Sports sedans appeal to a wide range of gearheads, mainly due to the fact they combine high performance and impressive practicality in a package that doesn’t break the bank the way a proper sports coupe does. As many don’t tend to end up becoming classics like rarer sports cars or supercars, used versions of some forgotten gems can also be picked up for a bargain price long after they were available new from dealerships.
From European bruisers like BMWs and Alfa Romeos to American muscle sedans like the Chevrolet SS, there is something for everyone. For drivers who are partial to a cheeky Japanese sporting choice with four doors, there is a stunning and very underrated sports sedan that can be picked up for a criminally low price.
The Mazdaspeed 6’s Low Price Hides Its Sporting Potential
Silver Mazdaspeed 6 frontMazda
The vehicle in question is the 2006 Mazdaspeed 6, which is the spiced-up version of the first generation of the Mazda 6 Sedan. A hotted-up Mazda sedan had been hinted at for years before the Mazdaspeed 6 dropped, with concept versions of such a car being built by Mazda in the early 2000s. The marque showed off an MPS version of its 626 model, the forerunner to the 6, at the Geneva Motor Show in 2000.
It was set to have a tuned version of the 2.5-liter V6 used in the range-topping 626 of the time, with a pair of turbos tipped to boost its performance to another level. While the standard unit produced 200 hp, the twin-turbocharged engine was set to make 280 hp. The 626 was replaced by the Mazda 6 in 2002 though, and the MPS was never released. To make up for the disappointment, Mazda produced an MPS version of the new car as a concept too, which debuted at the 2002 edition of the Paris Motor Show.
The dream of JDM enthusiasts to have the car put into production remained just that though, at least for a few more years. Following some extra development, Mazda finally released the Mazdaspeed 6 in 2006. Going up against rivals such as the 2009 Nissan Sentra Spec-V, the latest Japanese sports-sedan challenger was bigger than the Nissan, had all-wheel drive and more power, and could be had for $27,995, which was $7k more than the Sentra but well worth it.
The Mazdaspeed 6 Entered The AWD Ring With Subaru And Mitsubishi
2006 Mazdaspeed 6 Grey Rear Angled View DrivingMazda
Utilizing an all-wheel drive system on performance cars was a well-developed practice by the mid-2000s, as Mazda’s Japanese rivals Subaru and Mitsubishi had proven with its Impreza STI and Lancer Evolution models over the preceding decade. German brand Audi had also illustrated its effectiveness with its range fitted with the legendary Quattro system. Feeling it was the right way to go, Mazda used an advanced AWD setup with a torque-split device, which helped apportion the power to whichever wheels needed it most to help improve traction.
This was backed up with a limited-slip differential, which ensured the grunt from the turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-four engine could be taken advantage of under acceleration. Mazda wasn’t messing about with the powerplant either, as its trusty aluminum L engine received a turbocharger, direct fuel injection, a forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods to ensure it could take continued punishment without firing itself out the exhaust.
The result of this work was 274 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, which was enough to help slingshot the 3,500-pound family sedan to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. This power was transmitted to the wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox, providing ultimate driver engagement.
The 6’s Foundations Were Beefed Up To Ensure It Could Slay Every Apex
2006 Mazdaspeed 6 front interior from backMazda
Of course, a performance car is nothing without some chassis upgrades to deal with the extra power thrown at it. Mazda’s engineers knew this all too well, so it treated the body to reinforcements that ended up improving its rigidity by 50%, ensuring more precise suspension location under cornering stress. This also allows the car to take advantage of a stiffer suspension setup, and in turn, further improve its agility and reduce body roll.
Its coil springs are 25% stiffer than the standard components at the front, while the rear springs are 37% stiffer. Thicker front and rear stabilizer bars were also used to mitigate lean around corners, while the ventilated front brake discs were upgraded. The results of these improvements meant this special 6 provided a far more thrilling and engaging drive than standard models, and not just in a straight line.
The 2006 Mazdaspeed 6 Represents An Amazing Used Bargain
2006 Mazdaspeed 6 (MPS) finished in silver with black interiorMazda
In the United States, used Mazda Mazdaspeed6 values occupy a distinct sweet spot, making this rare 2006–2007 turbocharged, all-wheel-drive sedan a sleeper cult classic. Standard high-mileage examples, daily drivers, or vehicles showing clear rust and heavy wear typically command between $3,000 and $6,000 on general marketplace listing sites. Clean, well-maintained models with low-to-moderate mileage (around 60,000 to 100,000 miles) generally sell for $7,000 to $11,000.
Exceptional, unmodified Grand Touring models showing under 50,000 miles routinely fetch between $12,000 and $15,000 on enthusiast-focused auction sites like Cars & Bids and Bring a Trailer. Because fewer than 10,000 units were imported to North America, condition heavily dictates pricing. Modified examples often experience value penalties unless built by reputable shops, while stock, rust-free examples from southern states consistently fetch a premium among collectors.
It Was Loaded With Features
2006 Mazdaspeed 6 rear seats from sideMazda
All versions of the Mazdaspeed 6 are perfectly usable as daily family wagons too, as they come with a handy list of equipment. All came with a remote keyless entry system, sports seats, and automatic climate control. Both variants also got a premium 200-watt Bose sound system, and a six-CD autochanger. The Grand Touring model came with some nice extras, such as heated leather seats that can be adjusted electrically and heated mirrors.
The Mazdaspeed 6 also came with options such as a DVD-driven satellite navigation system and an electrically powered moon roof, so keep a lookout for these when trawling through used options. For JDM fans after a family sedan that has a bit of spice, the Mazdaspeed 6 is a good option. Be warned that it only achieves a combined MPG of 19 though, so you’ll need to budget a bit for fuel.
Known Weaknesses Of The Mazdaspeed 6
Buying a used Mazda Mazdaspeed6 requires careful attention to known mechanical weak points across its engine, drivetrain, and chassis. The 2.3L DISI turbocharged engine commonly suffers from VVT actuator failure and timing chain stretch, which produces a telltale cold-start rattle and risks engine destruction if ignored. BorgWarner K04 turbo seals frequently wear out, causing tailpipe smoke at idle, while early direct-injection design leads to heavy intake valve carbon buildup.
Additionally, aggressive driving easily shears the weak factory rear differential mounts and can starve the hot, low-capacity transfer case of oil. Stock high-pressure fuel pumps also struggle on modified cars, putting the engine at risk of lean detonation. Finally, buyers in winter climates must rigorously check for severe underbody and wheel-arch rust, as well as worn front double-wishbone suspension bushings. Prioritizing a stock, rust-free example with documented VVT and fuel pump upgrades is essential.
The Mazda RX-8 Is A Tempting Rotary-Powered Four-Door Alternative
Black Mazda RX-8 side angle in black while drivingMazda
For those not after a sports car parading as a family bus, another performance four-door Mazda could be up your street. The RX-8 may look like a conventional two-door coupe, but its small rear-opening rear doors make it a four-door. While passengers who use the cramped rear seats may complain of a lack of space, this just gives you an excuse to reach your destination faster.
Unlike the Mazdaspeed 6, the RX-8 uses Mazda’s Renesis rotary engine. There are two versions of the small 1.3-liter unit, with the smaller four-port variant offering up 197 hp, though this one is only available with a four-speed automatic gearbox. For those after a driver-friendly six-speed manual, the six-port version is available. It’s available for even less than the Mazdaspeed 6, but it has several known flaws.
Higher mileage rotaries are known to suffer from compression issues, which can eventually lead to an expensive failure. The engine has to undergo an extensive restoration process should any lack of compression occur, making it unviable. Making sure the rotary engine is in good shape is key when looking to buy one, and you’ll also need to keep on top of oil levels as the engines are known to get through gallons of the stuff.
If you can find a good one though, you’ll have a proper little JDM bargain on your hands. Combine one with a good Mazdaspeed 6, and you’ll have a cool Japanese two-car performance garage.
Sources: Mazda, Kelley Blue Book.
