The Mazdaspeed we've all been waiting for!!!!!!!!

[Gtek-i]

Specifications
Engine
Type: Turbocharged Inline-4
Displacement cu in (cc): 138 (2260)
Power bhp (kW) at RPM: 263(196) / 5500
Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM: 280(380) / 3000
Redline at RPM: 6700
Brakes & Tires
Brakes F/R: ABS, vented disc/disc
Tires F-R: 215/45 R18
Driveline: Front Wheel Drive
Exterior Dimensions & Weight
Length × Width × Height in: 175.1 × 68.8 × 57.1
Weight lb (kg): n.a.
Performance
Acceleration 0-60 mph s: < 6.0
Top Speed mph (km/h): 155 (250) - electronically limited
Fuel Economy EPA city/highway mpg (l/100 km): n.a.


Base Price: 2007 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 - n.a. (last update: 9/4/2006)

[Gtek-i]

Mazdaspeed3 is Kicking Asphalt and Taking Names

The 2007 Mazdaspeed3 is one of the fastest and quickest front-wheel drive cars in the world. With a zero-to-60 time under six-seconds and an electronically limited top-speed of 155 mph, Mazdaspeed3 is the class of the sport-compact “pocket-rocket” crowd.

The Mazdaspeed3 features a compact, lightweight five-door body paired with a 263-horsepower 2.3-liter DISI (Direct Injection Spark Ignition) Turbo engine, giving it a best-in-class power-to-weight ratio and making it one of the highest performing front-wheel drive cars in the world.

Power and Handling

Under the hood of the Mazdaspeed3 is a version of the turbocharged and intercooled 2.3-liter four-cylinder direct-injection gasoline engine that powers the highly regarded Mazdaspeed6 sport sedan and the CX-7 crossover SUV. Engineered to deliver high performance at all speeds, along with low exhaust emissions and excellent fuel economy, Mazda’s MZR 2.3 DISI turbocharged engine produces 263 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 280 lb-ft torque at 3,000 rpm in the Mazdaspeed3.

Key engine components include aluminum block and head construction with forged steel internal components — crankshaft and connecting rods — for long-lasting durability, while balance shafts help eliminate noise and vibration. A large air-to-air intercooler and direct fuel injection cool temperature inside the cylinder.

Sophisticated Torque Management

To increase drivability and minimize torque steer and wheel spin in what is a very powerful front-wheel drive car, a sophisticated torque-management system combines with equal-length hardened driveshafts and a cone-type Super LSD limited slip differential.

High Body Rigidity and Specially Tuned Chasis

Like the 2007 Mazda 3, the new Mazdaspeed3 features a body with increased rigidity. The Mazdaspeed version is based on the Mazda 3 5-Door hatchback, with local reinforcements added to produce a body sufficiently stiff to stand up to the demands of 263 horsepower. Suspension and brakes have also been specially tuned.

Body rigidity has been increased through several measures, including a reinforced front cowl that is joined directly to the top section of the front damper mount, assuring the same rigidity as a car fitted with a strut tower bar (which would not have been possible because of the placement of the intercooler above the engine). This prevents deformation of the front suspension towers under cornering load and maintains correct suspension geometry.

Mazdaspeed Design DNA

Mazdaspeed3 's styling pursues a look of strength and solidity in a design that conveys the car's dynamic performance. Its form is characterized by boldly flared front fenders and effective use of strong edges on the hood. These combine with the functional forms of the bumpers, spoilers and other parts developed for aerodynamic performance. Overall, Mazdaspeed3's design is sporty and strong, befitting a high-performance model, without exaggerated styling cues.

Interior Design

Mazdaspeed 3 ’s cockpit is a harmonious synthesis of functional sportiness and stylish comfort. A high-quality black finish sets the tone of the interior, accented by red stitching on the seats, steering wheel, and the shift boot to create a sporty yet refined look. The instrument panel includes a matte black decorative insert panel finished with a hairline treatment to underscore the vehicle’s personality. A leather-wrapped shift knob, aluminum pedals and stainless steel scuff plates further contribute to the sporty, high quality feel that distinguishes Mazdaspeed models, while front sport seats with the Mazdaspeed logo – developed specifically for the Mazdaspeed3 – on the seatbacks provide firm support and comfort.

[carsnut]

doesn't sound too bad. adds up to all the hot hatches out there

[johnnyperl]

280lb-ft through FWD when Mazda has an excelent AWD powertrain?! Could have been a great car. Its slower to 60 than a WRX which has less power.

[mmm_aapls]

280lb-ft through FWD when Mazda has an excelent AWD powertrain?! Could have been a great car. Its slower to 60 than a WRX which has less power.

And it is slower around a track. they said is was going to kick the WRX, but in reality it is just not as fast.

[Spastik_Roach]

Wheels don't look aggressive enough. Somewhat disappointing considering how good it could've been.

[Machalel]

It's slower due to wheelspin, given a rolling start it's faster.

They didn't use their AWD platform, as that would add about 200kg of weight (not to mention $$$ on the price), and then you have exactly the same thing as the Mazda 6 MPS, except in a smaller-hatch body.

The car is supposed to be a hot-hatch, not a turbo AWD circuit car like the WRX or Evo. It is more aimed towards the Golf GTi, Clio Sport/Megane Turbo, Ford XR5, etc.


It's not dissapointing once you drive it... trust me!

[Blue Supra]

in bang for your buck though. its a pretty good buy for what you get.

BTW: theyre for sale in Aus now and theyre the Mazda 3 MPS.

[ScionDriver]

I like it!

[mattmacklind]

I like it too.

[Gtek-i]

It's slower due to wheelspin, given a rolling start it's faster.

They didn't use their AWD platform, as that would add about 200kg of weight (not to mention $$$ on the price), and then you have exactly the same thing as the Mazda 6 MPS, except in a smaller-hatch body.

The car is supposed to be a hot-hatch, not a turbo AWD circuit car like the WRX or Evo. It is more aimed towards the Golf GTi, Clio Sport/Megane Turbo, Ford XR5, etc.

you really just read my mind

[johnnyperl]

It's slower due to wheelspin, given a rolling start it's faster.

So which series will this be racing in that its going to have a rolling start?

[PerfAdv]

Very versatile car and finally fast enough.

[Machalel]

So which series will this be racing in that its going to have a rolling start?

errr... the "driving on the road and want to overtake etc" series?

[Dino Scuderia]

I stopped by the Mazda dealer yesterday...they had two 2007 regular 3's on the lot, the new rims on those look better than the Mazdaspeeds do.

Also they've toned down the seat inserts which are either red or blue depending on what color car you choose, this is a good move...before those inserts were a bit obnoxious.

They didn't have any '07 brochures yet and the Mazda web site isn't updated yet so I don't know what the new colors are.

I am seriously considering a 3 but I don't need the Mazdaspeed, the 3 is a great car for $19,000 to 23,000 depending on the trim level. The M'speed will of course be more than that.

As an aside...they had 5 M'speed 6's on the lot...I'm wondering if they aren't selling very well.