thinking of getting a mazda 3 hatchback
 

I found a couple in my area. A 04 for 7k with 70k miles. and a 05 for 10k with 37k miles. is the higher priced one worth the lower miles? are there any issues I should about that certain years have?

There weren't a great deal of differences between the '04 and '05 models.... most of the fun stuff started changing in '06/07. Both of them are pretty low mileage for their age, especially the '05 model. I bought my '05 in 5/2005 (built in 3/2005) and just turned over 120k miles.

What you want to look at are the options the two cars come with. Both are hatchbacks so both are the 3s model with the 2.3L engine. Both should have 17" wheels, and both will have the leather steering wheel/shift knob. The differences are going to be in the option packages. The big ones available in those years were:

-ABS/SAB/SAC
-HID/TPMS
-moonroof/6CD
-leather/heated seats

There were probably a few little packages, but that's it as far as I know.

The primary thing I would look for is whether either car has the ABS/SAB/SAC package as ABS and side airbags weren't standard in '04/05. The Mz3 has a poor side impact rating without side airbags.

The second option I would look for would be the HID/TPMS package. The OEM HIDs are really quite good and if you can it would be great to snag a car with them. There are a few little tweaks you can do to the OEM HIDs to make them even better.

The third big option on the '04/05 model was the moonroof/6CD package. Some people have strong feelings about moonroofs so that could make or break the decision for you right there. If neither comes with the 6CD it's something you can easily add by finding a used stereo online. Note that if you want to use sirius radio (requires an extra module and subscription) you'll want the '05 model as the HU in the '04 isn't sirius ready...... or you can just buy a '05 stereo and stick it in the '04. :)

And lastly leather. Some people love it, some people hate it. I like the cloth myself but wish they put heaters in them..... one of these days I'll get around to adding heaters to my seats.

If the options between them are equal then just pick it based on color. Remember either way you're getting a low mileage car for the age. Make sure to check on the engine mounts and MAF wiring harness as those are commonly damaged/broken parts on the 3.

Hey, thanks for the info. what changed in '06/07? cause I'm also interested in a 2008. I havn't come across any that had moonroof or leather. how common are the issues you mentioned?