The Mazda 808, also known as the Mazda Grand Familia, was a compact car produced by the Japanese automaker Mazda between 1971 and 1978. It is part of Mazda’s Familia/323 series, known for its combination of affordability, practicality, and sporty appeal.
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The 808 designation specifically referred to models equipped with piston engines, distinguishing them from their rotary-powered counterparts, such as the Mazda RX-3, which was marketed as the Mazda Savanna in the Japanese domestic market (JDM).
Design and Features
The Mazda 808 featured a boxy design typical of early 1970s compact cars, offering a spacious interior for its size. Available as a two-door coupe, four-door sedan, and five-door station wagon, the 808 catered to a variety of consumer needs. It was praised for its simple yet functional design, which was well-suited for families and budget-conscious drivers.
Inside, the cabin was straightforward but comfortable, with a minimalist dashboard, basic instrumentation, and enough space for four adults. The emphasis was on practicality, making it a popular choice for commuters and families during its production years.
Engine and Performance
The Mazda 808 was powered by a 1.2-liter, 1.4-liter, or 1.6-liter inline-four-cylinder engine, depending on the model year and market. The engines were designed for reliability and efficiency, offering modest power but excellent fuel economy, which was a key selling point during the 1970s when the global oil crisis pushed buyers towards more fuel-efficient cars.
The car delivered around 60 to 80 horsepower, which may not sound impressive by today’s standards, but for the era, it was sufficient for everyday driving. The 808 featured a rear-wheel-drive layout, contributing to its balanced handling characteristics.
The Rotary Alternative: RX-3/ Savanna
The Mazda RX-3/ Savanna, the rotary-engine variant of the 808, was much more powerful, thanks to Mazda’s innovative Wankel rotary engine. The RX-3 became famous for its sporty performance and became a favorite among enthusiasts, while the 808 remained the more practical, economical choice for everyday drivers.
Legacy
While the Mazda 808 was not as widely celebrated as its rotary siblings, it played an essential role in Mazda’s growth as a global carmaker. It was sold in numerous markets, including North America, Europe, and Asia including a considerable presence in Pakistan, and it helped establish Mazda’s reputation for building reliable, affordable cars.
Today, the Mazda 808 holds a certain appeal for classic car enthusiasts who appreciate its vintage design and simplicity. Although it lacks the performance pedigree of the RX-3, it remains a testament to Mazda’s ingenuity during a critical period in automotive history. Its affordability and solid engineering have allowed several examples to survive over the decades, making it a notable classic in Mazda’s extensive history.
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Although uncommon, the Mazda 808 can still be spotted on the road and cherished by enthusiasts who continue to preserve and modify examples of the car to this day.
Some rare examples of Mazda 808 in Pakistan
The Mazda 808 was a practical, efficient, and affordable car that catered to everyday drivers during the 1970s. While overshadowed by the sportier RX-3, it remains an important model in Mazda’s lineup and has gained recognition among classic car enthusiasts for its durability and no-nonsense design.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
