The last incarnation of the standard FD3s. Version VI was the refinement of all before it. ABS 16Bit Computer upgrades made this an electronics machine.
A system called EBD was now responsible for distributing effective braking force to the required wheel/s. RS dampers were beefed up in combination to improve handling and they were adjustable coil over units albeit with limited ride height adjustment.
As always the RS gets better 17" wheels. This time matching the RZ's BBS only in Silver not gun metallic.
Type R gets the older design curved spoke in 17" and RB models get the standard
flat 16" rims.
Radiator and intercooler enhancements were carried over from the previous version and all power figures remained the same on paper.
Grade and spec also remained the same, however there were some other more visible changes.
RB Auto Models are usually supplied wingless, but as you know. Everything at Mazda is an option.
The inside got a working over. Sit inside one of these cars and it doesn't really
feel like the old FD you know and love. Grey soft touch covering was fitted to
the dash and an interior colour change away from black was very noticible.
Dials also changed to white to give a fresh feel to the car and differentiate it from the
ninties.
Safety enhancements finally included side impact protection and the Audio Module was also enhanced.
These specs would remain until the final run of 1500 spirit R models in 2002.
Not a bad car for the money. They are almost the same spec but dont hold the
high price tags of the Spirits.
2000/October
Type RS GF-FD3S 1308cc 3 5MT FR 7.2km/l 3,848,000?
Type R GF-FD3S 1308cc 3 5MT FR 8.1km/l 3,548,000Yen
Type RB S-Package GF-FD3S 1308cc 3 5MT FR 8.1km/l 3,158,000Yen
Type RB GF-FD3S 1308cc 3 5MT FR 8.1km/l 2,948,000Yen
Type RB GF-FD3S 1308cc 3 4AT FR 7.7km/l 3,148,000Yen