The Mazda ZM-DE 1.6-liter gasoline engine was produced by the company from 1998 to 2003 and was installed on the European, American and Japanese versions of the 323 BJ models. The modification of the motor for the European market is simply called ZM, it has a minimum of differences.
Z-engine family:
1.3 L – ZJ-VE;
1.5 L – Z5-DE, ZL-DE, ZL-VE, ZY-VE;
1.6 L – Z6, ZM-DE.
Specifications
| Production years | 1998-2003 |
| Displacement, cc | 1598 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 95 – 105 |
| Torque output, Nm | 145 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 78 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 83.6 |
| Compression ratio | 10 |
| Features | DOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.0 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mazda 323 2002) — city — highway — combined |
9.6 6.3 7.5 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~300 000 |
| Weight, kg | 140.9 |
The engine was installed on:
- Mazda 323 BJ in 1998 – 2003;
- Mazda Familia BJ in 1998 – 2003;
- Mazda Protege BJ in 1998 – 2003.
Disadvantages of the Mazda ZM-DE engine
- Structurally simple and reliable engine is afraid of only rare maintenance;
- Don’t delay changing spark plugs, or you’ll have to spend money on ignition coils as well;
- Timing belt replacement schedule every 60,000 km, but when it breaks, the valve does not bend;
- There are no hydraulic lifters here and every 100,000 km you have to adjust the valves;
- On long runs, an oil burner occurs due to wear on the valve stem seals.
Frequently asked questions about the Mazda ZM-DE
How much power does the Mazda ZM-DE make?
The Mazda ZM-DE develops 95 - 105 hp and 145 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Mazda ZM-DE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Mazda ZM-DE have a timing belt or chain?
The Mazda ZM-DE uses a timing belt.
Is the Mazda ZM-DE turbocharged?
No, the Mazda ZM-DE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Mazda ZM-DE need valve clearance adjustment?
Yes, there are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances have to be checked and adjusted periodically.
How long does the Mazda ZM-DE last?
The typical lifespan of the Mazda ZM-DE is ~300 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mazda ZM-DE?
Mazda 323 2002: city 9.6, highway 6.3, combined 7.5 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mazda ZM-DE installed on?
Mazda 323 BJ in 1998 - 2003; Mazda Familia BJ in 1998 - 2003; Mazda Protege BJ in 1998 - 2003.
What are the common problems of the Mazda ZM-DE?
Structurally simple and reliable engine is afraid of only rare maintenance. Don't delay changing spark plugs, or you'll have to spend money on ignition coils as well. All known problems.
