Mazda 3 vs MSP

[ZoomVT]

This is not your typical useless poll. I have been offered a 2003 MSP with only 12k miles on it at what i think is a decent price. I always liked MSPs and actually i dont think there is on in Vermont other than the one i have been offered. I love my Mazda 3 and i wouldnt trade it for anything else.... so i thought, but this car has made me think of it; low mileage and cheaper, my 3 already has 28k miles. I was thinking of waiting till end of spring and trade for a new 2006 3 so i was gonna trade anyways.
How do you guys feel about the MSP?
Would you trade your Mazda 3 for a MSP?
Right now there is only a 20% chance i do it but i want to hear some opinions.
thanks!

 

[txmazdaspeed]

The MSP is a very nice car as is the Mazda3. I think the MSP only has 10 more HP and TQ than our cars which to me isn't really worth it. Thats just my opinion and besides the Mazda club I'm meeting with has a bunch of Proteges and only 2 Mazda3's. Its your decision.

 

[osu1steve]

Looks like most of the mods on your 3 are non-performance related. If you are interested in modding to increase performance, it'll be much easier to get power out of the MSP for less investment for the simple fact that it has a turbo in it already. Another awesome thing about the MSP is the limited make - feels nice to have something that very few do.

I've had my MSP for almost two years now - bought one of the last ones left on the lot. I love it and have contemplated trading it in only for a speed miata or speed 6, but just couldn't do it - I'd miss my car too much.

Funny how Mazda doesn't have quite the reputation of some other Japanese manufacturers, but IMHO they sure do make some of the best vehicles out there in their class. Trading a 3 for an MSP, I don't know that you could go wrong either way.

 

[geomatics_tech]

My friend has a 3, and it is worlds different than my msp. The msp handles very good from the factory, has a LSD, even though the power numbers are similar the power band is much better in the msp. My msp also squeeks, clunks and gobbles, while the 3 is rather refined. Its a trade off, I like em both.

 

[ZoomVT]

thanks guys for the reponses. I love my mazda 3 and its true the MSP barely has some extra power on top of the 3. I just really like the fact that is a very unique car and it has the turbo so it would be cheaper to mod.
Steve, my current mods are non-performance because i have been sort of holding for the warranty. being a first year car i was worried many problems could arise and the longer i could keep the warranty the better. I am at almost 30k miles now and it has been a very solid car, next spring could be a big development for my car. Either that or trade for another 3, thats whats holding me up. If i keep my car i would probably go with a new header and exhaust system. i already have KVR rotors and EBC pads that have to be installed. And depending on cashflow i may be getting a turbo in the summer. This all depends on the mazdaspeed 3 (if its sedan im getting it. if not im turboing my 3).

Anywas, to keep this thread on topic. This ride is being offered to me for 12k with only 12k miles. Right now i am trying to convince my best friend to get it for himself. I just want this car to go to someone that can appreciate it.

 

[kicker22705]

i wouldn't necessarily say the msp is cheaper to mod.

it might reach up to 200-250whp cheaper than the mz3 but anything above that it'll be cheaper w/ the mz3. you'll need forged internals, new clutch, new turbo, w/ good ems to go any higher w/ the msp (not to mention stronger tranny bit later), while all you need is a turbo kit for the mz3 to go nuts.

 

[ZoomVT]

what do you guys think about this:

<table class="MsoNormalTable" style="width: 100%;" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody><tr style=""> <td style="padding: 1.5pt; width: 92%;" valign="top" width="92%"> ALERT! Major odometer problems were reported by a DMV under the Truth-In-Mileage Act for this 2003 MAZDA SPEED PROTEGE (JM1BJ227130644655). This vehicle does NOT qualify for the CARFAX Buyback Guarantee.<o></o>

<o> </o>

Not Actual Mileage Title - issued by DMV when the owner discloses mileage fraud or a broken odometer. <o></o>

</td> </tr> </tbody> </table>
:'(
my dreams... squashed...

 

[tsunami]

don't trade it dude.... keep the 3 and either trade that in for an 06 or mod the one you have... think you will be happier in the long run...

 

[ZoomVT]

yeah i think you are right.
the 06 standard equipment is nice. heated seats for teh win

 

[SilversunMSP]

Get both!!! That's what i did. The MSP is more of a maniac street performer. 10 hp may not seem like much but on a nice cool day it makes all the difference in the world. The MSP comes with a suspension setup that results in skidpad numbers you would have to pay Boxster money to get. I've put 1400 into the suspension on the Mazda3 and still can't keep up with my wife in the MSP, but I'm getting close.

As far a comfort and features, the 3 wins handsdown. This is the car we take out on the long drives to visit family. The only feature the MSP can beat is the stereo, because it comes with a Kenwood. The seats in the 3 are way better, that's probably my only gripe with the MSP.

 

[Solo2Protege]

MSP pros
- awesome handling
- oem turbo
- good looks
- limited edition
- good aftermarket
- OEM Kenwood Audio

MSP cons
- older model
- FS engine has it's weakpoints
- rougher ride (not to say it's harsh, just rougher than the 3)
- refinement

MZ3 Pros
- updated refinement
- good handling
- better trade-in value
- good base engine for power (still to be proven long term tho)
- nice interior/looks
- OEM Bose option (not as good as the MSP Kenwood)
- indash 6CD

MZ3 cons
- heavier
- more $$ for maint. and parts
- less aftermarket vendors/parts to choose from (but growing fast)
- insurance *might* be slightly higher for a newer car



It's an extremely tough choice, if it was me, i'd have to go with the car that handled best. (which is why i'd NEVER sell my Protege )