1993 Mazda Protege Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Mazda added some minor equipment upgrades to its Protege sedans for 1993. For instance, the entry-level Protege DX trim package added power...
Mazda added some minor equipment upgrades to its Protege sedans for 1993. For instance, the entry-level Protege DX trim package added power steering and a remote trunk release to its list of standard features, which also included power brakes and a rear-window defroster. The list of standard features for the higher-end Protege LX remained the same as the previous year, and included power windows, power door locks, power exterior mirrors, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, 14-inch wheels, and an AM/FM/cassette stereo system. Mazda also updated its badging on the Protege. As in previous years, the Protege DX was powered by a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine that generated 103 horsepower, while the LX trim package received the same 1.8-liter four-cylinder, but twin cams boosted its horsepower to 125. A five-speed automatic was standard for both models, while a four-speed automatic was optional. The Protege's aggressive performance, responsive handling, reliability, sporty looks, and interior comfort were some of its positive factors, drivers noted. On the downside, drivers had some minor quibbles with some of the Protege's interior appointments.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 1993 Mazda Protege appreciate its reliability and fun driving experience, especially noting its good handling and decent fuel economy. However, some have mentioned issues like exhaust noise and weak acceleration. Many recommend it as a reliable option for budget-conscious drivers."
My husband and I purchased this car at Christmas time in 2008 because we needed something more reliable than what we were driving to make it out to our family gathering. A rather plain and ugly looking little thing, it has grown on me immensely over the last three years. My biggest complaint with it is the exhaust leak. The car is very loud, but still drives like a charm. We rented a 2010 Mazda3 for a road trip that we took recently because we wanted something a little quieter. I was amazed to find that I was actually happy to settle back into my little Protege after the trip was over. My brother also owned a '93 Protege for a few years as a student. He drove it around Winnipeg and also made numerous trips with it from Saskatoon to Winnipeg. He never had any complaints about it and never had to do any major repairs. This summer he drove it out to Montreal and sold it to a wrecker once he got there - still mechanically sound with over 300,000k on it. (Getting it safetied in Quebec wasn't worth it). An awesome little car that I would recommend to anyone looking for something cheap and reliable.
December 22, 2011Very practical and reliable car! Took it to LA and Las Vegas in '98. Never had any serious issues during the time I owned it. It was actually the GT model, but that choice was not available here.
January 13, 2008My car is actually a Mazda Protege SE (in Canada) it has very few options other than power steering, breaks, mirrors, and a sunroof. I've had it for only 6 months and it has treated me well so far. It has about 276,000 kilometers on it and still runs like new, no oil burning or fluid leaks. There are a few rattles but that is to be expected for a 17 year old car. There is no rust on the car as it was undercoated every year. The 1.8l 4cyl with a 5 speed manual consistently gets 650km to a $40 tank in the city which is awesome, and it is cheap on insurance as well. Seems like a very reliable car so far and if you can find one used that is in good shape I would recommend purchasing it.
August 5, 2010What owners say
My husband and I purchased this car at Christmas time in 2008 because we needed something more reliable than what we were driving to make it out to our family gathering. A rather plain and ugly looking little thing, it has grown on me immensely over the last three years. My biggest complaint with it is the exhaust leak. The car is very loud, but still drives like a charm. We rented a 2010 Mazda3 for a road trip that we took recently because we wanted something a little quieter. I was amazed to find that I was actually happy to settle back into my little Protege after the trip was over. My brother also owned a '93 Protege for a few years as a student. He drove it around Winnipeg and also made numerous trips with it from Saskatoon to Winnipeg. He never had any complaints about it and never had to do any major repairs. This summer he drove it out to Montreal and sold it to a wrecker once he got there - still mechanically sound with over 300,000k on it. (Getting it safetied in Quebec wasn't worth it). An awesome little car that I would recommend to anyone looking for something cheap and reliable.
December 22, 2011Very practical and reliable car! Took it to LA and Las Vegas in '98. Never had any serious issues during the time I owned it. It was actually the GT model, but that choice was not available here.
January 13, 2008My car is actually a Mazda Protege SE (in Canada) it has very few options other than power steering, breaks, mirrors, and a sunroof. I've had it for only 6 months and it has treated me well so far. It has about 276,000 kilometers on it and still runs like new, no oil burning or fluid leaks. There are a few rattles but that is to be expected for a 17 year old car. There is no rust on the car as it was undercoated every year. The 1.8l 4cyl with a 5 speed manual consistently gets 650km to a $40 tank in the city which is awesome, and it is cheap on insurance as well. Seems like a very reliable car so far and if you can find one used that is in good shape I would recommend purchasing it.
August 5, 2010it is fun to drive but a bit weak in the acceleration department. that is easily remedied if you find the model with the DOHC engine. has a few squeaks but that due to it being 16 years old. i like the lines of the car thaey are very subtle but eye catching. mileage is great, it is comparable to our other car. ( 2000 ford focus)
October 21, 2009
