rabidbagger

Changing Jobs and it will require a fare amount of driving. So in an attempt to find something fun, quick, relatively roomy, and good on gas I've been looking really, REALLY hard at the Protege 5. Either a 2002 or 2003. What are your honest thoughts? I enjoy driving. I have a 96 Suburban, 2003 Grand Marquis V-8. From my research it looks like a solid machine that should be nimble and quick yet economical (if driven right). Something that will take the edge off a crappy day of work.
Thanks

Phantom Cruiser

I'd say "go for it".

vielster

I'd seriously reccomend the the '03 over the '02. Most of the 03's have a slightly different interior and an upgraded 7 speaker sound system (that sounds pretty nice). Not to mention you get a different, slightly more sporty looking set of alloy wheels and marker lights on your front fenders.

Stueck

yes, get it.

kargoboy

If you are going to do a lot of driving, you may as well enjoy it.
Buy it!

gottacatchup

i say go for it, be be warned, with the wrong exhaust, it's pretty loud over about 75 mph

dudeondacouch

which is why most recommend against getting the "wrong" exhaust.

mgs_freak

Just remember that it's gonna be a much firmer ride than your suburban and grand marquis. But it's oh so peppy and fun to drive.

TeamPlayers

I use my P5 for work all the time. I do cat-5 and fiber installs all day long. Between all that equipment and ladders I still have room for a sub and my sons car seat. I say go for it

gcs118

It will surely take the edge off a crappy work day. Take her for a spin on some twisty roads and let all your anger out. It feels good!

Stueck

and better cupholders :-P

rabidbagger

I would like to give a big THANKS to those who gave feedback. Often the sites are about as active as pond water. This one appears to be the Mazada-palooza. It was great to get a responses so quickly. Also, you have confirmed what I suspected. I owned a Mazada 86 626 some years ago and it was a great car. Mazada seems to often be over looked, which is fine, just makes it more affordable for me. Thanks again. I will post the Macheen after I've pulled the trigger.

Thanks AGAIN

Stueck

one thing about mazda that i like more than honda, toyota, dodge, chevy, etc, is that mazda's have torque and their engines play the tune to let ya know it!