oceanpark: I did a review on the MP3 vs speed when I test drove it a while back. In the Mazdaspeed section under Yehawww my Speed is here...
Summed up. Steering is looser on the Speed, the MP3 is more precise when turning but harder to turn. Speed doesn't follow as many ruts though, and you don't have to hold on the wheel so hard all the time. She rides a little quiter, tire noise isn't as obvious, hits bumps a little better. Front end is tighter with less sway, rear is the same as mp3. Overall, car feels more smooth then the mp3 for daily use, and less harsh. Shifter is better as well.
Better Acceleration is noticeable right away, even before turbo kicks in. Now, it's no Vette or STI mind you, but it is quicker then the mp3, and it's obvious.
Stereo at first I didn't like. Really have to spend more time setting it up before you judge it. Head unit isn't bad, not quite the quality as z828, but does ff/rewind songs much much faster and has a few options the z828 doesn't for moving to folders, and random play options etc. Display is clear, but slower, it tilts though so sunlight doesn't effect it. Highs are nice, my MP3 was a tad sharper, and sub hits a little lower in the mp3, but sub in speed is defintely louder. The flip face option is a cool gimmick. The remote is a lot smaller, thinner, and lighter, I like it. Buttons are easy to use. Overall, I'd say their about the same sound wise, with very little differences once setup properly. Mid Range is definitely better in the speed though.
After looking at paint on the Titanium for a while, the MP3 is just boring now. Plain old blue. The metallic is really nice in the tit., but needs a lot of sun to see it.
You have to see the wheels in person, and judge from there. Pics do no come out right at all.