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  The 1992 Mazda MX-3 GS is a sport compact hatchback from the Japanese automaker carrying a V-6 engine and more options than the base MX-3. The car competed in the sport compact class with the Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica and Volkswagen GTI. The car's V-6 is known for being one of the smallest six-cylinder engines ever found on a production car. It is part of Mazda's MX-series which also included the MX-5 Miata and MX-6.
  
  

Engine

• With displacement of only 1.8 liters, the 60-degree V-6 is small for a motor with this many cylinders. Twenty-four valves, dual overhead cams and Mazda's VRIS variable length intake manifold system help make such a small engine perform at its best. The motor's compression ratio is 9.2-to-1, with bore and stroke of 2.95-by-2.74 inches. Comparable to contemporary entry-level sport coupes, the MX-3 GS engine produces 130 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 115 foot-pounds of torque at 4,500 rpm in its U.S. specifications. Drivers should expect fuel economy numbers of about 25 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
  
  

Drivetrain and Chassis

• The 1992 MX-3 uses a front-engine, front-wheel drive layout. The two transmission options were a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic with overdrive. The fully independent suspension system uses struts, coil springs and anti-roll bars at each end. Mazda's TTL twin trapezoidal link rear suspension adds two lower control arms to its MacPherson struts to allow the rear wheels to turn passively ever so slightly to increase cornering prowess. Vented discs in the front with drums in the rear handle braking, with ABS as an option.
  
  

Exterior and Interior

• With its 96.7-inch wheelbase, the MX-3 measures 165.7 inches long, 66.7 inches wide and 50.4 inches tall. Curb weight for the GS V-6 model is 2,618 lbs., over 200 lbs. heavy than the four-cylinder MX-3. Inside is seating for four with 42.6 inches front and 31.1 inches rear legroom. The MX-3's small rear seats are best suited for children or for short trips. Cruise control and a CD audio system were two other available options. With the rear seats folded, maximum cargo capacity is 37 cubic feet.