I'm in the market for a small compact sedan. My current choices are either the 2008 Lancer or the Mazda Speed 3. I want whichever car that has the most aftermarket upgrade parts (or will have) in the near future. In other words, which car do you think will I be able to customize more? Will I be able to get the Lancer to 300 hp with turbo and internal upgrades?

 

Man, if you want to do that to a Lancer, your best buy is to get the Speed3 since its already turbo'd.
I don't think theres even a turbo kit available for the 2008 yet, and the aftermarket probally won't pick up on it for another year or so.
Just go with the Speed3, its a hell of a car.

 

I agree probablyInfew monthsthey would come out with mods for the newlancers but mazda is already turbo car people are going to want make it faster and wont be hard since internals are designed to withstand the abuse. But do you really want a Ford??(mazda =ford)They depreciate in value very rapidly if I where you I would really look into something else

 

Theres so many differences in ford/mazda.
They dont do much platform sharing except on the escape/tribute.
The 3 is a car nuilt with some ford parts, but not many.
The speed3 is remarkable.
And Fords really turning around, so don't hate on em'.
I was a ford tech for 3 years.
They're not as bad as everyone says.
I drove a 2005 F-150 for a year or so.

 

I guess I'll go with the Mazda Speed 3 then, I drive a Ford already so I know most of the engine parts of my Explorer.

 

JoshewuhhI agree and dissagree Mazda motors and Ford dont share many things not as closely as Honda and Acura. But its still a Ford at heart, I worked on Fords Windstars, Taurus and ranger also F-150 They are pain in the *** to work on ive never had short times when doing even smallest work for instance changing the air filter on for windstar takes about 7-10 mins done right with out rushing when it should be 5 min or less. I always charged what I like to call Domestic car Fee so that i could buy me and advil later.