The car idles roughly, very especially with the AC on. I get a harsh vibration every once in a while when I put the car in reverse, right before it catches. It is a noisy engine though, but still quieter than the 1.6 DX I traded in on it.
Also, the power is not all that either. There could be more. When I load the car up with 4 people and/or turn the AC on (which kills a LOT of the power and it's very noticeable), I wish I had bought a V-6 car instead of another 4.
The weather looks awesome for the East Coast this weekend! Not sure about the rest of the country? Nonetheless, it should be pretty warm everywhere in North America!
How about some reports on the Mazda Protege Owners Road Trips this weekend? Come on folks "lower the windows & have some fun"! This discussion is getting a little DRY. We got a lot of new 2001 PRO owners, some newbie PRO5 owners and some 1999/2000 regulars at this discussion. Well everyone can't be sitting at home trying to figure out were the oil filter is located or how to remove the roof rack from our new PRO5's!
We purchased our Mazda Protege's to DRIVE the darn things. At the end of the day, we all joined (or are thinking of joining) an exclusive group; MAZDA PROTEGE OWNERS!!!! We are a high energy, discriminating group of people or.... we would have taken the easy way out and purchased a Corolla or Civic!
Now, lets fire up this discussion with a little panache! Post your weekend over-the-road events, were did you go, what did you see and do? You own a great road car, lets be seen this weekend in our Protege's! I'm gonna give mine both a quick wash and dry, look out baby; ZOOM ZOOM ZOOM! Simply put, "special people drive special cars", IMHO!
Hey, been lurking here for fun. You guys have a lot of spirit! One of my all time favorite cars was my '85 RX-7 GS - no power nuthin', but a fantastic car! I don't like most of what Mazda makes, but the Protoge is exceptional in it's class, and I really like the new 5-door (I like the roof rack)! I think the Tribute is also tops in class. Enjoy your rides, girls and boys!
I change my oil when the color gets too dark (this turns out to be between 5k and 7.5k miles). Yeah, you can change synthetic oil only every other filter, but it's messy when the oil spills out the filter mount. I drain and replace the oil every time. Again, get the larger-capacity filter (part #???). I ordered a bunch of oil filters, and they all turned out to be the small one (about half the size of the one the dealer's service department uses).
The oil filter is inconveniently located on the rear of the engine block. In the 1.6L engine, you can get to this from the top of the engine bay. On the 1.8 and 2.0, there doesn't appear to be enough room to wiggle your arm to get to the filter. I guess you'll have to use ramps. That is one nice thing about the Corolla: its oil filter is under the engine, just behind the front of the chassis. It's easy to get to, but I wonder about how well it's protected from road debris.
I travel all local roads to/from work. There is one stretch that dips and bobs and curves at the same time. Much fine to drive at 45mph while leaving lesser vehicles and drivers behind, including all the slammed and hopped Civics and pretender-sport-Corollas. It always puts a smile on my face.
In Hawaii, we have a three day weekend (Monday is Kamehameha Day to honor King Kamehameha who united the islands) so I will spend as much time with the Protege as possible, or until the wife says to come in (only kidding). Only 670 miles so far but it has been very enjoyable and fun to drive. I also notice the slight vibration when shifting into reverse (auto models) but I dont mind.
Before everyone heads into the weekend, where do you folks put your "zoom-zoom" sticker? This was given to all who bought a 2001 Mazda, but I haven't found a place for it and probably never will since I don't care for stickers.
One of my temp assistants here at work has a riced-out 1995 del Sol. We were talking about cars the other day, and I told him I had a new Protege ES 2.0. He wanted to see and drive it (he can look all he wants, but he is NOT driving my baby!). Anyway, I showed him the car. Then after he got done almost drooling over it in the parking lot, I told him the car was completely factory. He said, "NO WAY! With rims and interior pieces like that? It's all factory?". I said, "yep, right off the showroom floor just like you see it". He was amazed.
Then came time to leave work. He zoomed out of the lot in his little big-tailpipe del Sol, then I zoomed out in MY car. I passed him like a freight car passing a hobo. Needless to say, he now wants to get a Protege ES 2.0.
Since my car is in the shop for an oil change and brake check as we speak, I am driving my roommate's 2000 Neon today. It's a shame, because on Friday afternoons (especially warm ones like this one), I usually crank up the radio, lower all 4 windows, and go hunt down Civics. Just kidding. Today, instead of ZOOM ZOOM, it will be creak, crack. Ugh. Can't wait to get my baby back!
Also, the shop thinks my rotors are warped at only 7550 miles. I hope not, because I really don't wanna think I am going to have trouble with this Protege. We will see I guess.
No manufacturer claims that synth will last longer than dino oil. Check the ads and the packages. If they aren't plastering the world with those claims than I highly doubt it does. It's probably a myth. Check and see what the claims are on the package. That will give you a better idea of the benefits of synth. I've found that the only benefit of synth is that it remains the same viscosity at a wider range of temperatures. That means better hot and cold starts, better protection at extreme temps. Some manufacturers claim to have anti-corrosive additives exclusive to their systhetics too. I use valvoline durablend durring moderate temperature driving. (it performs well). When the winter comes around I switch to synthetic to help protect me from the cold starts.
Just washed my Pro and I plan on cruising the Lake Minnetonka area and eventually checking out the bars for some responsible drinking enjoyment. As far as manufacturers claiming that synthetic lasts longer, Amsoil does. And those bigger oil filters, they may fit, but are they the right filter (with the right anti-drainback valve)? I know that GM makes big and small versions of their filters, some of them are compatible, and some are not and will actually damage the engine if you switch them. About the 1.8L vs. the 2.0L, I actually prefer an engine to have its power where you need it, down low. I owned an integra and it was gutless compared to the protoge 2.0L down low, but if you drove it like you stole it, it really flew. I don't like to drive the cars that I own like I stole them however. It would be great if the Protoge's 2.0L had it all (decent punch in the low RPMs and a good kick in the high RPMs) but find me a car with both for around $15K that looks good and I would have bought it.
Read edmund's article on it. Here is an little piece of it: "Generally, synthetics can be used for two to three times the life of petroleum oils. EXTENDED DRAIN INTERVALS help offset the cost difference between synthetic and petroleum oils" The article is in the ownership section and is titled: "Dino Juice, what you get when you squeeze a million years of dinosaurs together" Also, check this link out http://www.uti.com/~hoser/4strokeoil.htm
I am almost afraid to drive it. It is so light and athletic and responsive that you need to concentrate while driving. It is a blast to open it up on the turnpike however but i gotta be careful
They eat up the miles fast! You get where you are going too soon. On a return trip from Durham to Greensboro I almost drove on to the next city just for the heck of it, but then remembered construction on I-85 slowing traffic to 20mph. Yuck!
jstanderfer, vocus, chico: Remember when Mazda made a small V-6 for a hatchback in the 80's? I forget the car model, but Mazda should have developed that engine more for use in today's Protegé. Maybe with 145hp and a 155lbsft of torque!
Mazda made the small V6 for the MX3. It was a DOHC 1.8L V6, the smallest V6 ever put into production in the United States. It was based off of the 2.5L unit found in the MX6, 626, and Ford Probe GT. Although it was quite smooth, it was short on torque and actually feels weaker than the 2.0L four found in some of our Protoges. It would be very difficult to get 155 lbs-ft of torque out a 1.8L without forced induction because torque has a direct relationship with displacement. The 2.5L V6 was the same size as the 1.8L as far as external physical dimensions and would be a really sweet motor for the Protoge.
Fowler3... I believe that was the "Pocket Rocket" MX3 V6 -- 2 door hatchback last sold in the 1995 model year; It looked like a larger Honda CRX.
No matter how fast I take freeway offramp/onramp curves, I cannot make my '01ES tires squeal one bit!!! My coffee commuter mug even stays level during those sharp curves -- most of the time.... hehehe ... By the way I use a small pillow (like the "complimentary" airplane seat ones) as a lower lumbar support in my Protege. I used a full-sized pillow, cut it in half, and sewed-up the open side. PERFECT support for your lower back in our "near" luxury, little cars. I always got lower back pains in my '88 323, '95 ES, and now my '01 ES if I didn't use some sort of lower seat back cusion.
Browning Mazda in Cerritos, CA has an EXCELLENT service dept. Beach Mazda in Huntington Beach, CA (Orange County) so far is SATISFACTORY (mis-diagnosed a minor exhaust issue) so far.
That’s what I meant, increase the displacement, but I didn’t know about the current V-6 being about the same size. The 1.8L V-6 had small cylinders about the size of Pablem (spelling) jars. A real baby V-6.
I’m happy with the 2.0L, but would like more low-end boost when I kick it down. Those Bridgestones make more noise than the engine, especially on coarse pavement. Haven’t tried high rpm's yet when stepping down on it.
Come to think of it, a small V-8 would be smoother than a v -6. I had a ’61 Buick Skylark with a small aluminum V-8, one of the best cars I ever owned. It was 155hp. I think GM still makes that engine in Brazil, or use to. Oh oh, giving away my age there...By the way, I still have the brochure on that car, and an Avanti I almost bought.
Of course the 1.8L V6 was less powerful than the 2.0L 4. The 1.8L V6 was STILL just 1.8L no matter how you divide up the number of cylinders. In theory, a V6 of the same displacement as a 4cyl will have a lower output (all other things being equal) because of more moving parts which equates to slightly more friction. This is the reason you don't see any small V6s lower than about 2.5L.
The Chrysler 150hp six engines used in minivans are actually less powerful than an inline 4 because the additional hp gain is offset by the weight and moving parts of the two additonal cylinders and extended engine block.
What is needed is a happy medium engine that provides the torque we want without the dead weight.
Protegé owners who live in the northern climes should appreciate the Pro’s cast iron block for its ability to keep the coolent hot in winter during short stops. Aluminum block engines, such as Hondas, cool down quickly and the driver has to wait for the coolent to heat up again.
That V8 buick engine that you used to own is still in production. Rover bought that engine from GM and uses it in Range Rovers today, although they have significantly updated it. People with those MX3s knew that too (that it was less powerful than a similiar 1.8L I-4 because of frictional pumping losses). Thats why you will see an MX3 with the 2.5L conversion on occasion (you wouldn't be able to tell from looking at the engine, but you would feel it in the seat of your pants). With that engine in the MX3, it becomes a screamer. Check this site out if you want to read more about it: http://www.mx-3.com/swap/ If Mazda would have put that engine in the Protoge, it would be an even sweeter car, but it also would have cost a lot more money.
Please do not copy and paste articles from other sources here - that is against the copyright portion of your Terms of Use.
As long as you are not violating any Terms of Service of the host site, you are certainly free to post links to interesting articles - and you can do some paraphrasing if you'd like. You just cannot directly copy and paste text from other websites - Town Hall does not allow our material to be copied to other websites, and we therefore cannot allow other website material to be copied here.
Also, it is not okay to directly copy text from printed sources such as magazines or the like.
I've had to remove a couple of posts - thanks for your understanding.
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You mentioned the squeal of you Bridgestones. Are those aftermarket tires? I have Dunlops. BTW one of the very fews knocks against the Pro (in some reviews) is the engine noise at high speeds. I have not found evidence of this. The car is not as quiet as a caddy for instance, but certainly not unacceptably loud. So to that end i really havent found any flaws. What i also really like is that i see so few of them on the road it makes me feel special. I see 50 civics and corollas for every Pro that goes by. I cannot get over how much i love this car and i only have 600+ miles on it. Just some thoughts for now.
I'm considering buying a 1994 Mazda Protege LX 5 speed with a 1.8 DOHC engine. My 1990 Mazda Protege SE has a 1.8 SOHC engine, which has been a good engine. The car is still running at 208,000+ miles. Before I buy the 1994, I'd like to know if the 1.8 DOHC is as good as the single cam? Any advice would be appreciated.
If you're ever in the area, the drive on I-80 up to Lake Tahoe is both scenic and fun (lots of twisties up in the mountains), unless you get stuck behind a tractor-trailer.
Also, the drive on I-5 down to Santa Cruz is beautiful.
And the drive down to Reno isn't bad either (although I wasn't very impressed by the city...visiting in-laws).
The roads to and within Yosemite National Park are fun (curvy, mostly banked correctly and with wide shoulders, except for when you're ascending the side of a mountain), but you'll likely be too distracted by the scenery to really drive them.
Also, there are nice drives in the park off the north end of the Golden Gate Bridge. I forget the name of the park, but there used to be old forts up there that are now nature preserves.
And, of course, the drive to Half-Moon Bay is also hilly and curvy. Watch for dirt patches after wet patches though. When my college roommate was driving me in his Miata, we almost went off the side of the road backwards. The fall would've been OK, but the landing would definitely have hurt. Good thing for the chicken-wire fence they put up before the cliffside. Actually, we'd already lost enough speed before we hit the fence. Small scratches on the paint and slightly elevated heartbeats were all the damage that resulted. Of course, my wife now wants me to avoid riding with him or his wife (also a very good friend from school).
Gosh, makes me want to move out there. Too bad about the power shortages though. There aren't too many roads like those out here in SW Ohio. A few near the Miami River and in Northern Kentucky, but I hear cars sometimes get shot at in KY.
He had a very nice column on the 2001/2002 Protege. He's liked the Protege for several years, favoring it over its competitors and some larger, more-expensive cars. In fact, he seems to favor the type of vehicle Mazda makes (usually practical, with good handling and excellent ergonomics, all for a reasonable price), unlike the reviewer for USA Today. He must've spilled hot coffee on himself while figuring out how to work the cupholder when he reviewed the Protege. I expect Alan will want to review the MP3 and P5 soon.
His review was printed in the Cincinnati Enquirer on June 3. However, I haven't yet seen it posted to their on-line version.
BTW, excellent review on Motorweek too. You should see it go through their handling test: very sure-footed and quick. I'm surprised they didn't broadcast a recording of their emergency lane-change test. I even set my VCR to SP to get the best-quality recording of it I could (usually set to SLP).
My Sand Mica 99 Protege LX now has almost 19K on the odometer now, still going strong! No problems to report. Anyone here in the Panama City area w/ a 01 LX 2.0 in silver? I see you driving everywhere! I parked next to you once at Subway down near Hickory Lanes bowling.
Oil Changes: I've had synthetic in my car since 15K, the engine seems to run a tad smoother now. Just to be on the safe side, I'm going to be changing every 3K even though I have synthetic. I just paid $49 for an oil change at Buzz Leonard Mazda for my 18K oil change a couple weeks ago, anyone else think that's a bit too expensive?
Unfortunately, Motorweek is broadcast on Speedvision where I live and I don't have Speedvision. I would have loved to see it though. Also, I tried to post a little bit of an article from Automobile, but it got erased. I don't know why, because I have done it before with other articles and they didn't get erased. It was an article about the Ford Focus and one of the writers mentioned that he liked the Protoge better, especially the ES version. They said it was similiar in price to the Focus, but it came with Japanese quality and reliability at no extra cost. They also said that it was a car that begged to be driven "hard and fast". $49 is a decent price for a synthetic oil change, I have seen them for $70. Anyways, has anyone read the owner's manual about oil changes? It says that you need a special tool to install the new oil filter. I used my hand and it worked fine. I wonder why they refer to Mazda technicians' hands as "special tools"?
I took a good look a the P5 this weekend. It really is a station wagon - with no cargo area. When they say they are targeting college educated buyers in their early 30's, they must mean new mothers in their early 30's. Although there is not much room in the trunk area for a stroller.
I do like the headlights a lot. I'm wondering if they would fit the sedan models? They look to be the same size and shape.
I also think the interior is classy.
The local dealers got a ton of Proteges in this weekend. They finally have some black, but ESs only come with automatics. (I could get a ES 5 sp in Sand Mica.) Black 5 speeds are only on the LX 2.0 models. Is there a big difference in suspension and handling of the LX 2.0 compared to the ES?
I didn't mean the Bridgestone tires squeal, I meant there is road noise from rough-surfaced pavement some times. Some old pavement has a grainy surface which causes a roaring noise.
The engine is as quiet as any I have had. I don't mind the engine sound at all, rather like it in fact.
A message I posted earlier was removed. =P You will find interesting information about Mazda's plans and new models on this web site.
djmax the more you drive it the more you will love it. The Protegé is one of those cars which gets better and better every day you are behind the wheel. I hope Mazda doesn't change it too much for 2002 and beyond.
I got my oil changed for the second time, at 7550 miles, in my 2001 Protege ES. I decided to go synthetic. Boy, what a difference! I noticed, the very first time I started it, the engine ran alot smoother than without it. And the oil change was only $37 from Goodyear (I have a discount card). I got the brakes checked while there too, and the rotors are warped. I have to make an appointment with the dealer to have the brakes replaced in a couple weeks. Really disappointed that my car has been in the shop 3 times already, and it's not even 4 months old yet. I hope this trend changes, or I might be back at the dealership trading long before I expected.
From what I've read of your posts you like to run the guts out of it. Didn't you mention revving up to 4k before letting out the clutch? Or that may have been somebody else, if so sorry.
Please do tell me what revving a car to 4000 rpm has to do with the brakes wearing out at 7500 miles. Is there any relation whatsoever??
The problems I have had were the alignment and the driver's seat squeaking (and, of course, the rotors now). The alignment was reset 2 times, and still was off. But now with the tires rotated, it's fine. Maybe the one tire was wearing unevenly. We will see I guess. The driver's seat service person pretty much refused to drive the car with me, after promising me he would. (I am going to go to another dealer next time.) And now the rotors. I guess cars sometimes have their little problems, but it still makes me a little mad that I need brakes at only 7550 miles. I never had problems like this with the DX, and I drove it ALOT harder than I do the ES (because of the DX's lack of power).
Reminder: They are selling a set of wheel locks on Ebay for only $5. They say "for 1999 Proteges", but I e-mailed and asked and the person said they would fit 2001s too. Something to think about to protect your investment.
Yes the ES has different dampers and sway bars not to mention the rear disc brakes. The ES also uses a five lug hub which is a stronger upgrade to the 4 lug hub on the others.
I forgot to mention, I saw another Protege ES on the road on Saturday afternoon. It was a dark green ES Premium Pkg., but without the body colored mirrors.
I would love to be able to retrofit the ES with the P5's taillamps and front bumper. The front bumper I know I can do via www.corksport.com, but I don't know if the taillamps would work or not. Any thoughts (MaltB)?
I read somewhere that the Protege engine will go up to 2.3L with the redesign around 2004 or so. Why can't they bump it now, but instead add the Millenia's V-6? Wouldn't that be a SWEET ride?!?
Only pick the ES over the LX if you like the interior trim pieces. But, the larger tires, firmer suspension, and 4-wheel disc brakes have their benefits too. Drive both and see what piques your interest more.
No - I know the ES comes in a 5 speed, I just have not been able to find a 5sp in the color I want (not too keen on the Sand Mica - that is the only color of ES 5 speeds on the lots at 3 local Mazda dealers.) I have always wanted my next car to be a 5 speed, which is why I was holding out for a 5 speed ES, but I need to get a car . . . soon.
I do like the interior of the ES much better than the LX2.0 - but now with the free moonroof and alloy wheels, the differences really just come down to suspension and handling (and the interior colors.)
I swear the alloy wheels they are putting on the LX2.0s are the same ones that are on the 1999-2000 ESs.
Anyway - I guess it's just one of those cases where one can't get everything!
Although . . . I could get an ES auto and then save for a 6 speed Porsche!
Spent the awesome weekend driving around Lancaster PA., enjoying a rare Friday/Saturday off and the truly terrific weather! The only downer, my beloved Philly 76ers got beat Friday and Sunday?
Took my "twins" in for oil changes and Penna. State Inspections, this morning. I have all my work completed at the dealer, Lancaster Toyota Mazda, were we purchased our 2000 PRO-ES's. BTW, both cars have aprox. 23,000 miles on them and not ONE problem, so far!!! I did have my first "wear & tear" replacement, a wiper blade replacement for one of the cars. Not to bad?
While I waited for the "twins", a car hauler full of Mazda Products showed up. I watched the vehicles get unloaded. Included in the load were three PRO-5 Sports Wagons. All base, except for floor mats and auto trannys. One silver and two red. I talked to the sales guy who sold me, my 2000 Proteges and he told me; they received their 1st and only PRO-5, last week and it sold for MSRP plus $370.00 for pin striping and paint sealant with in 48 hours of delivery (it was not pre-sold)! Lol, $370.00 for sealant and pin striping! Nonetheless, the two red PRO-5 delivered today, had me thinking about a trade/buy switch out, hehe!!! However, I would need to have the loaded PRO-5's to be truly happy. Once you own a Protege with a moon roof you can't go back, IMHO. Hey, I can dream can't I?
Does anyone here know if the MP3 has a sunroof, it is not listed in the standard features and it does not show up in options either. I know the in the ES model it is included for no charge. HELP!!!
I thought I could live with the MP3 being so under horse powered, but I cant live without a roof and no abs. What is Mazda thinking. Well lets make a great looking slow [non-permissible content removed] car that is also unsafe. Well I guess its back to the RSX, SE-R, or the MB coupe. Thank you mazda for making my new car buying decision easier>>>>>>
I was reading about the MP3 (hey, my 95 Pro DX is getting old, you know!) and was disappointed at the lack of these very same options.
They finally have a chance to compete with the riced Civics without giving their car a 'rice'-d look, great handling - and they put in a puny engine, no side air bags and no ABS? Does ABS somehow detract from performance? I can't imagine how!
Sadly, I've eliminated the MP3 from my future new-car plans (about 3-6 months). And the Pro ES is out too - want a little more in my next car.
Any ideas or suggestions for a soon-to-be ex-Protege owner? A used Beemer 3 series, late 90s, perhaps?
-ashu
ps: Not a fan of Nissans, think the Integra (current) handles shoddily and is dated in design and DEFINITELY can't afford an MB coupe :-) (with referece to trae's current options!)
Hi. Just got a Pro ES, AT, Premium Pkg in light sandalwood metallic. I've been pouring over this site for awhile now and have to say you Pro owners are an enthusiastic bunch. Having put on around 700 miles thus far I can sure understand why. I'm mightily impressed. The ES suspension, steering are awesome. Its sad none of the big three can't or won't get it together. This is my first import.
I believe StonGard sells clear urethane skins for the front bumper, hood and fenders. They cut custom-fit kits for some cars (I believe Protege is one of them....their owners seem to love them so). They also make similar kits of thicker material to protect your front lights (and sometimes fog lights).
I use their headlamp assembly kit to protect my headlamps. You can see some dirt accumulated around the edges, but my headlamps are undamaged! Also, after about 2.5 years of use, they have not yellowed or peeled. Worthwhile considering it cost about $40 for the kit (much less than the few hundred to replace one headlamp assembly).
After a few dozen paint chips, I'd wished I'd gotten the general-purpose front-end kit and made my own (they didn't have a custom kit available when I got my Pro...early adopter).
Comments
Also, the power is not all that either. There could be more. When I load the car up with 4 people and/or turn the AC on (which kills a LOT of the power and it's very noticeable), I wish I had bought a V-6 car instead of another 4.
How about some reports on the Mazda Protege Owners Road Trips this weekend? Come on folks "lower the windows & have some fun"! This discussion is getting a little DRY. We got a lot of new 2001 PRO owners, some newbie PRO5 owners and some 1999/2000 regulars at this discussion. Well everyone can't be sitting at home trying to figure out were the oil filter is located or how to remove the roof rack from our new PRO5's!
We purchased our Mazda Protege's to DRIVE the darn things. At the end of the day, we all joined (or are thinking of joining) an exclusive group; MAZDA PROTEGE OWNERS!!!! We are a high energy, discriminating group of people or.... we would have taken the easy way out and purchased a Corolla or Civic!
Now, lets fire up this discussion with a little panache! Post your weekend over-the-road events, were did you go, what did you see and do? You own a great road car, lets be seen this weekend in our Protege's! I'm gonna give mine both a quick wash and dry, look out baby; ZOOM ZOOM ZOOM! Simply put, "special people drive special cars", IMHO!
Respectfully,
Larry
The oil filter is inconveniently located on the rear of the engine block. In the 1.6L engine, you can get to this from the top of the engine bay. On the 1.8 and 2.0, there doesn't appear to be enough room to wiggle your arm to get to the filter. I guess you'll have to use ramps. That is one nice thing about the Corolla: its oil filter is under the engine, just behind the front of the chassis. It's easy to get to, but I wonder about how well it's protected from road debris.
Before everyone heads into the weekend, where do you folks put your "zoom-zoom" sticker? This was given to all who bought a 2001 Mazda, but I haven't found a place for it and probably never will since I don't care for stickers.
Then came time to leave work. He zoomed out of the lot in his little big-tailpipe del Sol, then I zoomed out in MY car. I passed him like a freight car passing a hobo.
Also, the shop thinks my rotors are warped at only 7550 miles. I hope not, because I really don't wanna think I am going to have trouble with this Protege. We will see I guess.
I've found that the only benefit of synth is that it remains the same viscosity at a wider range of temperatures. That means better hot and cold starts, better protection at extreme temps. Some manufacturers claim to have anti-corrosive additives exclusive to their systhetics too.
I use valvoline durablend durring moderate temperature driving. (it performs well). When the winter comes around I switch to synthetic to help protect me from the cold starts.
There is tons of independent data and research that PROVES the benefits of Synth, including extended drain intervals.
jstanderfer, vocus, chico: Remember when Mazda made a small V-6 for a hatchback in the 80's? I forget the car model, but Mazda should have developed that engine more for use in today's Protegé. Maybe with 145hp and a 155lbsft of torque!
fowler3
No matter how fast I take freeway offramp/onramp curves, I cannot make my '01ES tires squeal one bit!!! My coffee commuter mug even stays level during those sharp curves -- most of the time.... hehehe
Browning Mazda in Cerritos, CA has an EXCELLENT service dept. Beach Mazda in Huntington Beach, CA (Orange County) so far is SATISFACTORY (mis-diagnosed a minor exhaust issue) so far.
MARTIN
That’s what I meant, increase the displacement, but I didn’t know about the current V-6 being about the same size. The 1.8L V-6 had small cylinders about the size of Pablem (spelling) jars. A real baby V-6.
I’m happy with the 2.0L, but would like more low-end boost when I kick it down. Those Bridgestones make more noise than the engine, especially on coarse pavement. Haven’t tried high rpm's yet when stepping down on it.
Come to think of it, a small V-8 would be smoother than a v -6. I had a ’61 Buick Skylark with a small aluminum V-8, one of the best cars I ever owned. It was 155hp. I think GM still makes that engine in Brazil, or use to. Oh oh, giving away my age there...By the way, I still have the brochure on that car, and an Avanti I almost bought.
fowler3
"When unusual engines are built, Mazda will build them!"
The Chrysler 150hp six engines used in minivans are actually less powerful than an inline 4 because the additional hp gain is offset by the weight and moving parts of the two additonal cylinders and extended engine block.
What is needed is a happy medium engine that provides the torque we want without the dead weight.
Protegé owners who live in the northern climes should appreciate the Pro’s cast iron block for its ability to keep the coolent hot in winter during short stops. Aluminum block engines, such as Hondas, cool down quickly and the driver has to wait for the coolent to heat up again.
fowler3
As long as you are not violating any Terms of Service of the host site, you are certainly free to post links to interesting articles - and you can do some paraphrasing if you'd like. You just cannot directly copy and paste text from other websites - Town Hall does not allow our material to be copied to other websites, and we therefore cannot allow other website material to be copied here.
Also, it is not okay to directly copy text from printed sources such as magazines or the like.
I've had to remove a couple of posts - thanks for your understanding.
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Also, the drive on I-5 down to Santa Cruz is beautiful.
And the drive down to Reno isn't bad either (although I wasn't very impressed by the city...visiting in-laws).
The roads to and within Yosemite National Park are fun (curvy, mostly banked correctly and with wide shoulders, except for when you're ascending the side of a mountain), but you'll likely be too distracted by the scenery to really drive them.
Also, there are nice drives in the park off the north end of the Golden Gate Bridge. I forget the name of the park, but there used to be old forts up there that are now nature preserves.
And, of course, the drive to Half-Moon Bay is also hilly and curvy. Watch for dirt patches after wet patches though. When my college roommate was driving me in his Miata, we almost went off the side of the road backwards. The fall would've been OK, but the landing would definitely have hurt. Good thing for the chicken-wire fence they put up before the cliffside.
Gosh, makes me want to move out there. Too bad about the power shortages though. There aren't too many roads like those out here in SW Ohio. A few near the Miami River and in Northern Kentucky, but I hear cars sometimes get shot at in KY.
His review was printed in the Cincinnati Enquirer on June 3. However, I haven't yet seen it posted to their on-line version.
BTW, excellent review on Motorweek too. You should see it go through their handling test: very sure-footed and quick. I'm surprised they didn't broadcast a recording of their emergency lane-change test. I even set my VCR to SP to get the best-quality recording of it I could (usually set to SLP).
Oil Changes:
I've had synthetic in my car since 15K, the engine seems to run a tad smoother now. Just to be on the safe side, I'm going to be changing every 3K even though I have synthetic. I just paid $49 for an oil change at Buzz Leonard Mazda for my 18K oil change a couple weeks ago, anyone else think that's a bit too expensive?
I do like the headlights a lot. I'm wondering if they would fit the sedan models? They look to be the same size and shape.
I also think the interior is classy.
The local dealers got a ton of Proteges in this weekend. They finally have some black, but ESs only come with automatics. (I could get a ES 5 sp in Sand Mica.) Black 5 speeds are only on the LX 2.0 models. Is there a big difference in suspension and handling of the LX 2.0 compared to the ES?
Thanks -
The engine is as quiet as any I have had. I don't mind the engine sound at all, rather like it in fact.
A message I posted earlier was removed. =P You will find interesting information about Mazda's plans and new models on this web site.
http://www.veh-tech.net/pages/dailynews/backnumbercompany2001.html
Start with May and go back to January.
djmax the more you drive it the more you will love it. The Protegé is one of those cars which gets better and better every day you are behind the wheel. I hope Mazda doesn't change it too much for 2002 and beyond.
fowler3
fowler3
Any price changes?
Any changes? colors,cosmetic,options, etc...
The problems I have had were the alignment and the driver's seat squeaking (and, of course, the rotors now). The alignment was reset 2 times, and still was off. But now with the tires rotated, it's fine. Maybe the one tire was wearing unevenly. We will see I guess. The driver's seat service person pretty much refused to drive the car with me, after promising me he would. (I am going to go to another dealer next time.) And now the rotors. I guess cars sometimes have their little problems, but it still makes me a little mad that I need brakes at only 7550 miles. I never had problems like this with the DX, and I drove it ALOT harder than I do the ES (because of the DX's lack of power).
Reminder: They are selling a set of wheel locks on Ebay for only $5. They say "for 1999 Proteges", but I e-mailed and asked and the person said they would fit 2001s too. Something to think about to protect your investment.
I would love to be able to retrofit the ES with the P5's taillamps and front bumper. The front bumper I know I can do via www.corksport.com, but I don't know if the taillamps would work or not. Any thoughts (MaltB)?
I read somewhere that the Protege engine will go up to 2.3L with the redesign around 2004 or so. Why can't they bump it now, but instead add the Millenia's V-6? Wouldn't that be a SWEET ride?!?
I do like the interior of the ES much better than the LX2.0 - but now with the free moonroof and alloy wheels, the differences really just come down to suspension and handling (and the interior colors.)
I swear the alloy wheels they are putting on the LX2.0s are the same ones that are on the 1999-2000 ESs.
Anyway - I guess it's just one of those cases where one can't get everything!
Although . . . I could get an ES auto and then save for a 6 speed Porsche!
Took my "twins" in for oil changes and Penna. State Inspections, this morning. I have all my work completed at the dealer, Lancaster Toyota Mazda, were we purchased our 2000 PRO-ES's. BTW, both cars have aprox. 23,000 miles on them and not ONE problem, so far!!! I did have my first "wear & tear" replacement, a wiper blade replacement for one of the cars. Not to bad?
While I waited for the "twins", a car hauler full of Mazda Products showed up. I watched the vehicles get unloaded. Included in the load were three PRO-5 Sports Wagons. All base, except for floor mats and auto trannys. One silver and two red. I talked to the sales guy who sold me, my 2000 Proteges and he told me; they received their 1st and only PRO-5, last week and it sold for MSRP plus $370.00 for pin striping and paint sealant with in 48 hours of delivery (it was not pre-sold)! Lol, $370.00 for sealant and pin striping!
Nonetheless, the two red PRO-5 delivered today, had me thinking about a trade/buy switch out, hehe!!! However, I would need to have the loaded PRO-5's to be truly happy. Once you own a Protege with a moon roof you can't go back, IMHO. Hey, I can dream can't I?
Respectfully,
Larry
I was reading about the MP3 (hey, my 95 Pro DX is getting old, you know!) and was disappointed at the lack of these very same options.
They finally have a chance to compete with the riced Civics without giving their car a 'rice'-d look, great handling - and they put in a puny engine, no side air bags and no ABS? Does ABS somehow detract from performance? I can't imagine how!
Sadly, I've eliminated the MP3 from my future new-car plans (about 3-6 months). And the Pro ES is out too - want a little more in my next car.
Any ideas or suggestions for a soon-to-be ex-Protege owner? A used Beemer 3 series, late 90s, perhaps?
-ashu
ps: Not a fan of Nissans, think the Integra (current) handles shoddily and is dated in design and DEFINITELY can't afford an MB coupe :-) (with referece to trae's current options!)
I use their headlamp assembly kit to protect my headlamps. You can see some dirt accumulated around the edges, but my headlamps are undamaged! Also, after about 2.5 years of use, they have not yellowed or peeled. Worthwhile considering it cost about $40 for the kit (much less than the few hundred to replace one headlamp assembly).
After a few dozen paint chips, I'd wished I'd gotten the general-purpose front-end kit and made my own (they didn't have a custom kit available when I got my Pro...early adopter).