Considering A MS3

[RotaryUser]

Hello everyone,
Here is the story. Right now I'm driving a Mazda Rx-8 which I have owned for 6 months and I love the car besides the fact that the rotary motor is basically a time bomb and could crap out any moment and that I'm lucky to get 21 MPG on the highway. I bought it because I couldn't afford a Subaru BRZ or WRX hatchback but now I'm starting to see its not a very friendly car as a daily driver. I have a few questions about the MS3, I'm currently looking at a 11 Silver MS3 with 48K miles. I'm curious about how reliable the car is, if anyone has gone from and rx8 to an ms3, and how the real world mpg is.


Thanks for looking.

[RotaryUser]

Anddddddd I just realized I posted this in the wrong area. Oops...

[JgamB]

With a boosted car, the MPG is dictated by your right foot. 30+ highway isn't uncommon, nor is 18mpg combined average for a street rapist. Considering how hard most of us push these cars, I'd say they're at least average on reliability, and a lot of that comes from owner involvement keeping an eye on your shit.

Go test drive one. They are fun in stock trim, and there's a lot of potential for more if you want to tap it.

[2k4_8]

I made that exact switch. I sometimes miss my rx8, I loved its balanced composure and revving to 10k. I premixed oil in mine so I don't miss that, or worrying about the apex seals and when they'd take a shit. Overall, I would do it again. I love the ability to mod this platform, the increase in fuel mileage, torque, and overall diverse use ability of this vehicle makes it worth it. I get high 28-30 on the highway, mid to low 20,s in the city.

[RotaryUser]

Originally Posted by 2k4_8 I made that exact switch. I sometimes miss my rx8, I loved its balanced composure and revving to 10k. I premixed oil in mine so I don't miss that, or worrying about the apex seals and when they'd take a shit. Overall, I would do it again. I love the ability to mod this platform, the increase in fuel mileage, torque, and overall diverse use ability of this vehicle makes it worth it. I get high 28-30 on the highway, mid to low 20,s in the city.

How was the switch from RWD to FWD. That to me is the biggest thing.

[Frenchy11]

Why don't you go test drive one and see? I like the RX8, nice looking and handling cars. But it just didn't have the kick in the pants that the ms3 does. Nor was it as practical.

But a bunch of opinions on the internet shouldn't mean much, you need to go drive one to see the difference.


Murica'

[Dat8687]

I got one.. Great car.. but if I was you, I would go with a 2015 WRX

[Benis]

If he's looking at an '11 MS3 then a '15 WRX is probably out of his price range.

[RotaryUser]

Originally Posted by Benis If he's looking at an '11 MS3 then a '15 WRX is probably out of his price range.

Yeah he's right. Well my Mazda dealer here doesn't have any in stock and the closest one is about 250 miles. Which is one I don't go out to just drive one.

[duffman04]

I might get destroyed for the suggestion but if you've already got the rx8 and the motor is the main concern, have you considered an LS motor swap. If you can get past the idea of a chev motor in a import the swap can be done for not a lot of money and still be very reliable. Then again its going to still take some work to do the swap and not everyone is up for that.

[Easter Bunny]

Originally Posted by Dat8687 I got one.. Great car.. but if I was you, I would go with a 2015 WRX

That definitely the dumbest thing anyone has said today.

There is literally no advantage to the wrx unless you are one of the idiots that thinks AWD is a good idea.

[helmetface]

Originally Posted by duffman04 I might get destroyed for the suggestion but if you've already got the rx8 and the motor is the main concern, have you considered an LS motor swap. If you can get past the idea of a chev motor in a import the swap can be done for not a lot of money and still be very reliable. Then again its going to still take some work to do the swap and not everyone is up for that.

And the LS would yield better mileage lol.

[mizboo102]

Originally Posted by helmetface And the LS would yield better mileage lol.

you'd think... but the right foot gets the best of you. Or at least it does to me.

They're as reliable as their previous owner's maintenance and modification history. The MS3 is a great car, I'd make the switch from the torque-less wonder that is the renesis motor.

Yes RWD is more fun than FWD but what is your percentage of fun driving to commuting/daily/boring driving? If you end up missing it, just buy a miata as a second car in the future.

[helmetface]

Originally Posted by mizboo102 you'd think... but the right foot gets the best of you. Or at least it does to me. They're as reliable as their previous owner's maintenance and modification history. The MS3 is a great car, I'd make the switch from the torque-less wonder that is the renesis motor. Yes RWD is more fun than FWD but what is your percentage of fun driving to commuting/daily/boring driving? If you end up missing it, just buy a miata as a second car in the future.

Oh, don't I know it.

I just hate the Renesis with a passion.

[eliwwjd]

The faster you go and test drive it, the more convince you will be if to go with a ms3 or something else. Now to be honest, this car is the best deal for the buck! There are many other aspects to consider when purchasing a car or swapping to another unit. Family, budget, main purpose of use etc.
For me this has been a great purchase and experience, why? I'll tell you why! because for 20K less I get car that has pretty much everything, besides AWD. WRX,STI and EVO are over 48K here in Puerto Rico. I got my car for 31K.Second, I'm a family guy so the four door is just right for those who want to go out with there family and feel comfortable vs. coupe style, but then again everybody has different taste. A car with plenty of potential. Just have to learn about the platform here with the guys at the forum, and you will be informed just about every aspect of the ms3. Dude again, just go and test the car! you won't regret it!

[Big Dog]

After playing in an MS3, RX8, a genesis 3.8 track, an STI, and even an EVO. For me the MS3 was chosen for the following reasons:

First, cost. I looked at the prices of them all and both the Subbi and the Evo where pricey no matter the dealer and I fell over when I saw insurance rates. (People forget when car shopping be sure to check this)

Second, I looked into the future and said if kids came into the picture or I wanted to take my dog with me on a long trip there is 4 doors and plenty of cargo space.

Third, I liked them all pretty equally. This cars purpose is a fun daily on my 75mile commute. I will agree with some of the guys above that AWD is pretty awesome I bought an MS6 because of the AWD, and the mod bug bit me. Now, FWD is fine unless you see snow for half the year, which then you might really benefit from awd but it's not crucial. So try not to get caught up in FWD vs AWD vs RWD. All have there place and havecome along way in the last 10yrs.

To answer your mpg question: I get 24mpg consistently in my GenPu. It's bone stock and about 70% highway. But I do drive it pretty hard every chance I get. With every car YMMV and maintenance on a direct injection motor is very important.

If this MS3 is at a Mazda Dealer try to get them to certify it as "Mazda Certified Pre-Owned" this will give you a 7yr/100,000 mile warranty on all major drivetrain components.

I bought my MS3 brand new so I bought the extra big ass bumper to bumper warranty for 5yr/100,000 miles. if you can get the warranty at dealer cost or close it may be worth while to get. Mine covers everything, is transferable, etc. If you're not going to mod it heavily a warranty can be a good idea/piece of mind. It is used and you really don't know how it was treated and a transmission or engine will cost a lot more than the warranty.

My MS6 was bought from the second owner and it still has a certified pre-Owned warranty for another couple months. I got a new turbo for free because of it. So try getting it certified, if they won't do it there is a reason and you should buy the extended warranty.

[eliwwjd]

Originally Posted by Big Dog After playing in an MS3, RX8, a genesis 3.8 track, an STI, and even an EVO. For me the MS3 was chosen for the following reasons: First, cost. I looked at the prices of them all and both the Subbi and the Evo where pricey no matter the dealer and I fell over when I saw insurance rates. (People forget when car shopping be sure to check this) Second, I looked into the future and said if kids came into the picture or I wanted to take my dog with me on a long trip there is 4 doors and plenty of cargo space. Third, I liked them all pretty equally. This cars purpose is a fun daily on my 75mile commute. I will agree with some of the guys above that AWD is pretty awesome I bought an MS6 because of the AWD, and the mod bug bit me. Now, FWD is fine unless you see snow for half the year, which then you might really benefit from awd but it's not crucial. So try not to get caught up in FWD vs AWD vs RWD. All have there place and havecome along way in the last 10yrs. To answer your mpg question: I get 24mpg consistently in my GenPu. It's bone stock and about 70% highway. But I do drive it pretty hard every chance I get. With every car YMMV and maintenance on a direct injection motor is very important. If this MS3 is at a Mazda Dealer try to get them to certify it as "Mazda Certified Pre-Owned" this will give you a 7yr/100,000 mile warranty on all major drivetrain components. I bought my MS3 brand new so I bought the extra big ass bumper to bumper warranty for 5yr/100,000 miles. if you can get the warranty at dealer cost or close it may be worth while to get. Mine covers everything, is transferable, etc. If you're not going to mod it heavily a warranty can be a good idea/piece of mind. It is used and you really don't know how it was treated and a transmission or engine will cost a lot more than the warranty. My MS6 was bought from the second owner and it still has a certified pre-Owned warranty for another couple months. I got a new turbo for free because of it. So try getting it certified, if they won't do it there is a reason and you should buy the extended warranty.

Very interesting big dog that you mentioned issurance because here in P.R. the sti and evos are not being insuranced by most of insurance companies due to the high incidents of accidents with them. With the ms3, i had no problem getting insurance. So this is another good point you brought up.

[mrshoulders]

Here is my little story. I had a maxima that was crapping the bed so I started looking for a fun/family friendly car. My first thought was a gti. I test drove and liked it, it was smooth, nice interior, didn't seem too slow, overall I was happy and started looking for a decent deal. I then started looking what else was in it's class and test drove a wrx which I instantly hated the interior so that was out. I then stumbled on a 2011 ms3, at first I wasn't too excited about the hatch but wanted to test drive it. Came to the dealership looked around the car and it was slightly modded (intake, catback) it was dark) Test drove and after my first wot run I told my wife who was sitting next to me that I am getting a speed3, I had the biggest grin on my face. I truly fell in love with the car. It has everything I want/need and has so much potential. It truly is an awesome car, I've had it almost 2 years and every time it start it up I enjoy being in it and truly enjoy driving it.

End rant

[Jokerface]

I moved to a new 2013 MS3 last fall and came from a 2005 RX8, so I know where you're coming from and the questions you're raising. I absolutely loved my 8, but in the end it was a love/hate thing...the reliability was getting to be costly. That being said, the handling was sublime and induced an enormous amount of confidence. Best handling car I ever owned, and I own a modified Miata, so that's saying something.

Ultimately, I do not I any way regret the decision I made to jump into the Speed. It is faster, handles well (not as great as the 8), but is infinitely more practical. I have always been a sports car guy and as a result, my choices were typically not practical in any way. While the 8 had 4 seats and a reasonable trunk, gas mileage was horrid and parts were insanely expensive. With this car, I've actually been kicking myself that I didn't consider a hot hatch sooner. It does everything I need.

Performance-wise I'd describe driving the 8 as a smooth, buttery experience...refined, predictable, and quick. The Speed? You sit higher, fight the torque steer, and feel like you're pounding your nuts on the road when the boost hits, yelling "GET THE HELL OUTTA MY WAY EVERYBODY." It's positively exhilarating, and if you're stuck in slow traffic, you'll just get more and more pissed because you can't get into boost. It's addictive as hell, and I absolutely love it.

10500 absolutely trouble-free miles so far. Go drive one...that will tell you all you need to know.

Sent from my SPH-P500 using Tapatalk

[Yousuf]

Originally Posted by mizboo102 you'd think... but the right foot gets the best of you. Or at least it does to me. They're as reliable as their previous owner's maintenance and modification history. The MS3 is a great car, I'd make the switch from the torque-less wonder that is the renesis motor. Yes RWD is more fun than FWD but what is your percentage of fun driving to commuting/daily/boring driving? If you end up missing it, just buy a miata as a second car in the future.

This

I went on a miata test driving frenzy after I bought mine because I fell in love with the car, and wanted to find a nicer one to sell mine for (someone already bought an NB I completely fell for)

You get to have rwd fun and some decent power... Just not in the same car

[2k4_8]

Originally Posted by RotaryUser How was the switch from RWD to FWD. That to me is the biggest thing.

I miss rwd sometimes, but it's not too big of a deal. If you race at all you'll have to relearn how to drive aggressive with fwd though, it is a little different for sure! I'll put it like this though. I traded my 04 rx8 after 2.5 years of ownership for a 2010 ms3 in 11, then in late 12 I bought a 13 ms3. Like I said, I have no regrets lol.

[Trey-Z]

Different people will have different opinions.. I'll always go for MS3 in a heart beat. I'm a little biased here..but hey, I test drove almost every sports car in-line with MS3, like STis, Evos, Sts..etc..even the newer RX-8.. There are multiple reasons why I chose MS3..the price, the kick, the size (I like hatch), gas, and most of all the MAZDA COMMUNITY, especially MSF..even if you go another route, they're always here for you no matter what..well, except for HONDUH (FYHN).. But again too each of its own.. Go for a test drive..and you'll see..

TL;DR
No questions.. MS3 all the way..lol

[Easter Bunny]

Originally Posted by mrshoulders Here is my little story. I had a maxima that was crapping the bed so I started looking for a fun/family friendly car. My first thought was a gti. I test drove and liked it, it was smooth, nice interior, didn't seem too slow, overall I was happy and started looking for a decent deal. I then started looking what else was in it's class and test drove a wrx which I instantly hated the interior so that was out. I then stumbled on a 2011 ms3, at first I wasn't too excited about the hatch but wanted to test drive it. Came to the dealership looked around the car and it was slightly modded (intake, catback) it was dark) Test drove and after my first wot run I told my wife who was sitting next to me that I am getting a speed3, I had the biggest grin on my face. I truly fell in love with the car. It has everything I want/need and has so much potential. It truly is an awesome car, I've had it almost 2 years and every time it start it up I enjoy being in it and truly enjoy driving it. End rant

wait wut?

[RedMS3]

I test drove a '11 pulling off the lot I squealed the tires by accident, pulled up to the red light my wife looked at me and said "this is the one", I just smiled and bought it.

[ABOSWORTH]

I absolutely love my 2012 Speed3. The only thing I'd change would be to make it RWD.

I had a 2003 WRX before this and it was a little bit to get used to having this much power on a FWD platform. 1st and 2nd gears were an absolute blast in the WRX (just straight power throwing you back with no wheel spin) but overall, I like this car much better. My car is actually hooking pretty well in 2nd gear now that it's warmer out. I've also grown to embrace the second gear wheel spin. It's kind of fun feeling all that power push the wheels so much that they let loose like that.

I was super impressed with how this car handled in the winter. If you see a lot of snow, you just absolutely need to buy good snow tires. Don't skimp out on that because if you do, the car will suck. I've read about people saying that this car sucks in the snow and I instantly know that they didn't buy snow tires.

[BooSTed_Hatch]

It's great to see all the opinions and how things vary from one person to the next! That's what's great about having Options in this class.!

I test drove the WRX, Focus ST, and MS3 before I made my purchase.

I liked the WRX, and MS3 the best (didnt care for the ST at all, including looks)

The price of a base model WRX Hatch at the time was comparable to my MS3 with Tech, and all the options I got extra for the same price was my deciding factor.

Still really like the Rex tho!

[RedMS3]

FWD was a big factor for me I get called out at night and have to drive in snow, this little buggy gets around great in the white stuff, but I do find that I have to check the wheel wells to kick out the snow and ice to keep it from rubbing the tire, and there is no lowering in my future...*S

[ABOSWORTH]

Originally Posted by RedMS3 FWD was a big factor for me I get called out at night and have to drive in snow, this little buggy gets around great in the white stuff, but I do find that I have to check the wheel wells to kick out the snow and ice to keep it from rubbing the tire, and there is no lowering in my future...*S

I feel like it would be fine if it was RWD and you had good snow tires. As long as you aren't driving like a moron and getting heavy on the gas when you're turning in the snow. People drove around for years with RWD cars and the tires are a hell of a lot better now than they were then. FWD is really only safer because you won't fishtail when you get on the gas and start slipping. I've read about guys on the mustang forums who drive year round and have no issues when they have good snow tires.

[SnailSpeed3]

My ms3 is by far the most fun car I've had, I don't think you will regret making the switch at all, but like many have said... go drive it and see if you can't stop yourself from buying it after.

Plus once you get past the heavy initial investment of buying an AP and upgrading FP you'll have a really fun car that's not too hard or expensive to make more fun

[AshFromCan]

The MS3 is a great car. Can be a lot of fun when you want it to be and can be economical too when you need it. From most of the testimony on here, they're pretty reliable vehicles if you take care of them.

[eliwwjd]

Well after all these great member reviews about their experience with the MS3, hopefully the guy has made a wise decision!

[dsmluck]

Originally Posted by Easter Bunny That definitely the dumbest thing anyone has said today. There is literally no advantage to the wrx unless you are one of the idiots that thinks AWD is a good idea.

Nope. Zero advantage. I can't even believe people fall for that scam.

OP-

2nd Gen MS3's seem pretty reliable. My 1st Gen had a few issues including a bad turbo. It put up with the abuse though. Pretty damn practical too.

[faeker]

Originally Posted by dsmluck Nope. Zero advantage. I can't even believe people fall for that scam.

I see what you are doing

[Ottousmc0341]

For me, it started with the fiance's car taking a shit. she needed a newer car. period. we came across her genwon at a (please forgive me) honda dealership. got a good deal on the car, and they gave her more than we expected for hers in trade. we both fell in love with the car, and had zero regrets with the purchase. fast forward 5 months, and my car decided it wanted to fuck my couch. it sat for a month. i was leaving in 2 days for north dakota for work. while I was out there, when I wasn't working, I was scouring the internet for my next car. I found a 11 wrx at a subaru dealership and what is now my 2012 ms3 at side by side dealerships about an hour from home. I came home, and promptly went to the subaru dealership to see a the wrx they had for 24k. it was a cool car for what it was, and I was ready to buy it. but the dealer wasn't budging at all. i went next door to the mazda lot and test drove my car. fell in love with it immediately. the fact it's newer, had less miles, and i paid 4k less for it than i would've paid for the subaru are just bonus points. i have no regrets at all. the only downside is now i have to deal with modding 2 ms3's, and it seems like that plan is on the slow boat to china...

[Easter Bunny]

Originally Posted by dsmluck Nope. Zero advantage. I can't even believe people fall for that scam. OP- 2nd Gen MS3's seem pretty reliable. My 1st Gen had a few issues including a bad turbo. It put up with the abuse though. Pretty damn practical too.

I knew that would rile you up. Care to fill this thread with you usual regurgitated marketing bullshit about AWDs supposed advantages.

AWD winning every 0-15 race ever held!

[mrshoulders]

Originally Posted by Easter Bunny wait wut?

lol yeah you got me.

[Easter Bunny]

Whatever you were smart enough to not buy a gti.

If it makes you feel better I took the time to read your wall of text.

[tCtoMS3]

I previously had a turbo'd tC and absolutely loved it. Got rid of the turbo for some extra cash and after driving it stock for a year i was missing boost. Sold the car and wanted a car that was in the right price range but also wanted to have fun. Test drove a few cars and then the MS3. I was sold. Go test drive one, for real.

[dsmluck]

Originally Posted by Easter Bunny I knew that would rile you up. Care to fill this thread with you usual regurgitated marketing bullshit about AWDs supposed advantages. AWD winning every 0-15 race ever held!

Absolutely.

Originally Posted by Ottousmc0341 For me, it started with the fiance's car taking a shit. she needed a newer car. period. we came across her genwon at a (please forgive me) honda dealership. got a good deal on the car, and they gave her more than we expected for hers in trade. we both fell in love with the car, and had zero regrets with the purchase. fast forward 5 months, and my car decided it wanted to fuck my couch. it sat for a month. i was leaving in 2 days for north dakota for work. while I was out there, when I wasn't working, I was scouring the internet for my next car. I found a 11 wrx at a subaru dealership and what is now my 2012 ms3 at side by side dealerships about an hour from home. I came home, and promptly went to the subaru dealership to see a the wrx they had for 24k. it was a cool car for what it was, and I was ready to buy it. but the dealer wasn't budging at all. i went next door to the mazda lot and test drove my car. fell in love with it immediately. the fact it's newer, had less miles, and i paid 4k less for it than i would've paid for the subaru are just bonus points. i have no regrets at all. the only downside is now i have to deal with modding 2 ms3's, and it seems like that plan is on the slow boat to china...

That is about the same experience I had back in 2009 when I picked up the MS3. Drove a 2009 WRX thought it was just ok and they wouldn't budge on the price so went to the Mazda dealer and they worked on the price and it was a better all around car.

[TECKSPEED]

I test drove a ms3 while looking at new cars, don't get me wrong 98 tdi Beetles are cool and all but it was time. Anyhow I test drove a '12 ms3 "just to see" what it was like had never driven one before. The salesman told me don't be afraid to open it up as he owns one as well. So half a tank of gas later and needing new tires. I am the proud owner of said ms3 I couldn't step away from it once I drove it.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using Tapatalk