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The 2005 Mazda 3 range of configurations is currently priced from $1,990.
Our most recent review of the 2005 Mazda 3 resulted in a score of 8 out of 10 for that particular example.
You can read the full review here.
This is what Malcolm Flynn liked most about this particular version of the Mazda 3: Solid pedigree , The new Mazda3 is better than ever
The 2005 Mazda 3 carries a braked towing capacity of up to 900 Kg, but check to ensure this applies to the configuration you're considering.
The Mazda 3 is also known as Mazda Axela (Japan and China) in markets outside Australia.
The Mazda 3 2005 prices range from $2,200 for the basic trim level Hatchback Maxx Sport to $5,720 for the top of the range Hatchback Neo.
That’s not a bad innings for a four-cylinder engine, even a modern one (although I’ve seen similar engines with more kilometres and still going strong). There’s a fair chance the piston rings and valve stem seals have lost some of their mojo and are allowing the oil to be burned in the engine. It’s normal wear and tear, but it needs to be fixed on the basis of the pollution being produced from the tailpipe. Also, eventually, something major will fail spectacularly and leave you stranded.
Your options include rebuilding the current engine or finding a second-hand engine with fewer kilometres on board and simply swapping it into your car. Thanks to the fact that the Mazda 3 was a popular car with younger drivers, they’re somewhat over-represented in wrecking yards, often with engines in very good condition. This would certainly be cheaper than rebuilding your current engine.
With your budget you’re looking at quite an old model, particularly if you want a 4WD dual-cab ute. You’d be looking at something around 2007-2008, but my concern with vehicles that old is that they will have done quite a lot of kilometres. If you want a dual-cab ute, and it sounds like the best option given your needs, go for a Toyota Hilux diesel. The alternative is an SUV, such as a Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Prado, but again you’ll be looking at older models.
Your choices both get The Tick, but the Benz A250 might be too sporty for a retirement car and the A3 is an upscale Volkswagen Golf. A good mate has just bought an Accord Euro and, even though it goes out of production soon, he loves it. You should test-drive all three.