squeaky

Potential Protege owner here and newbie to this forum. I currently own a turbo Miata and am considering another Mazda purchase for a daily driver. I would like to stay with Mazda because of the track record of all Mazda's I've seen and heard of.

It seems like the 90-94 vintage Proteges are in my budget and would like advice from anyone regarding which particular years and models to look out for. I read the FAQ regarding model details and performance and seek anyone elses opinions to supplement. BTW, when was the FAQ last modified? Just curious cuz all I saw was "Release 1.94".

My goals in general for the Protege would be daily driver and one or two autocrosses. The Miata is my main performance car for racing duties.

Thanks in advance.

squeaky

I saw this thread about buying a 1st gen and got some good info.

I'm currently looking at a 92 LX and 94 LX.

semtex

you guys will be more than happy with a 1st gen pro, for a daily beater you cant go wrong, back and forth to work and still have some fun in the corners!! buy one

hiredgoon

LOL 'vintage'...to my eyes any car at least 1990 is 'newer'

Like any car out there, some people have good experience and some have bad.

I have had bad experience (my next car is definitely a Honda or Toyota, flame me if you wish), although my '92 DX has never ever left me stranded. As long as it can get me thru college...

Besides the problems I've had I can tell you the general pro's and cons (for the DX at least)

Pro: - quiet engine, decent ride, good fuel mileage, decently comfortable interior

Cons: - wind and road noise, body roll in corners

Identity_X

Make sure you look into an LX because there is quite a difference in performance and the price difference is not that significant.

Overall, the car is very reliable and fun to drive. There is also a lot of potential in it. I wouldn't be surprised if you leave your Miata for a daily driver once you get experience the Pro

squeaky

guys thanks for the tips. My Miata is a blast to drive and I don't see anything else replacing it as my autox car. BTW, you can see it here.

celi85

i would also look into the 90-94 323's...that is if you like the hatch look. ive had no problems with it, its quick and somewhat nimble. and as an added bonus, you can always say no to passengers

just my opinion though...

Identity_X

After looking at the pics, I agree. Nice!

After looking at the site, your username now has a whole new meaning

Finprof

I have a 92 Miata from new until 01 and a 91 DX from new that I still ahve. The Protege is an excellent low cost OTM. Although I ahve a DX, you should get an LX, given the negligible difference in cost between the two used.

protegeDX

wow. nice miata. i like both of the rims u got in the pix too. what kinda rims are the ones in the first pic? are those stock?

squeaky

Funny you should ask....those silver rims in the first pics are 16" Rota Circuit 8s, which fit Protege's perfectly.

They are actually up for sale...I'm trying to fund the Miata autox buildup so I'm getting rid of stuff I don't need. I'll post them on the classifieds on this forum.