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5 Cars That Mazda Should Have Never Discontinued

Slashgear 2024/10/5
AmbrosiniV/Shutterstock

Although this car doesn't have Mazda in its name, Autozam is actually a Mazda subsidiary that fell victim to the 1991 Japanese economic bubble. The Autozam AZ-1 is a small Japanese Kei car, so it definitely won't make sense in the U.S. with its tiny proportions. However, it has several features that make the AZ-1 a cool and unique automobile — like its gullwing doors, something normally only found on supercars.

One of the most interesting features that would catch the eye of many auto enthusiasts is the AZ-1's engine layout. Instead of the usual front-engine, front-wheel layout you'd find on most affordable sports cars like the 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata, this cute little car had a mid-mounted engine that drove the rear-wheels, giving it a well-balanced, dynamic drive. Even though its diminutive 657cc engine only delivered 63 horsepower and 63 lb-ft of torque to its wheels, it did so via a five-speed manual.

Its small engine and size might feel like it's an underpowered toy. But given that it only weighs 1,587 lbs., you really don't need that much power to get going. Also, this car wasn't built to beat big, hulking V8-powered muscle cars on the quarter mile. Instead, it was designed to be nimble around the track, where you can throw it around without worrying about losing control.

Unfortunately, the AZ-1 was discontinued in 1994 after having just sold 4,392 copies. But because there were so few AZ-1s, prices for the car today could go up to $20,000. It's still in demand after all these years because of its unique look and size. People still want it even if it's not as fast — besides, it's much more fun to drive a slow car fast, than to drive a fast car slow.

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