 New 1998 Mazda 626 replaced a 626 that was totaled.  Been nothing but problems.  I'm an engineer, change oil religiously, chk tires etc.  Auto transmission failure at 66K miles.  Seems there was a design flaw in the tranny Mazda never fixed. After discovering this I didn't want Mazda parts used so I went to guaranteed for life tranny shop.  Rebuilt transmission still running strong.  Mazda refused to help with the costs as I used non-Mazda parts.  Nothing but electrical problems.  Factory car alarm goes off without any reason, windshield wipers slow.  Turn sig. blinkers are fast then slow.  Engine runs good but rest of car is a mess.  After owning 4 Mazdas I've not bought another and will not.