ecu tuning


HAHAHA thats not going to happen

lolol it's gonna be my dd, I've got a 380whp evo ix that I plan on continuing to mod. Otherwise, i'd completely agree haha

thanks for that info tho, i did NOT know the chassis was the same.. that makes it a different story.. there must have been some strengthening or anything though?

 

[kyoo]

Where'd you read that? The gen1 took numerous awards for best budget sport compact every year since it's been released.

The gen2 may handle marginally better, but that's about the only thing most reviewers praise over the gen1.

I mean yea, the handling is better, as well as the ride and then I guess stuff about livability/ergonomics? I forget which ones I've read, I've read em all pretty much

 

[mckraut]

I'm just curious because most reviews have toted the 2010 as being an overall completely better car than the old..

Not sure where you're getting your info.

 

[Spoolme]

No, there are several companies still working on the first gen and starting to make some progress with the second gen. Check out PT-performance, Race Roots and CP-e. *************** is a great place to buy parts.

Wow... Really!

 

[kyoo]

Not sure where you're getting your info.

http://www.insideline.com/mazda/mazdaspeed3/2010/2010-mazdaspeed-3-full-test-and-video.html

http://www.roadandtrack.com/tests/updates/2010-mazdaspeed3

here are a couple - most of the stuff i've read is from physical magazines, i really don't know how to find everything online.. it's just the general gist of what the articles have said

 

[79535]

I think what most of your decision is going to be based on is looks and price.

I have yet to drive the new model, but I imagine it is much the same beast the the 1st gen is.

 

[kyoo]

yea - if the new gen is worth the $x amount more. doesn't seem to be that way though