Hi RV,
I inadvertantly misled. I would never propose to bring a car from Australia to Mex. Much as I love this one I would just replace it with something suitable there. My only purpose in mentioning that what I drive is a topless beemer was to put the question in perspective - even in Australia where Toyotas don't often get vandalised, cars like mine are a bit more prone. So if gringos are resented perhaps there it would be very prone! That was my thinking.
However it has since been put to me that the bigger issue is that I might be inviting carjacking or kidnapping from driving around Mazatlan in such a car, and that is to me a much bigger issue than vandalism.
These things are why thoughts from those there with knowledge, are so invaluable to someone like me. Thanks to everyone for taking the time to put your thoughts down.
best, Wendy