Originally posted by "Levi"
The Mazda Speed Mp3 owns all. Nothing comes close to it in handling for the price, and major HP is only a intercooler and boost controller away
I agree on the handling.
However everything I read so far says a Mazda speed protege is no more than MP3 with a bolt on turbo to keep costs down, i.e. stock NA block. With only 170hp stock, and only the standard NA enternals, it will probably take more than a intercooler and boost controller to make some serious HP (at least for a sustained period of time).
Cars like the Evo, WRX, and SRT-4 have turbo engines specifically put together and designed for forced induction.
I think the main battle is going to be between the Evo, WRX, and SRT-4. This new sport compact market is starting to focus more on forced induction. IMHO any manufacturer that wants to stay competitive in this segment needs to take the forced induction route.
I also agree with what Mr Self Destruct stated.