You're confronted with the choice of an '05 Mazda 3 hatchback with 50k for $12,600, or an '07 Mazda 3 hatchback with 50k for $14,700. Which do you go for and why?

I think the '05 is a better deal, but man I really like the color on the '07. As far as I know the engine and features are the same. Although the '07 has an outlet and aux input, whereas the '05 does not.

Thanks for your input!

 

For me that would be a fairly tough choice because I don't care about the aux input and like the look of the earliest 3's the best.
But for you, I think you have made up your mind already, and I think you would be happiest with the '07. I say if that's what you want, that's what you like, then go for it! Be happy.

 

That's a bit of miles on the '07. I think I'd swing more towards the '05 station wagon.

 

16,600 a year is high and you might be able to use that to bargain with, but as long as it wasn't a former fleet or rental car (can you say, "abused?") you should be good to go. The car may have been used by someone that had to travel far to and from work? Highway miles are generally the easiest.
You should however make sure the engine mounts are serviceable... especially the one on e belt side (RS.) In fact, if its a Mazda dealer your looking to, make that part of the deal. A new RS engine mount, a.k.a. #3.
And get a CarFax from the dealer, and any service records, etc, etc....

 

CarFax...or...how about a CarFox? LOL
I watch to much TV

 

You watch too much TV. (CarFOX???)
(Silly boy.)

 

thanks for the replies, I think I'll be getting the '05! They just dropped the price more and added a 2 year service plan.

 

I would see about the 07 Myself, interior changes to me made it a little nicer inside. See if they will drop the price on it.
As for mileage, I have over 36K on my 08, it is not hard to do.

 

The carfax comercial??? No??? Youtube it.

 

What are the options in each car? The 07 came with more standard equipment, and more trims. Is it manual or auto? The 05 has a 4-speed auto, and the 07 has a 5-speed auto. I have an 05 and prefer that styling over the 07, but I'd take an 07 with DSC over an 05. I've never really needed DSC, but i drive with a lead foot, and i'd like to have that assurance that if i make a mistake, or a car pops out of no where, that my car will automatically try to maintain control. Also, it's helps in the snow. If the 07 doesn't have DSC, then take the 05. It seems to have been babied more. I have 91,000 on my car and no problems (Knock on wood.) Either decision you make is the right decison. It's a 3, and everyone here loves their 3's.