Best Model For A Base?

[IcebergMan]

Hi,

I'm going to be purchasing a new car soon and I'm looking closely at the Protege family. Anyways, I would eventually like to get my car to run low 14's to high 13's in the 1/4. Which Protege would be the best for me? Don't really care what year it is. Only thing I ask is that it can be had for around $15,000 (Not sure how much the Mazda Speed ones are.). Which model would you recommend?

Thanks!

 

[AznXstazy]

mazda speed for sure. couple of mods and ur there. they can run from 10-14k depends on milage and condition. check ebay now n then they should have a couple. theres a couple for sale in the f/s section of the forum. n welcome!

 

[joka1]

any model will do u fine, grab an es (sunroofs are nice) and throw a turbo on it...... change out the body kit to mazdaspeed and u have...........well s*** u have my car
anyway anymodel with the 2.0 motor is capable of running 13's with proper ems and tuning........ have fun and good luck
rob

 

[GrandBelialKey]

yeah, the sunroof is a valuable asset. I was quoted 1000 to put one in mine, but even then it's still not guaranteed not to leak or break.... I'd say in hindsight, buy an ES and turbo it.

 

[IcebergMan]

Okay, thanks. When you guys say ES what models are those? Sorry, don't know anything about Proteges. Also, what models come with the 2.0?

Thank you!

 

[joka1]

the es is a 2002+ sedan non turbo.......... (i dont remember if it was b4 2002)
it has the fs-de motor(same as mazdaspeed) sunrood, only downfall imo is the lack of a bodykit.........i.e. sideskirts, rear lip and i didnt like the front end..............

 

[wwpms6]

the es is a 2002+ sedan non turbo.......... (i dont remember if it was b4 2002)
it has the fs-de motor(same as mazdaspeed) sunrood, only downfall imo is the lack of a bodykit.........i.e. sideskirts, rear lip and i didnt like the front end..............

99+ all had the es model... except 99-00 had 1.8s, in 2001 they put the 2.0 in it. i'm not sure it there were es before 99.