| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1980 |
| Production Years: | 1980 - 1985 discontinued in 1985 |
The Mazda 323 II Hatchback (BD), produced between 1980 and 1985, represents a classic example of early 1980s compact hatchback design. This generation of the Mazda 323 was engineered to provide efficient urban mobility and practical daily usability. With its hatchback configuration, the 323 II offered versatility in cargo space and passenger accommodation, making it a popular choice for city drivers and small families. The car's size was characterized by its compact dimensions, typically suited to tight parking spaces and narrow streets. Although precise measurements may vary slightly depending on market specifications, this generation generally featured a length of approximately 3.9 meters (around 153 inches), a width near 1.6 meters (approximately 63 inches), and a height close to 1.35 meters (about 53 inches). These dimensions placed it solidly in the compact hatchback category, balancing maneuverability with interior space. The 323 II was also recognized for its lightweight construction, contributing to fuel efficiency and nimble handling. Its hatchback body style enhanced practicality, allowing for flexible loading options compared to traditional sedans. Throughout its 1980-1985 production run, the Mazda 323 II Hatchback established itself as a reliable, economical vehicle that embodied the trends and consumer needs of its era. Its combination of size, design, and utility makes it a noteworthy model for enthusiasts and those interested in vintage practical hatchbacks.
Discover the standout features that make the 1980 Mazda 323 II Hatchback a leader in its class
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The Mazda 323 II Hatchback (BD), produced from 1980 to 1985, measures approximately 3,845 mm (151.4 inches) in length, 1,595 mm (62.8 inches) in width, and 1,320 mm (51.9 inches) in height. These compact dimensions make it a practical hatchback for urban driving, offering a balance between interior space and exterior maneuverability.
The wheelbase of the Mazda 323 II Hatchback (BD) is about 2,305 mm (90.7 inches). A longer wheelbase generally contributes to better ride stability and comfort by reducing pitch and enhancing straight-line tracking. This length provides a balanced combination of agile handling and comfortable ride, especially notable in compact hatchbacks of its era.
The curb weight of the Mazda 323 II Hatchback (BD) is approximately 825 kg (1,819 lbs). This relatively light weight contributes to its nimble handling and fuel efficiency. Light vehicles generally accelerate more quickly and can maneuver easier, making the 323 BD a responsive car well-suited for city driving and short commutes.
The Mazda 323 II Hatchback (BD) offers a compact yet functional interior space designed to accommodate four to five passengers comfortably. While specific interior volume figures are not widely documented, the hatchback layout helps maximize cabin utility and cargo space versatility, which is typical of hatchbacks from the early 1980s, balancing passenger comfort and practicality.
The Mazda 323 II Hatchback (BD) features a modest cargo area typical of subcompact hatchbacks. The rear seats can usually fold down, significantly expanding cargo capacity for transporting larger items. While exact liters or cubic feet figures are scarce, the hatchback design inherently offers more flexible storage options compared to traditional sedans of the same period.
Yes, the Mazda 323 II Hatchback (BD) fits well within a standard garage. Given its compact length of around 3.85 meters (12.6 feet) and width of 1.6 meters (5.3 feet), it occupies less space than many modern vehicles. Standard garages, which typically measure about 6 meters (20 feet) in length and 3 meters (10 feet) in width, provide ample room for the 323 BD, including space for opening doors and maneuvering.
Compared to its predecessor, the first-generation Mazda 323, the 323 II (BD) hatchback saw an evolution in design with slightly more refined and compact dimensions. The BD generation is generally similar in length but offers improved interior layout and potentially a more efficient use of space. These subtle changes aimed to enhance drivability and appeal in the highly competitive subcompact market of the early 1980s.
In comparison to contemporaries like the Volkswagen Golf Mk1 or Toyota Corolla E70 hatchbacks, the Mazda 323 II Hatchback (BD) is quite competitive in size. It tends to be slightly shorter and narrower than the Golf Mk1, which measures about 3,990 mm (157 inches) in length and 1,630 mm (64 inches) in width, making the 323 BD a more city-friendly option. Its compact size balances practicality and maneuverability common to hatchbacks of that era.
The Mazda 323 II Hatchback (BD) was typically equipped with small-displacement inline-four engines ranging from roughly 1.3 liters to 1.6 liters. These engines were designed to deliver reliable performance and fuel economy rather than high power outputs, making the car an economical choice for daily urban and suburban driving. The lightweight design further complemented its modest power by ensuring responsive handling and decent acceleration for its class.
The Mazda 323 II Hatchback (BD) generally employed a front independent suspension system with coil springs and a rear live axle with leaf springs— a common setup for compact cars in the early 1980s. This configuration contributed to a comfortable ride on urban roads while maintaining sufficient stability and control. Though not a sports suspension, it provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling for everyday driving needs.
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