The Mazda 323F BA or Lantis, is a quirky car from the early 90s that isn’t familiar to the vast majority of the Mazda fans, due to that fact that it wasn’t offered in the United States.
However, this compact hatchback has got a lot of cool styling features that make it an interesting find for the fans of non-mainstream Japanese sports cars.
About the model
The 323F was sold as the Lantis in Japan, Astina in Australia and New Zealand, Allegro in Colombia and 323F across Europe.
It features a five-door hatchback bodystyle with awesome-looking pillarless-doors that sets it apart from other Mazda 323s. This unique in many ways design was actually created by Porsche designers, and has some subtle elements reminiscent of nothing else but the 944.
Sports Version
The most sought after version of this is the rare and elusive Type-R variant (Not sure how Honda reacted to this naming) of the Lantis that was sold in Japan only.
It featured a 170HP 2.0L KF-ZE V6 engine mated with a Limited Slip Differential that gave it an edge over other 323s. Visually, its “5-door coupe” exterior came with optional extras like a front lip spoiler, side skirts, floating rear spoiler and coloured front indicators.
Modified 323F
The vehicle we’re shocasing in this articl is the 323F made for the european domestic market. The car is outfitted with a set of lovering spring with minial drop and a set of wide, period-correct JDM custom wheels that complement it’s sporty stance.
Conclusion
The Mazda 323F was truly a hidden gem in the automotive world. With its eye-catching exterior and iconic five-door hatchback design, it could have become an icon of 90s motorsport culture, but unfortunately it remained an odd-ball on the scene of Japanese sport cars. This model will be perfect for those who don’t want to go with the flow and rather put their hands on something more unique and authentic.
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