BV (Mk1) Wagon and Panel Van 323

In June 1978 Mazda released a 323 wagon in two-door and four-door versions, powered by a 48kW 1.4L engine.

The former sold poorly but the latter survived – in typical Mazda fashion – far into the life of the newer, front-wheel drive BD series 323 generation.

In late ’81 the wagon received a new slanted nose with a similar headlight and grille design to the front-drive 323s, along with a five-speed manual or optional three-speed auto gearbox, small trim changes and a 50kW 1.5L four-cylinder engine.

And the two-door wagon reappeared as a two-door panel van, with a 380kg payload, no rear side windows and a four-speed manual transmission.

The pair limped on until the Mk3 323 range arrived in late ’85.