2003 Mazda SPEED Protege reviews and
buying guide.
2003
Mazda SPEED Protege resources:
2003 Mazda SPEED Protege
Not all Proteges are created equal. On the original
and traditional Protege compact sedan line, Mazda has
built two very different cars. The Protege 5 Wagon/hatchback,
a unique crossover vehicle for one set of consumer demands
and the MAZDASPEED Protege, a sport compact sedan which
has more power and better handling than any previous
Protege built.
This car was designed to appeal to the hot-rod lovers
out there with many features as standard equipment that
owners are usually required to purchase as expensive
aftermarket add-ons. Sport style details include low-profile
Bridgestone tires, rear spoiler and fog lights. However,
this model of Protege is not just about looks. The on-board
mechanical innovation means that this little sedan will
rocket through turns with exceptional athletic ability.
Under the Hood
The Garrett T25 Ball Bearing turbo-charged 170 hp 2.0-liter
16-valve DOHC in-Line 4-cyl engine is capable of 170hp
at 6000rpm and 160lb-ft of torque at 3500 rpm. Inter-cooled
by an aluminum air-to-air heat exchanger and controlled
by a 5-speed manual transmission it is a high-energy
dynamo with quick response and exquisite control. However,
fuel efficiency is very high and the economical result
is 24/30 mpg (city/hwy).
Meanwhile, a limited-slip differential, a larger front
stabilizer bar than last year, tuned dampers and a Euro-spec
performance 4-wheel antilock disk brake package all
add to this sport compact's ability to hug the road,
make turns without roll or wobble and stop when needed.
Considering the power capability these mechanical enhancements
are especially important. Naturally, dual-front airbags
are standard.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
This model represents the top-of-the-line for the Protege.
Interior features match that of the up-level Protege
ES but even more is added on. For example, the Mazda
MP3 appearance package, introduced last year, is in
place on this model. It comes complete with a Kenwood
AM/FM/CD/MP3 player and a 450-watt stereo. Also added
to ES is the leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Standard features at the ES level include air conditioning,
cruise control and power windows, mirrors, door locks
and steering along with the solid assortment of other
amenities one would expect from a high trim level. Optional
add-ons include leather upholstery and a power sunroof.
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