Mazda 323
2,847 registered in New Zealand · 1977–2004 · 80% from Japan
The Mazda 323 is a recognisable name on New Zealand roads, with 2,847 registered across model years 1977 to 2004. It averages 8.1 L/100km in fuel consumption and produces an average of 76 kW. Most are petrol-powered hatchbacks with a 1.6L engine.
Below you'll find a complete breakdown of fuel types, body styles, drivetrain options, regional distribution, and estimated running costs. Select a specific model year to see detailed specs, buyer insights, and variant-level data for that generation of the 323.
Fuel Types
Mazda 323 fuel type breakdown: PETROL 99%, DIESEL 0%, OTHER 0%.
Fleet Age Profile
How many Mazda 323 vehicles from each manufacture year are still registered in NZ. Taller bars mean more of that year on the road — better parts availability and more mechanics who know it.
Mazda 323 fleet age profile: 2000: 123, 2001: 138, 2002: 199, 2003: 128, 2004: 18.
Drivetrain
Transmission
Mazda 323 transmissions: 5-GEAR MANUAL 27%, 4-GEAR AUTO 17%.
Engine Size
Mazda 323 engine sizes: 1.6L 29%, 1.8L 11%, 1.3L 10%, 1.5L 9%, 1.5L 8%.
Imported From
Mazda 323 imported from: Japan 80%, Not Known 20%, New Zealand 0%, Australia 0%, Other 0%.
When They Arrived in NZ
When Mazda 323 vehicles were first registered in New Zealand — showing import waves and buying trends.
Mazda 323 NZ arrival timeline: 2017: 1, 2020: 1, 2021: 1, 2022: 2, 2023: 2.
Estimated Running Costs
Select a model year to estimate fuel costs for that specific Mazda 323.
Colours
Colours shown are approximate representations of NZTA basic colour categories, not exact manufacturer paint codes.
Where They Are in NZ
Mazda 323 regional distribution: AUCKLAND: 531, CHRISTCHURCH: 221, HAMILTON: 119, TAURANGA: 92, DUNEDIN: 87.
Body Types
Similar Cars
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Mazda 323 are there in New Zealand?
There are 2,847 Mazda 323 vehicles registered in New Zealand as of March 2026, making up 0.1% of the total passenger fleet. Model years range from 1977 to 2004.
How much does it cost to run a Mazda 323?
Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Mazda 323 averages 8.1 L/100km. At current fuel prices ($3.41/L), that works out to roughly $64 per week or $3,315 per year in fuel, assuming 12,000 km of annual driving. Actual costs vary by model year, driving conditions, and fuel type.
What body type is the Mazda 323?
The Mazda 323 is primarily classified as a hatchback in the NZTA fleet register. It is also available in other body configurations: saloon, station wagon, light van. The most common fuel type is petrol.
Are Mazda 323 cars imported or NZ-new?
80% of Mazda 323 vehicles in New Zealand originated from Japan. The majority arrived as used imports, which is typical for this model. Check the import status and origin country for the specific year you're considering on the individual year pages.