So here it is -- our last test drive of a 2007 model year car. I put quite a lot of thought into which car should be the last '07 reviewed -- at least five minutes, maybe six -- but when I realized that the Mazdaspeed 6 was being discontinued after 2007, I knew I'd found the right one.
For those unfamiliar, Mazdaspeed is Mazda's in-house hot-rod division, and the Mazdaspeed 6 -- on paper, at least -- is one of the most impressive of the hopped-up mid-sizers, what with its turbocharged four cylinder engine with direct fuel injection, all-wheel-drive, four doors and subtle styling -- the exact same formula Audi applies to its oft-underrated A4 sedan.
Now, the argument over who builds the better sports sedan -- the Japanese or the Germans -- is almost as heated as the debate about Chevy vs. Ford pickups. To get my impressions on how the Mazdaspeed 6 compares to the Audi A4, check out my 2007 Mazdaspeed 6 test drive and review.
Got an opinion on Japanese sports cars vs. German sports cars? Come on, you know you do. Click the "comments" link below and let 'er rip. -- Aaron Gold
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Photo © Aaron Gold
You may want to check your facts about the Mazdaspeed6. My 2006 was built in Japan!!
You may want to check your data about the Mazdaspeed6. My 2006 was built in Japan!!
As much as I’m impressed by the fabulous Audi’s, Bimmers and M-B’s, I have to give the nod to the Japanese engineers for being able to get extraordinary amounts of horsepower out of remarkably few c.c.’s…which of course translates to less fuel waste, less polution and greater mileage between fill-ups. Their techno gap seems to be getting greater as the German’s continue to increase engine sizes and cylinder numbers. Also, the handling of many of the Japanese care are nothing short of marvelous(Acura NSX, one of my all time favs).
Mike —
Right you are! Turns out the Mazdaspeed 6 is the only variant of the Mazda 6 *not* built in the US. The article has been corrected — thanks for the heads up!
– Aaron
One of the main reasons for the Japanese motors seemingly outperforming the German counterparts is that BMW, Audi M-B have spent much of the last decade developing highly advanced diesel power systems. The latest 320d has more useful grunt (torque) than the 320i.
Andy, NY
Andy, I’m sure you’re absolutely right… now all they need to do is put one of those fine diesels in an affordable Audi or the new Bimmer 1 class.