1993 Mazda MPV consumer reviews

I think concept of the 1989 to 1995 Mazda MPV was one of the top 10 vehicles ever produced. Especially the 4wd version. Just imagine a vehicle that is 176 inches long yet seats 7 passengers, that is true 4wd with a centerlocking differential, a V6, has no rear left door so that your children cannot step out into traffic and also serves to stiffen AND lighten the body. Neutral handling because it is not FWD, the easiest access ever to the 3rd row of seats by simply walking past the 2nd row, which were so simple to remove creating a living room of space in the back, being one of the first vehicles to offer rear air conditioning, having a tighter turning circle than many compact cars. The engine power was 155/169 from 3 litres which is not alot by today's standards but it felt okay. So did the 4 speed automatic. But today's 3 litre V6s can easily make over 200/200 and Mazda makes an excellent 6 speed automatic. No more sticky, tapping valves that were cured with oil additives and regular oil changes. That was 30 years ago. Speaking of regular maintenance, how many MPV owners ignored the timing belt service intervals?? Not Mazda's fault. And yes, it could sleep 2 adults in comfort with a drinks cooler and luggage. Today's MPV in my eyes should have the same basic body design (the 1989-1995 not 1996-1998), a length of 186 inches mostly for luggage space behind the 3rd row and a 112 inch wheelbase for a bit more legroom between the 2nd and 3rd row. Even the current 2.5 litre engine Mazda uses makes 186/186 and gets 33 mpg hwy over the old V6s 22 mpg, so c'mon Mazda, in 2025, build a new MPV! Did I mention it could even solve the homeless problem??

Very comfortable front seats. Not the most reliable car on the road as I had problems with sticky lifters ( ticking noise ) coming from engine on cold starts. I wish the back seat were removable. You can't sleep in the van because of this. Easy to park and fun to drive for a minivan.

Not the most sylish or reliable car out their of coarse it is from 93'. the paint on these cars end up fading and deterierating after a while, interior is really stiff and feel uncomfortable inside with alot of passengers. Not alot of leg room either. Driver and passenger seats can only go back and forth and only adjust back support to go back manually, not electrically, it does not let you actually lower the seat which is a flaw as well. This car is nutorious for leaks and transmission issues power issues of many sorts. Just being in the car is uncomfortable. Car also lacks design and aero dynamics, looks like a shoe box from behind. turns are also very wide and not sharp. Just a car to use if nothing else is available or last resort car for emergencies.

It is 2009 as I write this, and I am STILL driving my 1993 MPV- as I have been for over 11 years- I have absolutely loved this van and HATE the idea of having to give it up-- It is 4wd and can get through snow and muck, but still is so fun to drive-- zips around corners and up hills, glides over bumps-- I'm so upset they don't offer them anymore... I'm trying to figure out what I could ever replace this with! (Mazda5, perhaps?)-- I love this van and will miss it dearly! (184,000 miles-- no major repairs except 2 timing belts)