Mazda MX-3
The Mazda MX-3 is a quirky '90s sport compact best known for its tiny 1.8L V6 engine. It's an affordable and unusual alternative to the more common Japanese classics of the era.
Listings
The Mazda MX-3 was a front-wheel-drive 2+2 sport compact sold from 1991 to 1998. Based on the same platform as the 323/Protegé, its defining feature was the optional K8-DE engine. At just 1.8 liters, it's one of the smallest mass-produced V6 engines ever built, giving the MX-3 a unique character compared to its 4-cylinder rivals.
Collectors seek out the GS models equipped with the smooth, high-revving V6 and a 5-speed manual transmission. The car's distinctive '90s styling and rarity make it an interesting alternative to more mainstream options like the Civic or Integra. It offers a unique driving experience that’s becoming more appreciated by JDM enthusiasts.
The market for the MX-3 remains small and affordable. With only a handful of recent sales, it's clear the car is a niche collectible. Well-preserved, low-mileage V6 models fetch the highest prices, but they still represent an accessible entry point for '90s Japanese car collecting.
Buying Tips
- Check for rust in the rear quarter panels, wheel arches, and floor pans, as these are common problem areas.
- The 1.8L V6 requires a timing belt change every 60,000 miles; verify this service has been completed.
- Look for oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets and cam seals, which are frequent on the V6 engine.
- Interior plastics can become brittle and crack, and driver's seat bolsters often show significant wear.
- During the test drive, listen for grinding when shifting into gear, as transmission synchros can be a weak point.
Recent sales show prices ranging from about $3,400 for project cars to over $12,500 for top-condition examples.
67 Mazda MX-3 vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 16 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Mazda MX-3 listings are for sale right now?
There are 16 Mazda MX-3 listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.