Introduction
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Market Position
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Segment:
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Compact car segment.
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Reputation:
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Known for reliability, sporty handling, and good value for money in its class.
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Competitive Analysis
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Key Competitors:
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Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier.
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Key Features
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Engine Options:
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Offered with a range of fuel-efficient and capable four-cylinder engines.
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Handling:
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Praised for its responsive steering and well-tuned suspension, offering a more engaging driving experience than many rivals.
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Design:
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Sporty and aerodynamic styling, often available in sedan and hatchback body styles.
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Manual Purpose
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Target Audience:
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Professional automotive technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Engine:
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Engine mechanical, cooling, lubrication, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, engine management systems (ECU).
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Transmission:
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Manual transmission (MT), automatic transmission (AT), clutch system, driveshafts, differentials.
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Brakes:
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Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) if equipped, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.
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Suspension:
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Front and rear suspension components, steering system, wheel alignment specifications.
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Electrical:
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Charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, power windows, mirrors, locks, wiper/washer system, audio system wiring.
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Body:
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Body and frame construction, exterior trim, doors, hood, trunk lid, glass, interior trim, seating, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning).
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Diagnostics:
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Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system information where applicable.
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance:
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Routine maintenance tasks, oil change intervals, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
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Repair:
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Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems, including component removal, installation, and adjustment.
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Troubleshooting:
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Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon problems.
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Specifications:
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Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, component dimensions.
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Wiring Diagrams:
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Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
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Diagnostic Tools:
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Covers use of common diagnostic tools and equipment specific to Mazda vehicles of this era.
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Rebuild Procedures:
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Likely includes detailed procedures for major component rebuilds (e.g., engine, transmission).
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Engine Specifications
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Primary Engine
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Engine 1 Displacement:
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1.5L (1498cc) I4 (e.g., Z5-DE)
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Engine 1 Power:
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Approx. 90-92 hp @ 5500 rpm
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Engine 1 Torque:
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Approx. 90-95 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
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Engine 2 Displacement:
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1.8L (1839cc) DOHC I4 (e.g., BP-ZE)
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Engine 2 Power:
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Approx. 120-125 hp @ 6000 rpm
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Engine 2 Torque:
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Approx. 115-120 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
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Engine 3 Displacement:
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1.6L (1598cc) I4 (e.g., B6-ZE)
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Engine 3 Power:
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Approx. 100-105 hp @ 6000 rpm
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Engine 3 Torque:
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Approx. 100-105 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
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Performance
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Compression Ratio:
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Varies by engine, typically 9.0:1 to 10.0:1
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Redline:
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Typically around 6500-7000 rpm, depending on engine variant.
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Fuel System
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Fuel Delivery:
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Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Multi-point or Sequential Fuel Injection.
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Fuel Type:
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Unleaded gasoline (87 AKI or higher recommended).
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Fuel Pump Pressure:
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Refer to manual for specific PSI values, typically 35-45 psi for EFI systems.
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Transmission
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Standard
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Type Standard:
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5-speed manual transmission.
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Optional
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Type Optional:
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4-speed automatic transmission.
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Features
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Clutch Type:
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Hydraulically operated dry single-plate clutch.
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Transmission Fluid Type Mt:
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API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (refer to manual for exact specification).
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Transmission Fluid Type At:
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Dexron III or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid).
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Differential Fluid:
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Gear oil SAE 80W-90 (refer to manual for specific type and capacity).
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Dimensions
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Exterior
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Wheelbase:
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Approx. 102.7 inches (2609 mm)
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Length:
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Approx. 170-175 inches (4318-4445 mm) depending on body style.
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Width:
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Approx. 66.7 inches (1694 mm)
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Height:
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Approx. 55.5-56.5 inches (1410-1435 mm) depending on body style.
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Wheel Bolt Pattern:
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4x100mm (typically)
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Tire Sizes:
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Common sizes include 185/65R14, 195/60R15 (vary by trim and year).
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Weights
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Curb Weight:
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Approx. 2400-2700 lbs (1089-1225 kg) depending on configuration.
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Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
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Refer to VIN sticker on vehicle or manual for exact GVWR.
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Technology Features
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Infotainment
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Audio System:
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Typically a factory AM/FM/Cassette player, with optional CD player on higher trims. Aftermarket head units common.
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Speakers:
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Configured for 2, 4, or 6 speakers depending on trim.
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Driver Assistance
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Cruise Control:
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Available on many LX and ES trims.
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Instrument Cluster:
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Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel, and temperature. Warning lights for system diagnostics.
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Connectivity
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OBD Port:
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OBD-II compliant from 1996 onwards, facilitating emissions and engine diagnostics.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 to 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual).
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Air Filter Replacement:
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Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km) or as needed based on driving environment.
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Spark Plug Replacement:
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Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km), depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum).
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Timing Belt Replacement:
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Critical! Typically every 60,000 to 90,000 miles (96,000 to 144,000 km) for interference engines. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. (Refer to manual for exact interval and engine type).
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Viscosity:
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Commonly 5W-30 or 10W-30 API SJ or higher (refer to manual for exact specification and ambient temperature chart).
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Coolant Type:
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Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda blue coolant or equivalent. (Refer to manual for specific type).
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Brake Fluid Type:
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DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on system requirements (refer to manual).
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Power Steering Fluid Type:
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ATF Dexron II/III or specific Mazda fluid (refer to manual).
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Known Issues
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Engine Mounts:
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Wear and tear leading to vibration, especially under acceleration/deceleration.
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Cooling System:
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Radiator leaks, thermostat failures, hose degradation are common maintenance items.
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Suspension Components:
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Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can affect steering and ride quality.
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Exhaust System:
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Corrosion and leaks, particularly in areas with road salt.
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Electrical Connectors:
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Corrosion or loose connections in body electrical systems, especially ground points.
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Vehicle History
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Brand Heritage
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Mazda Philosophy:
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Mazda has a history of producing engaging and fun-to-drive vehicles, often with a focus on driver involvement and quality engineering.
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Model Evolution
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Generation Identifier:
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This period (1994-1998) represents the second generation of the Mazda Protege (BG chassis, replaced by the BJ chassis in 1998 for some markets, meaning this manual may cover the end of the BG and start of the BJ).
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Facelifts Updates:
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The Protege underwent minor styling updates and feature changes throughout this generation, with a more significant redesign often occurring mid-cycle.
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Production
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Manufacturing Locations:
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Primarily Japan, with potential assembly in other regions for specific markets.
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Sales Performance:
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The Protege was a strong seller for Mazda in the compact segment, contributing significantly to the brand's growth during the 1990s.
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