Used 2004 Mazda 6
Buying Guide for the Mazda 6:
Though Mazda has been around since 1920, its vehicles weren’t
available in the US until 1970. Eventually, the sound engineering
of Mazda models caught the eye of Ford, who purchased a controlling
interest in the company and brought its stable to full bloom
in America.
The Mazda 6 is one such model that Ford has no trouble pushing.
It is a compact car that really has the size and strength
to be a midsize model. Offered in sedan form for now, there
is word that the 6 will be available as a coupe and as a four-door
hatchback as early as the spring of 2004.
So if you can’t decide between a compact sedan and a midsize
model, but like the price and tight handling of the former
type, the Mazda 6 is right up your alley. It is speedy, comfortable
and safe—all points that are decidedly good when car shopping.
Under the Hood
There are two lower-case named trims, and they each have
their own engine. The base i model is fitted with a 2.3-liter
inline 4-cylinder engine that produces 160 horsepower at 6000
rpm and 155 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. Two transmission
types are offered: 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic.
Uplevel s models are quicker out of the blocks thanks to
a 3.0-liter V6 engine. It gives the compact sedan a very un-compact-like
amount of strength: 220 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 192 lb-ft
of torque at 5000 rpm. It can also be had with either manual
or automatic transmission.
The Mazda 6 uses a 4-wheel independent suspension configuration
to handle the dips and bumps in the road. The s model also
has traction control and advanced antilock 4-wheel disc brakes
in its standard package.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The five-passenger Mazda 6 comes nicely appointed, and it
is made available with a number of options packages that really
spice things up.
For style points, there’s a Sport Package. It includes a
titanium-colored interior trim, body cladding, an available
rear spoiler, dual exhaust outlets and a fog light.
If you’re more into interior comfort than looks, the Luxury
Package will most certainly catch you eye. Included with it
are heated front seats and mirrors, leather upholstery and
an 8-way power driver seat.
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