Mazda 323 1.5

I bought my P reg Mazda 323 Innsbruck in April 2000 and have had it for seven years now and have not been disappointed. I can honestly say that it is RELIABLE! I wanted a Japanese car when I bought this one as I knew that they were reliable, but frankly some of them seemed 'fuddy duddy' (Honda) or boring (Nissan). When I saw this lovely, sporty hatchback it was love at first sight...

Anyway, seven years have gone by and I can report that apart from the usual tyres and exhausts, nothing has gone wrong. I've had seven years of happy motoring, and despite feeling that I should perhaps replace my old Mazda, I can't seem to part with her!

What I like about this car is that it seems very refined - electric windows, 3-way adjustable seats, electric sunroof etc. The bodywork has lasted well, and of course the engine goes and goes. Being a 1.5 litre engine means it isn't as powerful as I'd like and you really notice it when driving uphill, or trying to overtake.

This car is surprisingly roomy for a medium-ish sized car. The boot is great - I can fit my huge pram chassis in no problem.

My husband is very tall and finds the driving position (low) very difficult, and can't really get behind the steering wheel.

I have had a few minor problems with the brake lights - bulbs going more often than you might expect.

The steering wheel seems very 'thin' when compared to more modern cars, and the steering can feel a bit 'loose' somehow. I notice that the rear windows (which are not electric) often let in a few drops of water once in a while.

One of the quirky things I love about this car is that you can hook the petrol cap into a special slot rather than having to put it on the forecourt floor (a minor point I know!).

I also love the alloys, the trim (an unusual green/blue colour) the two internal lights plus light in the boot, and the green coloured dash (when lit up).

I intended to keep this car four or five years, after seven I think I'll just keep her until she stops, which I'm hoping will be a way off yet. She has been fantastic value for money, and I would definitely buy a Mazda again. Zoom zoom zoom!