Ford Ranger and Mazda shared a lot of parts back then due to a partnership between the two.I had a 1986 Mazda B2000 that was awesome. I would buy the modern equivalent if it existed. That little truck earned it keep and then some. It was not fancy, but efficient and reliable it had in spades.
I had an 87 Ranger with a 5 spd manual Mazda designed transmission in it
My Ranger was also an awesome truck