Mazda 3 Hatch or Mazdaspeed 3..?

[flany13]

Hey guys I am new here, and I want to start off by saying hello.

I am currently in the market for a car and I am currently trying to decide between the 2008 Mazda Speed 3 or just the Mazda 3 Hatchback.

My decision is pretty much based on what the possibilities are for mods on both cars. Right now it seems as though a lot of mods i am interested in are mainly focused around the Mazda Speed 3, but if i find that is untrue then i would much rather spend 5k less on the Mazda 3 Hatchback.

Right now i am interested in getting a carbon fiber hood with a hood scoop, a cat back exhaust system, and possibly a body kit (not like a ricer, just to be more aftermarket than stock)

I am just curious if any of the Mazda 3 Hatchback owners have had trouble finding aftermarket parts for the mazda 3, or if there is a difference in fitment between aftermarket ms3 parts to regular mazda 3 parts.

Here are product links i have been looking at. Are these meant for only the speed? or will they work on the regular m3 hatch?

http://www.bodykits.com/VIS-Racing/Hoods/Mazda-3-VIS-Racing-Carbon-Fiber-M_Speed-Hood-_-04MZ3HBMSP_010C/819814/

http://www.raceinspired.com/p-21126-hks-hi-power-catback-exhaust-mazda-3-mazdaspeed-2007-2008.aspx

http://www.raceinspired.com/p-13784-greddy-racing-ti-c-catback-exhaust-mazda-mazdaspeed-3-2006-up.aspx

http://www.cobbtuning.com/products/?id=4264


I would really appreciate the input, and if you have any specific resources i could look for aftermarket parts.

Thanks guys

 

[Gibbsinator]

I don't own either, but I'm pretty sure most parts between Speed3's and MZ3(Mazda3) are different. The body kits are done a little bit differently. That hood MIGHT MIGHT be universal, but I wouldn't imagine so. I know the MZ3 and MS3 use different exhaust systems, the MS3 has a wider diameter exhaust to accent the turbo and its increased power. Roughly, the MS3 is ~3" and MZ3 ~2.5". The Speed3 Features a 2.3 DISI engine, while comparable, it's not the same as the standard 2.3 MZR engine. Compression is different. It is also worth noting the Speed3 has a 6spd transmission stock, the standard 5spd transmissions in MZ3 doesn't fare as well when/if boosted.

Also worth noting... All MZ3s are governed at 118mph, while MS3 is governed over 150mph. Requires a tune/flash to change governor limit
If you want the best car in the end, you're better off with the MS3. You can make a fun, quick, and fuel efficient vehicle out of a MZ3 though...


I'm not an expert, the above is what I've noticed after looking over a lot of things in my own curiosity.

 

[flany13]

Thanks man I really appreciate the info! What you said about the MZ3 being more fuel efficient is also one big plus to me going that rout instead of the MS3, even though it is only a few mpg diff. But in the end I really want to be able to have free range of what i can do to the car and it seems as though they don't make nearly enough aftermarket parts and accessories for the MZ3 as they do the MS3. Its a tough decision, but maybe come time for me to actually decide i may just decide to spend the extra 5k...but who knows. Thanks again for the helpful comments, other Mazda forums are rather inconsiderate and immature to anyone who doesn't know everything there is to know about Mazdas.

 

[Gibbsinator]

Well, I believe you can get mods for it, I think the regular 2.3 has plenty of good mods, but it takes a lot of money and work to get a 2.3 to where a MS3 is. The 2.0l is super efficient in comparision, It makes a little less power but its worth consideration.

 

[Magus]

flany13,
I think it really depends on what your needs are. The MS3 uses premium gas, less mpg, larger lower profile tires that cost more to replace, synthetic oil, limited power on lower gears, and HID bulbs. If you are looking to get a daily driver to be reliable, good on gas, cheap to maintain, cheap insurance, and do not plan on turbo get the MZ3. They have exhaust, mid pipe, header, CAI, piggy-back to full standalone computers. Not to mention certain parts can be shared like chassis bracing or motor mounts. They had HID kits for the MZ3 projector and clear lenses.
I could see my newly purchased MZ3 going turbo as I got a 5 speed, but it will need prep work to make that happen. Personally I think MZ3 has decent power and currently getting 25-27.8 mpg (70/10 ~90/10...hwy/city) depending on traffic and driving. You would be lucky to get 25 mpg on just the freeway! Why the MS3 uses premium gas and uses so much of it makes me wonder. I see the Hyundai Sonata with a 2.0L direct injection engine running on regular 87 and getting 22 city/33 hwy and making just as much power! Heck even the Protege5 turbo people get better mileage! I would recommend test driving both and decide then which you can live with.