Looking to buy a 2005 Mazda 6 Sportswagon. I have had mazdas in the past really long time ago the 808 and glc. Not knowlwdge with new ones.

Car has 130k single owner.
Questions:
Do they rust out like many japanese cars do?
How are the transmissions (son had a 626 tranny went, usually ford trannys are terrible)
Any issues do I need to know about? exhaust, suspension etc.

Appreciate any words of wisdom.
Madness

 

No rust issues, unless you drive on salted roads. Japanese cars seem to have very little rust issues, if treated well, & you avoid salted roads.
2005, is the crossover from the 4 speed to 5 speed auto & 5 speed manual to 6 speed manual. No issues with the manual boxes, there were a few issues with the 5 speed auto, however, if it was an issue, it would of been fixed under warranty.

Nothing major about suspension, just old age & high mileage takes its toll.
Not aware of any exhaust issues.

I had a 2006 Sportswagon ( RHD ) built in Japan with the 2.3ltr motor & 5 speed auto. Never had an issue, never missed a beat.