A year after introducing the MX-3, Mazda made no changes to its popular sports coupe, other than a few updates to the list of standard features and adding a new exterior paint color. The MX-3 was available in both a Base version and a more powerful GS model. The Base MX-3 came with an 88-horsepower, 1.6-liter four cylinder, while the GS version came with a 130-horsepower, 1.8-liter V6 that was the smallest V6 engine available in the industry. A five-speed manual overdrive transmission was standard for both versions, while a four-speed automatic was available as optional equipment. Standard features for the MX-3 included bucket seats, power brakes, power steering, power exterior mirrors, 14-inch wheels, a rear window defroster, and an AM/FM/cassette stereo system. The GS added a rear spoiler, a tighter sport suspension, and alloy wheels. Options included air conditioning, power windows, and power door locks. Most drivers had words of high praise for the MX-3, calling it fast, nimble, reliable, comfortable, and hugely fun to drive. On the downside, some drivers thought the sports coupe was underpowered, and others noted that it had blind spots out the sides. But that didn't stop drivers from giving the car a good workout.