Highly rigid body
The basic development concept for the body shell of the all-new Mazda 3 was to improve the overall balance of the body's rigidity and ensure it firmly absorbs the reaction force of the dampers. To this end, particular attention went to reinforcing the area around the front and rear suspension mounts and the joint sections in each corner, which are subject to greater stress. Structural adhesive was used to strengthen the joints for the front and rear suspension towers, and spot welding was added to reinforce the joints of the door openings. The result is a substantial improvement in rigidity and body hysteresis (the degree of car body deformation due to repeated applications of torsional load).
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The Little Engine That Could
The Miata started its life with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that grew to 1.8
liters in 1994 and 2.0 liters with the current (third) generation in 2004.
Tweaks over the years, including the addition ...
Before Getting In
- Be sure the windows, outside mirrors,
and outside lights are clean.
- Inspect inflation pressures and
condition of tires.
- Look under the vehicle for any sign of
fluid leaks.
- If you plan to ...
WindshieldWipers and Washer
The ignition must be switched ON.
WARNING:
Use only windshield washer fluid or
plain water in the reservoir:
Using radiator antifreeze as washer
fluid is dangerous. If sprayed on the
windshield, ...