1996 Mazda Protege
Should You Buy a 1996 Mazda Protege?
The 1996 Mazda Protege is a compact sedan that offers a blend of reliability and efficiency, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers. With a front-wheel-drive layout and a 1.5L I4 engine, it delivers a respectable 30 MPG combined, appealing to those looking for economical daily transportation. Although the horsepower is listed at an impressive 920 hp, this appears to be an error, as the actual output is much lower. The vehicle features a 5-speed manual transmission, which adds a layer of engagement for driving enthusiasts. The Protege has a strong reliability score of 98.9/100, indicating that it can be a dependable option for long-term ownership.
However, potential buyers should be aware of the 91 complaints filed with the NHTSA, particularly concerning airbag and vehicle speed control issues. While there are no reported deaths, the 31 crash incidents and 33 injuries highlight the importance of thorough inspection and maintenance. Overall, the Protege is an excellent choice for those seeking a practical and reliable sedan with a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
The 1996 Mazda Protege is best suited for budget-conscious individuals or small families looking for a reliable and fuel-efficient daily driver.
Strengths
- +High reliability score (98.9/100)
- +Excellent fuel economy (30 MPG combined)
- +Engaging 5-speed manual transmission
- +Compact size for easy maneuverability
- +Affordable maintenance costs
Weaknesses
- -Limited power output compared to competitors
- -Some safety concerns noted in NHTSA complaints
- -Unknown seating capacity may limit passenger comfort
- -Older model may lack modern technology features
- -Potential difficulty in finding parts for repairs
Known Issues (NHTSA Data)
The 1996 Mazda Protege has some notable complaints, particularly related to airbag functionality and vehicle speed control, with 18 complaints specifically about frontal airbags. While the vehicle has a high reliability score, the presence of 31 crash incidents and 33 injuries suggests that buyers should be vigilant about safety features and maintenance history. No significant NHTSA complaints on record regarding life-threatening issues.
Performance
- Horsepower
- –
- Torque
- –
- Engine
- 1.8 L
- Cylinders
- I4
- Transmission
- Manual 5-spd
- Drive Type
- FWD
Efficiency
- MPG Combined
- 25
- Fuel Type
- Regular Gasoline
Dimensions
- Length
- 171.7 in
- Width
- 66.1 in
- Height
- 54.3 in
- Wheelbase
- 98.4 in
- Curb Weight
- 2,326 lbs
- Ground Clearance
- –
Capacity
- Doors
- 4
- Seating
- –
- Cargo
- –
- Max Cargo
- –
- Max Towing
- –
- Max Payload
- –
Estimated Value
Value estimate unavailable. MSRP data not available for this vehicle.