A Split Second AFC (air fuel controller) was installed. Although this set-up negatively affects cold start-ups, it adds plenty of power when the engine is warm. The stock intake manifold was replaced with a ported manifold for better performance. The standard intercooler was changed to a much larger front mounted Corksport model along with a Corksport cold air intake. The system uses a MagnaFlow muffler for increased power. The exhaust piping was increased to 2.5 inches resulting in a much less restricted flow. The Mazdaspeed Protégé came with many features unique to this model over the base Protégé models: A 5-speed transmission was standard and this vehicle benefits from a newly added performance clutch. Although the improved specs are not known, it is obvious from driving this vehicle that a tremendous improvement is noted over the stock Mazdaspeed.

of torque at 3,500 RPMs, the enthusiast knew that a larger intercooler and a less restricted exhaust would increase these numbers and he was proven to be correct. While the stock Mazdaspeed produced 170 horsepower at 6,000 RPMs with 160 lb.-ft. The mechanical expertise shown by this aficionado is well demonstrated with this project. The automobile was never raced, or driven hard for that matter, but the results of a few changes made this car far superior to the stock Mazdaspeed models. The owner was a true enthusiast who purchased the vehicle in stock condition and addressed the few concerns that other Mazdaspeed owners commented on to make this car even better. 2003 Mazda MAZDASPEED Protege It was only in 2003 that Mazda produced the Protégé Mazdaspeed model and this vehicle is, we are sure, the most outstanding example of this fine automobile.

Mazda protege 5