I have a MazdaSpeed Protege. It's a nice car, but If I had to do it again, I would easily choose either the SRT-4 or a VW Jetta 1.8T or VR-6.

As for the Mazda, the car is built solid, and is quite roomy on the inside. I honestly think that the Speed has more room in the rear seat area than my wife's Honda Accord.

The suspension is Tight to death. This car will hold it's on in any autocross event, given a good driver and good tires. On the street, its a little too firm at times, but very predictable at the limits.

The party stops where the engine starts. Lots of pulling power for a daily driver. But a very rough A/F ratio and a shitty ass side mount intercooler cause lots of hesitation in the heat. Upgraded FMIC/and exhaust goes a long way, as well as upped boost. The rods are hella weak and 10lbs is pushing the limit. Some people run 14 lbs. but the life of the block won't last long. With a better set of pistons/rods, and good eng. management, this car would def. be a street/strip contender..