I'm sure this subject has been beaten to death in the past, but I'm new to this forum and would really appreciate some advice.
Just bought a 2003 ES/5sp a few mos. ago and love the thing . I'd like to improve the performance in stages (re: when I get the money) and would like to know what you folks recommend as a first step. I'm thinking exhaust, but I'm a ttl noob.
Also, when at the Mazda dealer the other day, they have available a MazdaSpeed exhaust for the car. 'Course, no one there could tell me anything about it except the price--225.00. Anyone out there know if does anything besides make noise?
Thx.

 

thats the Mazdaspeed axle back...gives very little gain...best bet is a catback exhaust or a CAI...just to start..other possibles are the J-spec cams and pistons

 

Thanks for the help. I've been reading the thread @ Injen & AEM. I think an intake will probably be my first investment.
Are there any decent axle-back exhaust systems out there, or should I just save my money for a good cat-back?
I don't think I'm ready to tackle cams & pistons yet...I'll run my warranty out first.

 

better investment to just go catback

 

Does anyone out there have either of these cat-backs installed:
Racing Beat or
SR Motorsports
These are the only ones I can find that are designed specifically for 2003 ES. If anyone out there has one please give me your opinions. If there are any other cat-backs made for the sedan let me know also.
Thanks!

 

check out www.corksport.com

i have the mazdaspeed axle back...it's got a great sound to it...i'm about to add a header, which will probably help out a TON (no more cats!) while you're searching...people on the www.protege5.com forum usually do group buys or have stuff like this for sale.

hope this helps!