Hey guys, appreciate some opinion here.

I just recently sold off my Mazda 2, the previous gen. 2010 year. Currently moving back to West Malaysia.

Looking forward to buy a Ford fiesta Ecoboost version but came across Mazda 3 hatchback. I know Mazda 3 should be compared to focus but my budget is below 50k for used car.

Question is how well the Mazda 3 drives against the fiesta in terms of performance and handling. I would say I'm a heavy footer and tend to cut alot. Mostly will be using for highway. Would a m3 1.6 be enough for my use?

Should I get a fiesta ~40k, Mazda 3 2.0 ~42k, Mazda 3 1.6 35k?

Thanks for the reply. Had to opt out fofi Ecoboost due to the possible higher maintenance as well.

Any common issues for the older m3? Anything to note when checking for used unit?