Another new guy here.

[andrewmp6]

I'm looking to buy a 3rd gen protege since i like the body style and they are getting cheap around here.I use to own a 91 lx that was a beater but one of the best cars i have owned i put over 200k on it tell the tranny let go.So when shopping for a 3rd gen what should i look for is there any common problems to look out for?I did find this one http://louisville.craigslist.org/cto/1165660029.html what do you guys think about it?

 

[sanblaster]

that is not a 3.

looks like an mp3 and therefore should be a 2001.

 

[mckernan]

lol a mazda protege 3.

is that like the mazdaspeed civic?

 

[concept]

It may not be a bad price, but I would scrutinize every mod the guy added to make sure he didn't mess up anything. I've known too many people who try to do something, mess it up, and immediately put the car up for sale. A good test drive will reveal most issues, but it's always good to have a shop give it a good going over.

Good luck!

 

[andrewmp6]

I called him and left a message today no answer back yet.What is different about a mp3 protege is it just a spoiler and sub or what?I always let my step dad look at any car i buy hes old mechanic hes saved me a few times.I'll keep a eye on any mods done all i can tell from the pictures is the rims on it.

 

[concept]

It looks like the MP3s are fairly rare. See:

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/sedans/112_0101_2001_mazda_protege_mp3/index.html

 

[Katze]

i think they were talking about the msp lol but they did have mp3 in the title

 

[andrewmp6]

From what i read the mp3 is a es with a system added to it.

 

[lovmyrx7]

For the 2001 model year in North America, Mazda introduced the limited-edition Proteg MP3 featuring a new sport-tuned suspension, 17 inch Racing Hart wheels, and a 10 hp (7.5 kW) gain for a total of 140 hp (104 kW), which was achieved through a tuned factory ECU which advances ignition timing and requires Premium Pump Gasoline, cat-back exhaust by Racing Beat, and removal of the Mazda VTCS system which hindered air velocity in the intake manifold. As the name suggests, the MP3 also came from the factory with a complete 450-watt Kenwood powered MP3 stereo with 10-inch (250 mm) powered subwoofer. Only 1500 were produced - 1000 of the blue, and 500 yellows

If you don't even know what a MP3 is, i wouldn't suggest getting one since they are getting more rare and all...welcome to the forums