MAZDA'S latest cars deliver much more driving fun than they could offer before but their earlier cars were still very capable and reliable.
The Focus-size 323 built from '98 to 2003 is practical and accomplished, with good refinement and engines which have lively performance and decent economy.
The range includes 1.3, 1.5, 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrol engines, with power ranging from 72 to 121bhp. There are also two 2.0-litre diesels, with either 88 or 101bhp.
All these last series 323's are five door hatches, which look a little like the latest Audi A3.
Even the 1.3 offers fair performance, while the bigger engines only improve on that - as you would imagine.
All have a slick changing five speed gearbox, a very light clutch and all the engines are smooth, quiet and free revving.
They have a good if occasionally bouncy ride and the handling, while not particularly sporting, gives good grip and balance.
Interior
Equipment is pretty good, with power steering and central locking across the range, backed up by power windows and sunroof on many.
Never buy without service history because they can be quite expensive to fix and you need to know everything has been properly done.
FAST FACTS
Mazda 323 1.3
Price: Pay £2,000 from a dealer for an '01 Y-reg LXi, £2,600 for an '02 52-reg GXi or £3,000 for an '04 04-reg LXi
Mechanical: 72bhp, 1,324cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 100mph
0-62mph: 14.8 seconds
Combined mpg: 38
Insurance group: 5
CO2 emissions: 179g/km
Marks: 8/10.
Main rival: Ford Focus