Mazda MX-6 Coupe (1991-97)
The first MX-6 was a renamed 626 coupe with extra bulges in the sides but then it was transformed into a striking V6 coupe that hid its 626 origins. High build quality and styling that still looks fresh keeps it on cool cat shopping lists. Joe Kenwright lHISTORY:
The first MX-6 was a two-door 626 with fender blisters and turbo power until November 1991 when sleek, new MX-6 arrived that was wider, lower and longer.
Stiff $44,000 pricetag with powerful V6 and four-Wheel Steering (4WS) lined it up against Honda Accord, not Camry-based Celica. Price hikes forced Mazda in September 1994 to split MX-6 into simpler $40,000 two-wheel steer (2WS) model and updated full house 4WS model close to $50,000.
Local MX-6 deliveries were built in Japan but Ford Probe version came from joint US facility where MX-6 was also built. Deliveries ended in 1997 as Mazda entered bland period.
PRICES:
Complexity and high parts costs forces high mileage examples as low as $10,000 while $20,000 should buy a sharp, low mileage early 4WS or late 2WS example with the best and last 4WS models fetching around $25,000.
CHECK IT OUT:
Classic lines haven’t dated when MX-6 was spared period retractable lights and looks more like the latest MX-5.
Expanses of expensive, painted plastic generate huge repair costs or bodged repairs. Low clearance, long front and rear overhangs generate underbody damage with careless owners.
Complex, all-alloy V6 can hide expensive problems if cam belt, coolant and oil changes are neglected. Worn valve stem seals will generate smoky idle. Original distributor contains integrated coil and crank angle sensor for huge replacement cost but faulty parts can now be sourced separately.
Small 2.5-litre V6 must be worked like a peaky four hence manual version is better. Hard-working auto can suffer shift shock, flared changes and other woes and is expensive to fix.
Rear steering on 4WS models is combination electronics and hydraulics with straight ahead lock-up facility if they fail. Check that it works as repairs can be expensive but it is worth having as it tightens up steering and reduces understeer.
Premium V-rated 205/55 R15 87V tyres wore quickly and cost a fortune hence cheaper substitutes that may contravene roadworthy and insurance requirements. With 121 kW, 1250 kg and 0.30 Cd, the MX-6 is quicker than it looks and needs good rubber.
All wheel disc brakes now ready for expensive rotor replacement. Check for leaky dampers, broken engine mounts and damaged/burnt-out exhaust.
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