Mazda or Ford in disguise

[postul8or]

I'm comtemplating buying a Mazda 6 GS Sedan (can't justify the extra cost to get the Sport hatch). It's a little more sporty than a lot of cars in a similar class. I became a little more concerned about the prospect of owning a Mazda 6 when I learned that it is a Ford engine in the vehicle. After seeing my dad's Grand Marquis and a friend's Mustang go through many rounds of engine light issues I wonder what I'm signing up for.

Any comments about the quality of this vehicle in general?

Is the 6 speed automatic transmission developed by Ford, Mazda, Volvo or someone else?

[81Z28]

My dad has got an 03 mazda 6. The car has had no major problems and he has already driven it at least 85,000 since we got the car january of 03. We only had to deal with some of the recalls for a new car but nothing serious.

[theslipperychef]

If you are interested here is a great site to look at and get a lot of useful info. http://www.mazda6club.com But there hasn't been that many isuues with the ATX model.