Is it only me or does anyone else think that the innovative and young spirit of the Mazda designs of late 80s and early 90s are being replaced by a more conservative and average designs ? Look at the new 626, the new Astina, and the Familia. (I am talking about the European versions, but I dont think the US versions are any different when it comes to innovative design) I wonder if thats a result of Ford's decisions on Mazda. Or is there now a new generation of designers at Mazda who lack the extraordinary and special spirit of the old Mazda designs. Is there a single person who would disagree that the previous 626 was much better a design than the current one ? Or the Astina/Lantis ? What about the new MPV..


PS. Why does the counter for this forum read something like 630 and there are about 50-60 messages ?

one thing you should understand is mazda designs might have looked more innovative and creative but they lacked the reliability and durability of fords. A matter of form and function should be considered while comparing the two brands. so i dont think if ford has an effect on mazda, thats a negative

As a Millenia owner, I have to disagree. It's one of the most beautifully styled cars on the road, inside and out. Mechanically, you'd have to regard the 2.3L Miller cycle engine as innovative...
Also, the mid '90s MX-6 was certainly far more striking than the car it replaced.
Russ

I think I have noticed a more comservative attitude in Mazda designs also but that applies to, the late 90s designs (in my opinion). Might this have something to do with the economical crisis in Japan ? I dont know, but I guess that is a factor. As for Fords compared to Mazdas, it is like comparing boredom and joy! Ford designs have always been BORING! for me! And for reliability, IMHO one can say so only if he has never owned a Mazda.

Can someone please tell us the models that FORD designed for MAZDA ? And has Mazda ever designed models for FORD ?

Mazda's influence has helped Ford innovate, without a doubt. I remember walking into a Ford showroom in 1989, driving a pathetic Mercury Topaz (traditional Ford), and then taking out a Probe with a Mazda drive train (including that silky 5-speed stick). Bought the Probe on the spot...and a second one the next year.
I see an awful lot of 626 in the Contour/Mystique.
As for the poster who asked what vehicles Ford has designed for Mazda...every truck or sport-ute Mazda has sold in the US in recent years is a rebadged Ford.
Ford also has kept Mazda alive with cash infusions as it tries to recover from the financial disasters the rotary engine repeatedly has inflicted on it.
Russ

It's just you. The only innovative and and exciting Mazda design ever would be the MX-5, although the 3rd generation Miata falls disappointingly short of the looks and quality of the Miata M1 and M2