Where can I find a dead 04-09 Mazda 3 sedan?

[c7scayman]

Looking to start a new project.

I want to use the Mazda 3 2.3L sedan as the project car. Looking for a very cheap one for $2000 or less with dead engine.

I want to convert it into a Mazdaspeed 3 sedan by installing a built forged engine and a turbo kit. If I can find the car for $2k, I can do this entire project for $12k after I sell my current cars and save up a bit more money. I prefer the looks of the sedan over the hatchback. Plus, it would be a nice sleeper. And I love the way the Mazda 3 drives and looks.

It is just so hard to find one with a dead engine since they are reliable and still fairly new.

 

[JDM_Pro5]

Sounds like an awesome project. I have a 2004 2.3L sedan that I would love to forge and boost.
As far as reliable, I have had nothing but problems with mine. I mostly blame the dealership, however, being the first year they made them, there are bound to be bugs with it. I guess I got the last of the Protege era and the beginning of the 3 era.
P:lease keep me informed once the build thread is started and good luck finding a car

 

[c7scayman]

Yeah I would love to do it. I usually like hatchbacks, but I don't like the looks of the 3 hatchback. I love the sedan. It would be a good sleeper. Currently drive a 96 Protege and I love it, but I can't exactly put a Mazdaspeed engine in it. Won't fit. The Mazda 3 sedan is the closest car to it in handling, feel, side profile shape. But I can't afford to buy a working Mazda 3 AND make this project happen.