Mazda Familia was a series of compact cars from Mazda. This was one of the most successful Mazda cars selling around 10 million units. It was also one of the longest running production cars of Mazda between 1963 to 2003. Mazda Familia spanned 9 generations across 40 years. It was available as a sedan, hatchback, van, pickup truck and convertible. Here is everything about the 1967 Mazda Familia.
Engine
Known as the Mazda 1000, the 67′ model was a gamechanger with the inline-4 gasoline engine. As it was a compact car, the speed was not like a muscle car. The recorded speed for this Familia model was around 90mph. It was a lightweight car with great fuel efficiency. Apart from mileage, the Mazda Familia offered durability and it was the best car for long drives with family.
Technology
The 67′ Mazda Familia was a Front-wheel layout vehicle was. This gave the car better handling and durability. The engines were equipping with water-cooled system and carburetors. For better performances, the gearbox was important and Mazda Familia was equipped with the 4-speed manual transmission like other cars of its time. The vehicles independent suspension came with coil springs and live rear axle. Mazda Familia’s performance was a surprise as there were no hiccups. The hydraulic disc brakes gave great control to the car.
Comfortable Interior Features
It was not entirely luxurious, but Mazda brought in many comfort features. Both front and rear area were equipped with bucket seats. The wide bucket seats with vinyl upholstery were enough to keep passengers safe. Key features like warning light, speedometer, sun visors, interior dome light, and lockable glovebox were added. Some models were equipped with the Radio and Cigarette Lighter. The metal dashboard featured trims and other equipment.
Longest Running Vehicle of Mazda
The Mazda Familia holds the record of one of the longest running vehicles of the brand. A vehicle lasting 40 years is a huge feat. Mazda dominated the market with these compact cars. Mazda Familia was available in different names. In Japan, it was known as the Mazda 323. This was one of the best selling cars from Japan. Familia did great sales in major countries like England, Australia, New Zealand, and USA.
Racing Package
Some models of the Mazda Familia were a surprise package as they entered motorsport. It was a simple compact car, but some models were designed to dominate races. In the 1960s, Mazda Familia entered racing events like touring races, rally races, and club races. Some of the notable Mazda vehicles which entered racing were Mazda 323 GTX and Mazda Familia GTR. These cars also entered the World Rally Championship.
Cheap Car
Compact cars were not expensive and this helped Mazda last longer. The Mazda Familia was priced at $1,300 USD. The high-end coupes and wagons were sold for a maximum price of $3,000 USD. Mazda Familia created a sensational record in 2003 when the run ended. An estimated total of 10 million units were sold worldwide. It was available in every continent. The major exporting countries of Mazda Familia were Japan, Singapore, Phillipines, USA, Canada, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, England, and South Africa.
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