The Mazda MZI is a small inline-4 cylinder automobile engine sold by Mazda as the “MZI” and by Ford Motor Company as the “Zetec-SE” and renamed Duratec. One can purchase a Mazda engine for pennies on the dollar with low mileage for ridiculously low prices. Partly due to the fact that the European engines need replacing in Europe about every 40,000 to 50,000 miles due to more stringent emission laws. Ignore the term Duratec for now as it can confuse the matter.

MZR is a naming system added to Mazda’s most recent inline-4 cylinder gasoline powered engines. The MZR terminology is a direct representative of the Mazda L-engine (1.8L – 2.5L) or Mazda Z-engine (1.3L to 1.6L), including the new-generation 2.0L and 2.2L Turbo Diesel named MZR-CD.

FYI: Each engine under the MZI/MZR name has its own, unique engine code and for accuracy, particularly in the search for a replacement Mazda engines can be identified with the VIN.

The Z series are DOHC, 16-valve, water-cooled engines with aluminum alloy head and block with cast iron cylinder liners. They also feature a special long intake manifold for added torque, S-VT continuous variable valve timing, and a stainless steel exhaust header.

Coincidentally the Mazda 626 engine is exactly the same as a Ford Probe. Since Ford used the 626 chassis as a start, making it possible to exchange both engines and transmissions, literally, as both cars are the same. The 2.0 L Dutatec (1991 cc, 121 cu in) DOHC 16 Valve I4 and the 2.5 L DOHC 24 valve V6 are interchangeable with the Ford Probe in particular.

It is easy to see why the used engine suppliers that want to give you the best price stay busy locating the best deals on low mileage used engines. A used engine with low mileage in many cases has less than 40,000 miles on it, which makes them a super value. Have your VIN ready for exact identification.