| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1985 |
| Production Years: | 1985 - 1991 discontinued in 1991 |
Precise measurements of the 1985 Mazda 323 III, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Tire Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Rims Size: | 5J x 13 ET45 |
| Tire Size: | 155/80 R13 82S (W:155 | H:80 | D:13) |
The Mazda 323 III (BF), manufactured between 1985 and 1991, is a compact sedan that blends efficient dimensions with practical usability. Known for its balanced proportions, the 323 III sedan features a compact footprint ideal for urban environments and everyday driving. While specific length, width, and height figures vary slightly by market and trim, this generation typically exhibits dimensions that sit comfortably within the compact car segment with an emphasis on maneuverability and ease of parking.
A key characteristic of the Mazda 323 III is its choice of wheels and tires, which contribute to both ride quality and handling. It rides on 13-inch rims sized at 5J x 13 with an offset of ET45, a specification suitable for standard compact car setups of the era. The tires fitted are 155/80 R13 82S, which deliver a balance of grip and comfort on various road surfaces. These tire proportions reflect the vehicle's compact and lightweight design philosophy, supporting not only fuel efficiency but also stable driving dynamics.
Weighing in as a typical member of the small family car segment, the Mazda 323 III (BF) sedan offers a straightforward and reliable choice for drivers seeking a functional vehicle for city and suburban use during the late 1980s decade. Its relatively modest size allows for easy maneuvering in tight spaces while maintaining sufficient cabin space for passengers and cargo. The 323’s design and engineering from this period highlight Mazda’s focus on producing dependable, practical cars with an emphasis on driver comfort and economic operation.
Overall, the Mazda 323 III (BF) stands out as a well-sized compact sedan from the mid-to-late 1980s, combining a compact footprint with usability. For enthusiasts and practical car buyers alike, its tire and rim specifications, alongside its production era features, provide important insights into the car's design priorities and capabilities.
Discover the standout features that make the 1985 Mazda 323 III a leader in its class
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The Mazda 323 III (BF) sedan has an overall length of approximately 4,275 mm (168.3 inches), a width of around 1,635 mm (64.4 inches), and a height of roughly 1,375 mm (54.1 inches). These measurements place it comfortably within the compact car segment of its time, offering a practical balance between interior space and maneuverability. These dimensions make it suitable for urban and suburban driving, providing ample space for passengers while maintaining a manageable footprint for parking and tight roads.
The wheelbase of the Mazda 323 III (BF) sedan measures approximately 2,430 mm (95.7 inches). A wheelbase of this length contributes significantly to the vehicle's ride quality by providing a stable platform that absorbs road imperfections more effectively. Additionally, a longer wheelbase generally enhances rear passenger legroom, improving overall comfort inside the cabin. For a compact sedan of the mid-1980s, this wheelbase measurement strikes a good balance between handling agility and passenger space.
The Mazda 323 III (BF) sedan typically weighs around 950 to 1,050 kilograms (approximately 2,094 to 2,315 pounds), depending on configuration and trim. This relatively lightweight design supports nimble handling characteristics and contributes positively to fuel efficiency, making the car economical to operate. The lower weight also helps the engine deliver adequate performance without requiring excessive power, suitable for the modest engine options available during its production period.
The standard tire size for the Mazda 323 III (BF) sedan is 155/80 R13 82S, mounted on rims sized 5J x 13 with an offset of ET45. The 13-inch rims and relatively narrow, high-profile tires are typical for compact cars from the mid-1980s, prioritizing ride comfort and economical tire costs over sporty handling. These wheel and tire dimensions contribute to a smooth ride and are generally compatible with common tire replacement options available today.
Yes, the Mazda 323 III (BF) sedan fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Given its length of approximately 4,275 mm (168.3 inches), width of 1,635 mm (64.4 inches), and height of 1,375 mm (54.1 inches), it occupies less space than many modern compact sedans or SUVs. Standard garages typically have interior dimensions of around 6 meters (20 feet) in length and 3 meters (10 feet) in width, providing ample room for the vehicle with space left over for easy access and storage.
Compared to its predecessor, the Mazda 323 II (BD), the 323 III (BF) saw an increase in length and width that reflected evolving design trends and interior space demands. While the older generation's length was roughly around 4,100 mm (161.4 inches) and width about 1,600 mm (63 inches), the BF generation grew to approximately 4,275 mm (168.3 inches) long and 1,635 mm (64.4 inches) wide. This progression provided more interior room and improved comfort while maintaining the nimble handling traits of its predecessor.
When compared with other compact sedans from the mid-1980s, such as the Toyota Corolla E80 and Honda Civic third generation, the Mazda 323 III (BF) holds its own with competitive dimensions. With an overall length of about 4,275 mm (168.3 inches), it is slightly longer than the typical Corolla (around 4,180 mm or 164.6 inches) and similar in width, contributing to a spacious interior relative to its class. Its compact height and lightweight design also made it an appealing option for buyers wanting balance between practicality and efficient driving dynamics.
The Mazda 323 III (BF) sedan offers decent interior space for a compact car of its era, with sufficient headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers. While exact interior measurements vary slightly depending on trim and seat configuration, the vehicle's exterior dimensions translate to pleasantly accommodating space, especially considering the design constraints of the mid-1980s. The car is well-suited for small families or daily commuting, offering a comfortable seating position without feeling cramped, albeit without the spaciousness of larger sedans.
The Mazda 323 III (BF) typically came with small displacement inline-four engines ranging from approximately 1.3 to 1.6 liters, reflecting the economy-oriented design philosophy of the car. Due to its relatively light curb weight of around 950 to 1,050 kilograms (2,094 to 2,315 pounds) and compact dimensions, the 323 III provided responsive handling and decent acceleration for urban and suburban driving. The size and weight helped maintain good fuel efficiency while offering a balanced ride quality suitable for its market segment.
The Mazda 323 III (BF) utilized a front MacPherson strut suspension setup combined with a rear torsion beam axle, common for compact sedans of its time. These suspension choices complemented the relatively small size and light weight of the vehicle, delivering a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The compact dimensions allowed for nimble maneuvering in tight city environments, while the chassis was robust enough to provide stability and confidence on open roads. The suspension design also kept production and maintenance costs reasonable.
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