Mazda launches new high performance GT model

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 2, Issue 27, 3 December 1984, Page 19

Mazda launches new high performance GT model

A powerful Mazda 323 GT, with a unique local specification, has been introduced to New Zealand. The new 1.5 litre model is the first high performance Mazda in local assembly since the rotary-powered RX-2 which was built here from 1972 tol975. The three-door GT is the most powerful version of the 323 to go into New Zealand assembly. While based on the Japanese twin-carburet-tor 323 GT, the New Zealand specification version incorporates many changes which were devised by the Model Development Committee of Mazda Motors of New Zealand Ltd. The car's appearance differs from other Mazda 323 models because of full deep-skirted black bumpers incorporating a red accent strip and a distinctive black single bar grilje. These bumpers and grille are from the Japanese assembled 323 Turbo and are exclusive to the local 323 GT. Unlike the 323 GTs in other parts of the world, the locally developed car is fitted with 14-inch diameter aluminium alloy road wheels which are colour-keyed to the body paintwork. These

are in place of the 13-inch wheels fitted to other 323 models, and are fitted with low profile 185/60 series steel-belted radial ply tyres. Gearing is unaffected because of the very low profile tyres. Mazda engineers claim the high quality wheel and tyre combination provides excellent steering response and cornering power without any noticeable increase in parking effort. An added bonus is a slight improvement in ride comfort. To match the increased performance ability, antiroll bars are fitted to both front and rear suspension. Other 323 models are equipped with just a rear anti-roll bar. In addition, the 323 GT has firmer shock absorbers, and all suspension bushes are tuned to place emphasis on precise handling. Exclusive to the 323 GT is a black roof spoiler which is fitted to the top of the hatchback door. Engineers in Japan found that this high-mounted spoiler offered bette| aerodynamic qualities than a spoiler mounted lower on down the tail of the vehicle. This genuine Mazda aerodynamic accessory in-

creases the effective angle of the rear of the car and ensures the air separation is consistent from the roofline. The 169 km/h (105 mph) 323 GT has the ability to accelerate from a standstill to 80 km/h in 7.2 seconds and to 100 km/h in 10.5 seconds. It reaches 100 ■ km/h 1.1 seconds sooner than the 1 500 323 sedan. Official European fuel fig'ires reveal the GT engine is actually more economical than its less powerful brother. At a constant 90 km/h, the 323 GT engine averages 5.7 litres/100 km (49.5 miles per gallon), compared with 5.8 litres/ 100km (48.7 mpg). At a steady 120 km/h, the GT achieves 7.6 litres/ 100km (37.2 mpg) compared to the standard 1500's 8.0 litres/ 100 km (35.3 mpg). In the urban cycle fuel test, the GT averages 8.4 litres/ 100km (33.6 mpg), compared with 8.7 litres/ 100km (32.5 mpg). Inside the new Mazda is a strong emphasis on comfort and quality. The velour seat fabric was designed by Mrs Foster and made by Kawashima Textiles in Kyoto, Japan. Silver grey material is

enchanced by striped tones of grey, leading to a black and strong red accent stripe. The fabric is called Monte Carlo. The 323 GT features lounge-style rear seating, and moulded door panels which have been seen in some imported variants of the 323. These panels are made in Japan because the moulding technology is not available in New Zealand. A "walk-in" device on the front passenger's seat allows easy access to the rear. The

lower seat belt mounting is free to slide back and forth to eliminate the prospect of the belt webbing hindering rear seat access. A new, two-spoke sporty steering wheel is the same as that fitted to the Mazda 626 Coupe. The 323 GT also features as standard a tilting steering column, tinted laminated windscreen incorporating a shade band, tinted glass all round, moulded mudflaps front and rear, rev counter, and digital clock.

Split folding rear seats, cushion tilt and lumbar support adjuster for the driver's seat, rev counter and rear wiper/ washer system are par't of the 323 GT package.