I'd worry about the legendary Mazda crankwalk issue with that car. Honestly, I don't think there is much more power left in that motor than Mazdaspeed is getting out of it already. For less money, one could get a n/a SVT Focus and have the same power. Buy your best mechanic buddy a 12 pack and install a JRSC (Eaton m62 supercharger kit) and see how fast she goes. You'd still be under the 24k pricetags most dealers charge (sticker is 22). Or the new VW GTi 1.8t. Tough motor that is very mod friendly.

I'd like to see if the rumors will come true that Honda will be introducing the new Civic Si with the RSX Type S motor in it. Acura of America approved the project, so at least that is a start (ie Acura of America is not worried that the 200hp Si (R?) will not cut into the sales of the RSX Type S which will share the same motor).