So which of the two would you recommend? A 2007 model of each can be had for roughly the same money ($20k or under). I've driven both and it's a tough call since the cars are so similar.



good:
-very fast
-decent interior
-hatchback/utility

bad:
-crazy wheelspin & torque steer...FWD
-still just a 3 underneath




good:
-4WD
-heated seats & nav
-quiet ride

bad:
-not as fast/handling not as good
-blah interior


The Mazda forums basically just say the MS3 is for the young crowd who wants just the performance, and the MS6 is for the slightly-older crowd who wants something easy to drive day-to-day. The equipment in the cars is really close (HIDs, Bose stereo, 18" wheels, etc), with the 6 edging it out with stuff like nav and heated seats. The 3 does offer LED tails though.

The MS3 really does feel sportier and like a better "package", but the MS6 is definitely smoother and quieter for just driving around town and on the highways. The motor is the same and is pretty strong for both, though that stupid 5500rpm power drop is silly. I can live with it though.

After owning the S2000 I think I just want to go back towards something that's not as exhausting to drive and that is really easy to own. Sure, I will have to give up that bleeding-edge performance but I think I'll have to save that for when I can afford a weekend car.

Your two cents are always appreciated. :-)

 

I choose MS3. I considered that car for a while but decided that I'd miss the S but for the price its hard to beat.

 

Everything I've read says that the MS6 has problems with the rear end.

 

Really? Where did you read that? It's probably not made for clutch-dumps, so I bet there are a lot of dumbasses out there trying to launch it while street racing.

 

If you like the MS3 but are worried about the torque steer, go take a look at an 09 WRX.

 

Actually I'd love an older STI but they're really hard to come by, and I'm nervous that cops would single me out. The MS3/MS6 are pretty plain-jane and don't scream "pull me over" like a huge wing does.

 

How is this much more aggressive than an MS3?

 

I'm referring to the older STI sedans with the big wings (2005ish). I can't swing the payments on a new STI.

 

Why does it need to be an STI? New 09 WRX = 265 Hp/245 Tq and I got mine a month ago for 26k + TTL which isn't tons over an MS3 and i would imagine less than an MS6.

Anywho, maybe it's just not your cup of tea, just thought I'd suggest it...

 

you can always just take the wing off of the older STis...they'll blend right in with the imprezas

i would take an STi over the ms3 and ms6, just make sure the STi you find isn't beat to hell. do engine compression/leak down test before purchase.