HB

Glamorously futuristic inside and out, the new HB-series went in a completely different direction for the 929.

Although it was the same size as the outgoing 929L, the new 929 was roomier, glassier, lighter and more aerodynamically efficient. Independent rear suspension and rack and pinion steering were new additions.

The rather hat-shaped 929 Deluxe and Limited sedan were joined by two Limited and Luxury Hardtop models – an oddly styled 2-door and a flagship low-roof 4-door. Both were highly equipped, featuring digital instrumentation, a keyboard instrumentation binnacle, and, on the 2-door version, pop-up headlights.

However the racy new looks were let down by the retention of the ageing – though durable - 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, which now produced only 61kW of power.

A 5-speed manual was new, but Mazda persisted with the old 3-speed auto. Equipment levels rose from June ’83.