ms3 ms6 which is better

[robertmack83]

I am selling my mp3 cant decide between speed3 or speed 6. any info or input? thanks

[DuBy]

Get a speed 6.

[robertmack83]

because of the awd

[Killer]

Awd>fwd

[robertmack83]

pro and cons

[VRMS6]

Your asking MS6 owners which is better a MS3 or a MS6?? Dude come on we all know a SRT-4 is the only logical choice......
























































;) lol......

[robertmack83]

srt-4 neon can lick balls

[CnoTataymo]

Depends on what you want? A sedan or a wagon type? Fwd or awd? Same motor but the 6 weighs like 300 lbs more. And there is a price difference.

[Turtle of Time]

MS6 can be had for so much less since they dont sell as much.

[Turtle of Time]

Also note, this is coming from a current MS3 owner.

[AtenzaNY62]

this is one tough choice... lol but i guess try awd since your previous car was fwd, but then the speed3 is a few g's cheaper brand new and i like the interior better

[Dr. D]

i used to have a speed3 but after 5 days of owning it the motor mounts broke the engine fell to the pavement and snapped my axle in two at the CV joint... the best part is that i wasn't even beating on it at that time i was pulling into my driveway.

conclusion... i now own a speed 6 for that same price.

[laloosh]

if u need the awd get a speed6. If you don't get a speed 3
ms6 Pros:
awd
the end

ms6 Cons:
heavy
more expensive
driveline breaks shit left and right if you try to race it
driveline sucks up power

ms3 Pros:
ligher
traps higher
puts more power down

ms3 Cons;
fwd?

If speed is all you care about the fastest car on the boards et and mph wise is a speed 3. Both with minimal mods while alot of the faster 6 guys are heavily bolted on.

Once again just stating the fact, i know this is the 6 forum so i already zippered up my flame suit(breakn)

[davesxx01]

Went to buy a 3, came home with a 6.

Why? AWD and leg room, front and back! I like to stretch out and I sometimes carry passengers. With the seat in the furthest back position on the 3 the leg space in the rear was zero.
Another thing, did I mention AWD??? Sever winter storm here right now! I'm gonna go have fun! Unlike the "3" owner.

Rebate on the 6 for me was $2750, on the 3 its $0

[laloosh]

all good points. the ms6 is more or a family car and the awd can't be beat by the 3. the 3 is more of a racer....my opinion. winter is coming this weekend ill see how I do on snow tires lol

[chacon101]

I am not into sedans really but I did look at the Speed6. I test drove it and thought it was pretty nice actually. When I drove the MS3, I was hooked and bought it the next week.

This all depends on what you're looking for. IMO, the MS3 has everything the MS6 does except for the same sized trunk, AWD and an as quiet interior on the highway. Otherwise, the MS3 wins in all other regards.

I live in FL so FWD works for me and besides that, I think the MS3 looks sportier too.

What do [I]you[I] think are the pros/cons of each?

[assman]

saying you need AWD for winter is retarded unless you live in the yukon. I have winter wheels and tires and travel in shit storms all the time. With good winter tires its all you need. So unless you want awd for a real reason not a bs one like because there is snow then its a good deal. Otherwise get the 3. there is plenty of room for adults unless all 4 are over 6'2'' or something.

[oskinosmee]

Speed 3

[RedBli$$]

speed 6 imo...torque steer is a killer!

[desperado-c]

I hate to be so shallow, but unless you're in love with AWD (great for bad weather and awesome for launches), it comes down to image: Wild Child vs. the Buttondown Beast.

The Wild Child always lets you know you're driving a performance car. It's got a lot more road/engine noise and more road feel / engine feedback than the 6. When you pull in or out of a parking space, the exhaust noise makes people turn their heads to see who the upstart is. Give it the gas and the wheel will twitch in your hand just to remind you all that there's a lot of power being through the very same wheels that are responsible for your direction. Take off the DSC and you will lay a patch of rubber even with a relatively mild launch. In corners it feels a good deal lower and definitely lighter than the 6 with 400 fewer lbs to shift from side to side. Visibility all around is better and you can see the road better with the shorter and lower hood. On long trips you better not mind listening to the engine humming to itself b/c there's no putting the sound of the exhaust completely in the background. The size of the two cabins isn't much different in terms of numbers but the Wild Child will make you scrunch your elbow in a little on the door side and your knee will likely be resting against the center console. The back seat will be a little cozy for any adults you put back there with little room to spare if the front seats are pushed back at all.

The Buttondown Beast is almost the complete opposite. It isolates engine noise and road feel substantially and you won't really notice them most of the time. It's only when you really get on it and make the engine roar or pitch it into a corner and accelerate out in full-throttle AWD that the 6 shows it's performance side. The exhaust is pretty quiet and you'll barely get a glance in the supermarket parking lot as you slip in next to the other respectable looking 4-door sedans. Like a middle-class Bruce Wayne, your super powers remain hidden from the masses and only a select few will pick up on the clues to your secret alter ego. Those powers include the ability to launch hard with the just the slightest chirp when you drop the clutch. And you can tell that every bit of the 280 ft/lbs of torque is going directly into forward motion. I don't know what it takes to lay rubber, but it won't be something you do routinely like you do with the 3. On the highway, you can daydream and listen to classical music at a moderate volume if you want since all you need to overcome is the wind noise. Inside the extra couple of inches mean all but the tallest and chubbiest can put their elbows and knees where they want to instead of where they have to. Unlike the 3, adults in the backseat will have the freedom to gesticulate when they talk without fear of smacking the seat in front of them. Best of all, if you're a 30/40-something, middle-aged old fart like me, your wife or serious GF and your clients or co-workers will not ask if you are having a mid-life crisis or hide their faces to avoid being seen in a "starter car" like they might be inclined to do when riding with you in the 3.

In any case, it's a great choice to have to make. I'd love to do it all over again just for the fun of it.

[laloosh]

side note about tq steer. my car want to rip the wheel out of my hand in 4th

[flipstylex]

well, It all depends on what you want. personaly, if i had to choose, i would pick an evo than the speed 6. But for now, speed 3 is the winner bcuz it's cheap and looks different.hence look around, you see sedans everywhere.

speed 6 is more for older people i think bcuz it has a classy feel to it. like this is what it comes down to when broken down into age 18-26 =ms3....26-35=speed 6....
also note, i own a speed 3, and shit, it's scary to drive it on a rainy day, u wont catch traction if you step on it !! So be prepare to drive like a grandma, unless you like to battle against the slippery road;)

[chriscecc914]

i say ms6. i dont like the look of station wagons and the ms3 kinda looks like one.

[ottawaP5]

I used to own an MS6, traded it in for an MS3.

Here's what I can tell you about the pros of the MS6:
- Higher quality feel, less rattles than the MS3
- Can accelerate into the corners, MS3 can't
- 1st and 2nd gears much quicker than MS3
- steering feels lighter

Cons of MS6:
- Its weight starts to take over after 3rd gear, although it is still very quick
- When you toss it quickly around corners, there is more body roll
- Since the hood is higher, you see less of the road, therefore you don't really get a sensation of speed. The MS6 will give you more of a sense of security rather than a sense of outright speed. That can be a pro or a con.

The reason I got the MS3 was because it has more road feel and just more fun to drive. I still think the MS6 is a great car, so if you are looking for an Audi/BMW type of car, get the MS6. If you want more of a seat of the pants driving experience and can live with road noise/engine noise, get the MS3.

[CHICO2003]

While it's good to hear what others have to say, bear in mind that many of them are clearly biased. Often times, we build up how great our cars are as a way of justifying the purchase... even if we, deep down, know that it's really not as kick ass as we say. But that's another story..

Go drive both back to back and go with your gut. If you're like me (more interested in having a tossable car with power to spare, the MS3 will be the clear winner.) I've driven both back to back (with the hope of liking the MS6 better since -at the time- there were like $6k worth of rebates on it.) but to me... it just felt far too heavy/fat/bloated for my liking. Sure, there was power... and it handled about as well as one could expect a big car... but I felt nowhere near as in touch with the road as I did with my MSP... or the MS3.

Additionally, the MS3 has a far better interior. The MS6 is rather cheap in comparison... and the seats offer very little lateral support. (another thing that factors into the perception of how well a car handles.)

If you have a legitimate need for a back seat (I've had my MSP for over 4 years and my golf clubs are the only ones that have ever ridden back there. I suppose if I had (older) kids and had to car them around a lot... the MS6 (despite its flaws) would have been the better choice. Sure, the MS3 has a useable backseat but obviously there isn't nearly as much legroom.

So yeah... go test em out. Since they're so different, the choice will be immediately clear.

[V-tecThis]

also note, i own a speed 3, and shit, it's scary to drive it on a rainy day, u wont catch traction if you step on it !! So be prepare to drive like a grandma, unless you like to battle against the slippery road;)

LOL, I was driving around in my friends MS3 last night during the once in a lifetime rain in ARIZONA! and we hit 4th gear without moving redlining everytime cause we had no traction, went home and sat in my MS6 and had no problems with traction, the weird thing was when we were accelerating his speedometer would jump up to like 120 MPH then back down it was crazy

Anyways, my choice:

Black MAZDASPEED 6 :] :]

[CHICO2003]

To be fair, that's not a very scientific means of comparing the 2. In order to do so (fairly) one would have to drive the 2 in the exact same conditions and compare the differences then. Since they both have the same tires, that's not a factor. If the MS6 has an advantage in heavy rain I'd think it has more to do with the fact that it outweighs the MS3 by 500lbs.

[laloosh]

I think the ms6 looks better with a lil work done to it. I'm 24 if I was 27ish I would def look into the ms6 more. The ms3 puts a smile on my face track wise but for daily driving I think the ms6 is a better pick

[JJxUSAF]

I feel like they are very different cars...I have ridden in and driven both, but I'll say this up front...I am a MS6 owner.

I think the point, which a few have pointed out (and laloosh has made obvious with his remarks), is what kind of driver are you? Are you the type to hang out in the parking lot with a 6" exhaust tip bragging with other parking lot aficionados about your latest mods? Or are you the type who got tired of small interiors and feeling every bump in the road, so you now want a car with power that can comfortably seat five people?

Personally, I sold my 400 RWHP mustang so that I could own a car that was more...civilized, but that would still push me back in the seat if I wanted it to. For that reason I bought the 6. If I wanted to race around parking lots with my loud exhaust, I would have gone for the 3.

I'm not saying there is anything wrong with either. It's just my personal opinion that the 3 is more for a younger, or more tuner oriented crowd, whereas the 6 is for people who want a nice car, without all the attention.

[~JoJo~]

ms3 GT all the way!

[chriscecc914]

I feel like they are very different cars...I have ridden in and driven both, but I'll say this up front...I am a MS6 owner.

I think the point, which a few have pointed out (and laloosh has made obvious with his remarks), is what kind of driver are you? Are you the type to hang out in the parking lot with a 6" exhaust tip bragging with other parking lot aficionados about your latest mods? Or are you the type who got tired of small interiors and feeling every bump in the road, so you now want a car with power that can comfortably seat five people?

Personally, I sold my 400 RWHP mustang so that I could own a car that was more...civilized, but that would still push me back in the seat if I wanted it to. For that reason I bought the 6. If I wanted to race around parking lots with my loud exhaust, I would have gone for the 3.

I'm not saying there is anything wrong with either. It's just my personal opinion that the 3 is more for a younger, or more tuner oriented crowd, whereas the 6 is for people who want a nice car, without all the attention.


same here 400whp mustang to the speed 6. get tired of all the noise and bumps and just want something comfortable and fast.

[acidbbg]

IMHO I think if you are looking for speed get the speed3. It's much faster and has more potential than the speed6.

I got the speed6 simply b/c of TQ steer..my last 2 cars where FWD and i couldn't stand the tq steer. In the rain it was more pronounced.

I have yet to drive in snow..but i can tell you in rain..this thing hooks.

AWD ftw.

[jcgemt2003]

Speed6....that is unless you dont want a sleeper.

[Lil_vicious559]

as everyone else already said. It's biased but i think you should test drive both car's and get used to that feeling that you like.

Should of made a poll if it helps you decide that much more.

BTW: The GM here at lithia Mazda said a customer owns a Speed6/Speed3 along with the big brother RX-8. (ughdance)...............One Lucky @ss B@stard

Wish i could have a speed6/speed 3. My driveway will look peeerrrtty!!

[ottawaP5]

IMHO I think if you are looking for speed get the speed3. It's much faster and has more potential than the speed6.

I got the speed6 simply b/c of TQ steer..my last 2 cars where FWD and i couldn't stand the tq steer. In the rain it was more pronounced.

I have yet to drive in snow..but i can tell you in rain..this thing hooks.

AWD ftw.

Torque steer is fun....not enough drama in the MS6 :)

I have to admit that AWD was sweet in the snow, especially when doing AWD dougnuts

[Hikaru9]

The decision was easy in my case.
I love hot hatches, and it's amazing what I can fit into my MS3. *^_^*

Besides, I'd much rather drive nice wagons like the Audi RS6 than a sedan. =p

[CX-7owner]

Just because of the AWD the MS6 is well ahead of the MS3, now if AWD was available on the MS3 it would be a closed case, but it's not.

If you can live with FWD, MS3 all the way.

The A4 we have is fronttrak, and I spin wheels pulling out from our driveway, which ALWAYS has a little water trickling down, it's really annoying, and if I floor my AWD CX-7, I can pull out with WOT.

[flipstylex]

Here we go(flamesuit on)

Here's the best way to choose. Read magazines , and you'll notice that a lot of magazines praise the ms3 more than the ms6. Heck , ms3 wins almost all the category in the cheap subcompact category.

Now read the reviews on the ms6 on the sedan devision.you'll notice that the evo and sti kicks it's ass ;)...it's just my opinion and what i read... so u decide. Here www.caranddriver.com.... read the articles and make your decision...(flamesuit on)(hides under the bunker) :) cheeers !!!

[JJxUSAF]

Here we go(flamesuit on)

Here's the best way to choose. Read magazines , and you'll notice that a lot of magazines praise the ms3 more than the ms6. Heck , ms3 wins almost all the category in the cheap subcompact category.

Now read the reviews on the ms6 on the sedan devision.you'll notice that the evo and sti kicks it's ass ;)...it's just my opinion and what i read... so u decide. Here www.caranddriver.com.... read the articles and make your decision...(flamesuit on)(hides under the bunker) :) cheeers !!!

Ok...now look at prices. Look what they're comparing the 3 to. It is the same or more expensive than comparable cars in it's category. Show me where you can find an STI or an EVO for what you can get a 6 for right now and I'll agree that you have a point. In their respective categories, the 6 is the much better deal.

[CHICO2003]

LOL I think what he meant to say was that the MS3 is far and away the cream of the crop in its class. It's won all the shootouts between its competitors handsdown... even the (awd) WRX.

The MS6, on the other hand, is just middle of the pack. The similarly priced LGT received a lot more praise and is considered to be (like the MS3) the class leader.

Now maybe the MS6 has stiffer competition... or maybe it's just not as good. My advice: take what the reviews say into consideration and decide for yourself.

[Hikaru9]

LOL I think what he meant to say was that the MS3 is far and away the cream of the crop in its class. It's won all the shootouts between its competitors handsdown... even the (awd) WRX.

The MS6, on the other hand, is just middle of the pack. The similarly priced LGT received a lot more praise and is considered to be (like the MS3) the class leader.

Now maybe the MS6 has stiffer competition... or maybe it's just not as good. My advice: take what the reviews say into consideration and decide for yourself.

(iagree) The way I feel about the MS6's marketing failure in the U.S. is that Mazda tried to please to many segments of consumers with this car. It's not as hardcore as the STI or the Evo while not being as plush as the Camry or the Accord. Mazda flat out said that the MS6 wasn't meant to be compared to the likes of the STI; nevertheless, that's what happened anyway. Despite what the magazines have said, I personally think it's a brilliant car (even though Jeremy Clarkson compared it to a supermodel with a beard). MS3 just made more sense to me for its everyday practicality of the hatch. *^_^*

[acidbbg]

Torque steer is fun....not enough drama in the MS6 :)

I have to admit that AWD was sweet in the snow, especially when doing AWD doughnuts

So how's the wheel hop in that thing? Have you had any opportunities to drive in the snow?

My biggest issue with the FWD was the TQ steer..In the snow..good lord..i got stuck to many times with FWD.

When i tested the speed3 out...it was raining that day...I couldn't get on it..b/c it would just spin tires. IMHO that's just a waste. In my speed6..i feel I can take on the elements and not have to worry about getting stuck..Or tq steering into another lane..

-C

[RedBli$$]

RobertMack83.. its all your decision. dont listen to these people. think about what you want to do with the car, what expectations you have, and go test drive them back to back and see what feels better for you. study them and see what appeals to you more. honestly i neva liked the looks of the speed 6. but i still bought 1..now it grew on me and i love it. the speed 3 is extremely nice lookin, and has the best interior. (includin the gauges) the only 2 main reasons y i didnt get a ms3 was cuz of tq steer, and it does kinda look like a wagon. so i bought a ms6 and im 21 by the way.

[ottawaP5]

So how's the wheel hop in that thing? Have you had any opportunities to drive in the snow?

My biggest issue with the FWD was the TQ steer..In the snow..good lord..i got stuck to many times with FWD.

When i tested the speed3 out...it was raining that day...I couldn't get on it..b/c it would just spin tires. IMHO that's just a waste. In my speed6..i feel I can take on the elements and not have to worry about getting stuck..Or tq steering into another lane..

-C

It's been snowing non stop here since last week. I was amazed how well it tracked through the snow, having an lsd really helps. As long as you don't have a lead foot and just gently apply throttle it gets through snow with ease.

As for wheel hop, I don't launch this car hard so I experience it rarely. You can't drive it like the MS6 in the rain that's for sure.

[oskinosmee]

Speed6....that is unless you dont want a sleeper.

the 3 has a more sleeper look going on

[TX Speed 6]

I agree with what was said earlier (really everything is starting to repeat itself)... drive both, you'll see which you like more. When the 6 was first coming out, Mazda said they built it with the intent of having something comporable to BMW 3 series. The 3 is more competition for popular tuner cars like the WRX, SRT-4, Civic etc. So if your the kind of person that wants a more comfy plush ride, the 6 is a better choice. If you just care about speed, go with the 3.

[Crashes]

I'm only 21 and I would pick the 6 again over the ms3, I love the AWD and 4 door, considering IM used to two doors (my cobalt SS/SC, Turba supra, RSX-S) Its extremely favorable with just about everything I want. (think about it, Ive got Moderate reliablity, speed, comfort, good looks, HIDS, 4 doors, AWD (any time of year, a hwy cruiser, decent gas mileage) its just an all around car...Plus Im done with the boy racer image, I'm done with that, Ive owned a million of them. So dont let the if your older get a 6 fool you, I feel I've evolved rather quick with my cars and dont regret it.

[Hikaru9]

I'm only 21 and I would pick the 6 again over the ms3, I love the AWD and 4 door, considering IM used to two doors (my cobalt SS/SC, Turba supra, RSX-S) Its extremely favorable with just about everything I want. (think about it, Ive got Moderate reliablity, speed, comfort, good looks, HIDS, 4 doors, AWD (any time of year, a hwy cruiser, decent gas mileage) its just an all around car...Plus Im done with the boy racer image, I'm done with that, Ive owned a million of them. So dont let the if your older get a 6 fool you, I feel I've evolved rather quick with my cars and dont regret it.

Last time I checked, my MS3 had 4 doors (or 5 doors if you count the hatch). It sounds like you're talking about how practical your ride is, but it doesn't get more practical than a hatch.

I'm much older than you, but I guess I like the wild child look. The MS6 is a fine ride, so if you like it... more power to you. *^_^*

[Lil_vicious559]

Here we go(flamesuit on)

Here's the best way to choose. Read magazines , and you'll notice that a lot of magazines praise the ms3 more than the ms6. Heck , ms3 wins almost all the category in the cheap subcompact category.

Now read the reviews on the ms6 on the sedan devision.you'll notice that the evo and sti kicks it's ass ;)...it's just my opinion and what i read... so u decide. Here www.caranddriver.com.... read the articles and make your decision...(flamesuit on)(hides under the bunker) :) cheeers !!!

Im sorry but did you just compare the EVo and STi and the MS6 together??(rofl)(rofl)

The MS6 is compared to more of like the Altima SE, SE-R, Legacy 2.5GT, Accord EX V6, Acura TL.

(dark)Not Evo's or STi's.

[Sacrilicious]

To be fair, that's not a very scientific means of comparing the 2. In order to do so (fairly) one would have to drive the 2 in the exact same conditions and compare the differences then. Since they both have the same tires, that's not a factor. If the MS6 has an advantage in heavy rain I'd think it has more to do with the fact that it outweighs the MS3 by 500lbs.

you also have to factor in tire wear. rain traction is alllll about tread depth, so if the ms3's tires were worn more, it would be at a distinct disadvantage.




in the end, i say go out and test drive the living daylights out of both cars, come home, sleep on it for a night, and then test drive the shit out of them again the next day...THEN you can start to begin your decision process...;)

[Sacrilicious]

Im sorry but did you just compare the EVo and STi and the MS6 together??(rofl)(rofl)

The MS6 is compared to more of like the Altima SE, SE-R, Legacy 2.5GT, Accord EX V6, Acura TL.

(dark)Not Evo's or STi's.

+1

both the ms3 and ms6 are not comparable to the evo and sti. unless you're going for price vs performance and willing to compromise on performance to save some $$, it's not even a question how readily the evo and sti will spank our cars...^_^;

[CHICO2003]

from a roll, you might be surprised. The MS3 is very capable

[Sacrilicious]

from a roll, you might be surprised. The MS3 is very capable

ya, the car is pretty awesome from a roll, but my n00b driving skillz are insufficient to launch it fast enough from a stop to be a threat to most people...:(

[CHICO2003]

Launches are overrated anyway. I mean, you work your ass off to "afford" the ridiculous monthly payment only to what? burn up your clutch, abuse your tranny and tear up your tires? no thanks! it's mostly illegal anyway... and what does it really prove? who has the fastest 0-60 time? who can shift faster? lol please!

that's why, for me, the benefit of awd (inclement weather driving aside) just isn't there. The MS3 will obviously get trounced by the big boys from a dig... but from a roll, it's a pretty even match. Though I don't condone it and it's not something I do on a regular basis... a little freeway racing aint gonna hurt anyone. hmm... second thought... nevermind.

All I know is, if you're like me and not into kicking your car's ass everytime the light turns turns green... and aren't looking to perform rescue missions during blizzards, the MS3 is by far the best thing out there. Now if only the wife would understand this!!

[Sacrilicious]

... a little freeway racing aint gonna hurt anyone. hmm... second thought... nevermind.

All I know is, if you're like me and not into kicking your car's ass everytime the light turns turns green... and aren't looking to perform rescue missions during blizzards, the MS3 is by far the best thing out there. Now if only the wife would understand this!!

(rlaugh)

ya, this is one of the main reasons i got my ms3 as well. i really hate beating the crap out of my baby by launching her hard. every time i get heavy wheel hop and feel those heart-stopping jolts go pounding through the frame, i die a little inside...(sad2)

[flipstylex]

Launches are overrated anyway. I mean, you work your ass off to "afford" the ridiculous monthly payment only to what? burn up your clutch, abuse your tranny and tear up your tires? no thanks! it's mostly illegal anyway... and what does it really prove? who has the fastest 0-60 time? who can shift faster? lol please!

that's why, for me, the benefit of awd (inclement weather driving aside) just isn't there. The MS3 will obviously get trounced by the big boys from a dig... but from a roll, it's a pretty even match. Though I don't condone it and it's not something I do on a regular basis... a little freeway racing aint gonna hurt anyone. hmm... second thought... nevermind.

All I know is, if you're like me and not into kicking your car's ass everytime the light turns turns green... and aren't looking to perform rescue missions during blizzards, the MS3 is by far the best thing out there. Now if only the wife would understand this!!


yea ms3 ftw...... anyways, i thought ms3 is faster on a roll ;)

[laloosh]

When talking strictly from a performance point of view the only place these cars are close is ET, from a roll a ms6 will get walked by a ms3 stock for stock and mod for mod...obviously lol.

[whooosh]

buy an MS3 if your 18 and couldn't find an SRT-4
j/k

I actually would have bought the MS3 if I knew it was coming out and I'd even trade mine MS6 now if I didn't cut & mod so much already

[andrew.savage]

RobertMack83.. its all your decision. dont listen to these people. think about what you want to do with the car, what expectations you have, and go test drive them back to back and see what feels better for you. study them and see what appeals to you more. honestly i neva liked the looks of the speed 6. but i still bought 1..now it grew on me and i love it. the speed 3 is extremely nice lookin, and has the best interior. (includin the gauges) the only 2 main reasons y i didnt get a ms3 was cuz of tq steer, and it does kinda look like a wagon. so i bought a ms6 and im 21 by the way.

Dude chill, he asked our opinions.

[fastdreams]

Interesting reasons people have.

I'm 31, bought a hooker red MS3 to play with. I wanted something in the class and price range - GTI, Civic Si sedan, WRX. Then someone mentioned the speed6 so I looked at that and found out about the speed3. After finding these two cars at their price, I pretty much dropped the other choices (hung on pretty hard to the honda though!). I love AWD cars - I have an Audi S4 avant now and I've been in other AWD cars for years (Audi's and modded WRX). I also love the hot hatch segment as it's a good blend of fun, practicality and economy. Don't care about the age thing.

What it came down to for me is which car did I think would be more serious at the track? MS3 made the final cut, in spite of the FWD handicap. I think making the MS3 awd would completely change it's character and ruin what it's good at by adding weight and drivetrain losses. It didn't help that I read some unfavorable things about the Mazda AWD system, at least in regards to driving at the limit. Also tired of trying to make pig-heavy awd cars handle well. So the choice became more and more clear for my needs.

It doesn't hurt that I still have my AWD car in the driveway ;)

Tell you what, I'm really impressed by this little mazda. I can't wait to get her on track and start surprising the unsuspecting.

I think my neighbors think I'm a little nuts LOL! I'll choose function and practicality over image any day.

More opinions to confuse you :)

[CHICO2003]

Dude chill, he asked our opinions.

haha exactly love how he then goes into his opinion

It's like, don't listen to anyone's opinion... but here's mine

[andrew.savage]

haha exactly love how he then goes into his opinion

It's like, don't listen to anyone's opinion... but here's mine

hahaha ridiculous.

[chriscecc914]

I think an AWD car is more practical for the street and the track. Street, if you live in areas of heavy rain, snow and, ice at least a few months out of the year. Track, because traction and launching are 75% of the battle and AWD is what gets you that. yea, stock for stock the ms3 is faster and lighter but down the road I think the ms6 has more potential as power is added whereas the ms3 will get slower or stay the same due to traction issues unless you drive around on slicks all day.

[CHICO2003]

It doesn't hurt that I still have my AWD car in the driveway ;)


While I feel you obviously make a great choice, I'll never understand why people (who live in warm climates) buy fwd... or even awd over rwd. granted, I've in CT all my life so I'm not as aware of what you have to deal with... but I imagine the worst thing is rain. Having owned a rwd car for all 4 seasons (and nearly dying a dozen times during the winter) I can safely say... if it wasn't for the F@#%ing snow... I'd so be rockin an rx-8

[fastdreams]

While I feel you obviously make a great choice, I'll never understand why people (who live in warm climates) buy fwd... or even awd over rwd. granted, I've in CT all my life so I'm not as aware of what you have to deal with... but I imagine the worst thing is rain. Having owned a rwd car for all 4 seasons (and nearly dying a dozen times during the winter) I can safely say... if it wasn't for the F@#%ing snow... I'd so be rockin an rx-8

Hah yeah I hear ya. Find me a new car (4-door) for $20k that is RWD and can even touch the MS3.

The reality for me is there are very few RWD cars out there, that are affordable and good enough.
New ones that I like are out of my price range, for example: BMW 335i, M3, Caddy CTS-V, hell I'd even hit the GTO - though I prefer a 4-door. I really can't think of any other RWD cars I'd want that are at least 4-seat and preferably 4 door. What cars am I missing? Oh yeah the mustang would be kind of fun with mods.

I like AWD cars for their enormous grip. I like to autocross, drive the twisties, and go to track days, and the AWD traction is a lot of fun. Part of the reason I bought this MS3 though is to get away from the drivetrain losses, enjoy a decent MPG, have more fun in a lighter more tossable car, etc.

Regarding the RX8. I think it is a great car but I didn't even consider one. Higher cost, poor gas mileage, less power. I'll take poor gas mileage if it comes with excellent power output.

Honestly if I was going to spend 30k+ I'd be holding out for the new evo or something in that category. If you have any question as to why buy AWD for performance, just look at the track times that the EVO and STI are capable of.

[CHICO2003]

good points... While the RX-8 isn't very powerful, its athleticism is unmatched. Plus.. it has 4 doors so it's at least somewhat practical... at least compared to its closest rival, the 350z.

But you make a good point. there really aren't any 4 door rwd cars that fit the bill. sort of a shame really... imagine the MS3 or MSP as a rwd... tha shit would be sweet!

[chacon101]

[QUOTE=fastdreams;3536417]

I like AWD cars for their enormous grip. I like to autocross, drive the twisties, and go to track days, and the AWD traction is a lot of fun. Part of the reason I bought this MS3 though is to get away from the drivetrain losses, enjoy a decent MPG, have more fun in a lighter more tossable car, etc.

QUOTE]

Decent MPG? Man, I must drive like Tom Petty (or whoever that Nascar guy is) because I get anywhere from 210-250 miles out of my tank. I LOVE this car but MPG isn't a reason that I have it :) Or at least it isn't a reason for me to buy another one. No doubt about it though, it's the best car I have ever owned. This thing is a rocket and never fails to impress.

[JJxUSAF]

If you look at all the posts here, you'll notice that the main argument everyone makes for the MS3 is performance. And they make it sound like they're comparing Honda Civics to Shelby Mustangs, but in reality to anyone not counting tenths of a second, the difference is pretty negligible. Still, if you're looking for performance first everything else a distant second, stick with the MS3.

If you're 25 going on 17 and want the 'Wild Child' look, go with the MS3.

If you're a little older, don't live at the track, don't want every punk ass in a STI or EVO trying to run you down at lights and want something more comfortable and a little more civilized in appearance, while still maintaining enough performance to cut off that chick on her cell phone in the 3 series, go with the MS6.

That's what it boils down to.

[chacon101]

While I feel you obviously make a great choice, I'll never understand why people (who live in warm climates) buy fwd... or even awd over rwd. granted, I've in CT all my life so I'm not as aware of what you have to deal with... but I imagine the worst thing is rain. Having owned a rwd car for all 4 seasons (and nearly dying a dozen times during the winter) I can safely say... if it wasn't for the F@#%ing snow... I'd so be rockin an rx-8

As was mentioned, there aren't many RWD cars that fit the bill (looks, reliability, cost). I chose the MS3 because of the cost/feature ratio. +1 for a car like the MS3 in a RWD platform. That would make this car the deal of the century. A super Miata of sorts.

[fastdreams]

Decent MPG? Man, I must drive like Tom Petty (or whoever that Nascar guy is) because I get anywhere from 210-250 miles out of my tank. I LOVE this car but MPG isn't a reason that I have it :) Or at least it isn't a reason for me to buy another one. No doubt about it though, it's the best car I have ever owned. This thing is a rocket and never fails to impress.

LOL, I think Tom Petty is WAY too stoned to drive fast anywhere, ever. One of his lyrics come to mind: "Let's get to the point, let roll another joint..." I think there is a Richard and a Kyle Petty in Nascrap.

Compared to my modded WRX, and my S4, the MS3 gets very good gas mileage. Granted if you tap into all or most of the available power then you will be sucking the gas like a sow at feeding time. But for cruising on the highway or poking along in traffic, the MS3 is WAY more efficient than my previous cars.

[chacon101]

If you look at all the posts here, you'll notice that the main argument everyone makes for the MS3 is performance. And they make it sound like they're comparing Honda Civics to Shelby Mustangs, but in reality to anyone not counting tenths of a second, the difference is pretty negligible. Still, if you're looking for performance first everything else a distant second, stick with the MS3.

If you're 25 going on 17 and want the 'Wild Child' look, go with the MS3.

If you're a little older, don't live at the track, don't want every punk ass in a STI or EVO trying to run you down at lights and want something more comfortable and a little more civilized in appearance, while still maintaining enough performance to cut off that chick on her cell phone in the 3 series, go with the MS6.

That's what it boils down to.

Sorry to be a post whore here but I have to disagree with what you stated. I know it's your opinion but I just think you grouped too much into one category.

I am personally 30 y/o and one thing I liked about the MS3 was the sleeper factor. People ignore the MS3 and I feel as though it really blends in with most cars on the road....especially in silver or blue.

I have yet to find but TWO poeple who have wanted to "race" me or whatever and once was a new BMW and the other was a Civic SI sedan. When I owned an Rx7, people would try to race me almost every day.

Just a question, have you driven an MS3 and also a Mustang GT or Civic Si?

[chriscecc914]

im 21 and im in an ms6. I think their was a pole on this forum showing that the majority of ms6 owners are in their 20's or late teens. That should rule out the fact that the ms6 is for the "older crowd"

[fastdreams]

If you're 25 going on 17 and want the 'Wild Child' look, go with the MS3.

If you're a little older, don't live at the track, don't want every punk ass in a STI or EVO trying to run you down at lights and want something more comfortable and a little more civilized in appearance, while still maintaining enough performance to cut off that chick on her cell phone in the 3 series, go with the MS6.

That's what it boils down to.

I disagree. But then I'm 31 going on 21. I think it's just your perception that people are making the MS3 sound like it's THAT much faster/whatever than the MS6. I certainly don't think of it like that.

I've met very few "punkass" drivers in STi's and EVOs. I've had NONE try to run me down in the Mazda. Most people have no clue my MS3 is any different than a regular 3. I recently had a fun day of twisty driving with some friends (Elise, RS4-V8, S4-V8, 2 modded EVO's) - they are all very cool folks that enjoy their cars the way they were designed to. Not barrelling down an empty freeway at night. Anyway, they didn't know jack about the MS3, but they were definitely curious about it at the end of the day. I do get the occasional glance from a mazda driver.

It must be different where you are, or maybe it's just where you put yourself that you run into these types of people? Maybe I'm just lucky where I'm at, or it's the type of people I associate with.

[CHICO2003]

If you look at all the posts here, you'll notice that the main argument everyone makes for the MS3 is performance. And they make it sound like they're comparing Honda Civics to Shelby Mustangs, but in reality to anyone not counting tenths of a second, the difference is pretty negligible. Still, if you're looking for performance first everything else a distant second, stick with the MS3.

If you're 25 going on 17 and want the 'Wild Child' look, go with the MS3.

If you're a little older, don't live at the track, don't want every punk ass in a STI or EVO trying to run you down at lights and want something more comfortable and a little more civilized in appearance, while still maintaining enough performance to cut off that chick on her cell phone in the 3 series, go with the MS6.

That's what it boils down to.


I think you're not seeing the whole picture. Acceleration times are one thing... how a car FEELS is another. For me, since I could care less about beating the guy next to me when the light turns, it's all about the feel... Without question, the MS3 FEELS faster... by a lot. Even if the MS6 WAS faster (and I believe it is to 60) because of it's size/heft/disconnect to the road... it just doesn't feel as fast.

Your depiction is a bit ridiculous too. The MS3 is pretty understated in the styling dept. Even the red is rather mundane when compared to some of the truly WILD cars out there... you know, the SRT, MSP, Evo, Sti, Cobalt (with wing) etc.

[zach21087]

I own a speed6 and my lil brother owns a speed3. I love both cars. Im 20 and hes 19. We both drive each others cars all the time.

Now for the people who say the MS3 is "way" faster that is not true, i race my brother pretty much everyday, and it seriously comes down to: 1.) Whether or not i hit fuel cut lol or 2.) who shifts better. Both cars are speed Demons. Honestly though its the same engine.

I personally love the look of both cars, and i actually believe both of them have sleeper appeal to them because not many people hear or know of Mazdaspeeds.

I think it comes down to more a less how you personally wanna drive. Want leg room and ability to whip the shit outta the car in a corner go MS6.

You want a smaller which usually equals a "quicker feel" go MS3. And if you like to race and such MS3.

And one more thing, i went in to buy a MS3 but left with the MS6 because it was cheaper. The MS6 was used with 2100 miles. Honestly you cant make a bad choice. But actually go with the EVOX due out soon. lol

[laloosh]

waht does ure brothers speed 3 have done to it that makes it a drivers race against your big turbo ms6....if you say i/tbe i rest my case lol

[Lil_vicious559]

I own a speed6 and my lil brother owns a speed3. I love both cars. Im 20 and hes 19. We both drive each others cars all the time.

Now for the people who say the MS3 is "way" faster that is not true, i race my brother pretty much everyday, and it seriously comes down to: 1.) Whether or not i hit fuel cut lol or 2.) who shifts better. Both cars are speed Demons. Honestly though its the same engine.

I personally love the look of both cars, and i actually believe both of them have sleeper appeal to them because not many people hear or know of Mazdaspeeds.

I think it comes down to more a less how you personally wanna drive. Want leg room and ability to whip the shit outta the car in a corner go MS6.

You want a smaller which usually equals a "quicker feel" go MS3. And if you like to race and such MS3.

And one more thing, i went in to buy a MS3 but left with the MS6 because it was cheaper. The MS6 was used with 2100 miles. Honestly you cant make a bad choice. But actually go with the EVOX due out soon. lol

Are you stock?? or you have under the hood what's in your sig. Anyways i feel performance wise that it comes down like this:

(STOCK)1/4mile
MS6>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
MS3>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

From a (ROLL)
MS6>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
MS3>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Both cars are winners in my book. I mean, it all just comes down to preference and looks.

Both are sexy but i chose the MS6. Couldn't pass up the Grand Touring deal i got.

[zach21087]

Are you stock?? or you have under the hood what's in your sig. Anyways i feel performance wise that it comes down like this:

(STOCK)1/4mile
MS6>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
MS3>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

From a (ROLL)
MS6>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
MS3>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Both cars are winners in my book. I mean, it all just comes down to preference and looks.

Both are sexy but i chose the MS6. Couldn't pass up the Grand Touring deal i got.


im not stock but do to having no tune and fuel cut im actually slower now due to my mods. But i do slightly agree with your little diagram but again i think it goes to who drives better. I have beat me brother on the roll and from the line. And the same goes for him. Once again you cant lose if you end up with either one.

[zach21087]

waht does ure brothers speed 3 have done to it that makes it a drivers race against your big turbo ms6....if you say i/tbe i rest my case lol

My brother is stock. Big turbo MS6 takes a lot of work to become fast again, so until i get all my other upgrades like fuel pump, maybe new internals, tune, etc, then ill be fast again. As of right now im running slower then stock, which is unfortunate but its the price you pay for buying a mazda with shitty ass stock turbo seals. On a brighter note though I hope to have completed the project by next summer. =)

[gooniac33]

this is my take on it since I had the opportunity to drive both back to back. I love both cars but the speed6 is the one I got. Here is my reasoning.....


I got the speed6 because it was AWD, launched like a bat out of hell and was a total sleeper!!! No one knows what it is unless they know what Mazdaspeed means. I like sleepers. And not to mention it is a pretty upscale looking car. Did I mention AWD? I love it and will never ever get another understeering FWD car......EVER!!!!

The speed3 is a blast! I loved the test drive and think that it may even be just a little faster than my speed6! But at a price. The interior is smaller, there is no moonroof option and it looks like a boy racer. I am past that and wanted to lay low for a bit. Not to mention that the ride is rougher. I have had a lowered 90 Civic Si with a B18c1 in it so I have no need to own another low, rough riding but fast hatchback.....

Thats how I see it. I am getting a TMIC for my car at the first of the year and then just leaving it alone. I have never had this fast stock before in my life!! But you could say the same thing about the speed3. It is all a matter of opinion.


Hopefully that helped some....


Oh and don't forget the price difference......

[gooniac33]

good points... While the RX-8 isn't very powerful, its athleticism is unmatched. Plus.. it has 4 doors so it's at least somewhat practical... at least compared to its closest rival, the 350z.

But you make a good point. there really aren't any 4 door rwd cars that fit the bill. sort of a shame really... imagine the MS3 or MSP as a rwd... tha shit would be sweet!

I agree especially being an ex RX-8 owner. I loved that car but hated that it used so much gas and made so little power! But it was the best handling car I had driven in stock form. I could fit a ton of stuff in the trunk and fit my wife and 2 kids in it. It was a fun car and what all cars should be!

But imagine that same motor in a Miata!!! My god that would be perfect!

[ms6utah]

I've got both the ms6 and ms3 and i like them both but the ms3 stock is faster

[00protegeracer]

get the 3, it looks better i think. hey we should have a ms3 race a ms6 and well see who wins. straights and turns

[Lil_vicious559]

This has been discussed before,

1/4mile race

MS6>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
MS3>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

0-120mph race

MS6>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
MS3>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><< Drivers race

From a Roll at any speed

MS6>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
MS3>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

This is what the outcome would look like

[00protegeracer]

and where do the turns come in???

[bova80]

the ms6 will out handle the ms3 stock for stock

[gte024h]

and where do the turns come in???

Some people like to race in a straight line, others like twisty lines... different stroke for different folks. The MS3 has the advantage in a straight line race because of the lower weight and reduced driveline drag. I think the MS6 has more potential in the corners.

I know the last time I took my car to the track it absolutely ate the corners up. I was slower in the straights for sure, but I always seemed to catch up in the corners.

[laloosh]

the ms6 will out handle the ms3 stock for stock

in the snow and rain...maybe rain...

[jcgemt2003]

This hasnt been discussed before,

1/4mile race

My MS6>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Laloosh MS3>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

0-120mph race

My MS6>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Laloosh MS3>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

From a Roll at any speed

My MS6>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
LalooshMS3>>>>>>>>>>>

This is what the outcome would look like. (bicker)
You know that was funny Laloosh.!

[laloosh]

im trying the decipher the code...i dont get it?

[jcgemt2003]

im trying the decipher the code...i dont get it?

Oh...its not a code its just some crappy way to show me beating you in a race. My postion as aposde to yours in a race.(rei)

[laloosh]

Oh...its not a code its just some crappy way to show me beating you in a race. My postion as aposde to yours in a race.(rei)

im going to end this discussion by saying cobb who?

[laloosh]

Oh...its not a code its just some crappy way to show me beating you in a race. My postion as aposde to yours in a race.(rei)

im going to end this discussion by saying cobb who? (enguard)

[jcgemt2003]

im going to end this discussion by saying cobb who?

damn (dunno)

[Karma_hunden]

get a fckin evo. the end.

[menaspeed]

if you wana get every young kid at a light reving the crap out of there drop civic with fake spoons stickers al over then get the speed 3 . now if you wana have that sleeper look low key get a speed6 . i had the speed3 and my wife when she drove it will hate all this punks flashing lights and asking to run .

[laloosh]

funny you say that, i cant get a race unless its set up

[00protegeracer]

get a fckin evo. the end.

i agreegree(wrc)

[Lil_vicious559]

90-100% at the light you will get someone at the stoplight wanting to race!!

http://www.dragtimes.com/images/9953-2003-Mazda-Protege.jpg


60-75% at the light you will get someone at the stoplight wanting to race!!

http://www.pacificmazda.com/images/vehicles/mazdaspeed/mazdaspeed61.jpg


40-50% at the light you will get someone at the stoplight wanting to race!!

http://www.rsportscars.com/foto/06/mazdaspeed307_03.jpg


(thumb)