Greetings,

I'm new here and was hoping I could get some advice. I've had a 98' subaru outback, automatic, for the last 6 years and am ready for a change. After much research I'm dead set on a Mazda 3 hatchback, and would prefer a manual, as it seems like fun and, like I said, a nice change. (I just learned how to drive a manual on my gf's car last week to prepare, so I'm a beginner).

After a lot of searching I've come across two good options on craigslist. One here is a 2005 manual sport, 55,000 miles. Pretty standard.

2005 MAZDA 3

The other is this 2007 sport. Newer, more expensive, more miles and some mods on it.

2007 Mazda3 Mazda 3 2.3 Hatchback 5 Speed - QUICK!


both of these seem like pretty good deals, right on or below blue book value (not even factoring in the mods). Especially when most out there are well over kbb.


Now, I must admit my knowledge of cars in general is low, especially regarding mods. It would be fun to have some more zoom, but what I have heard is that with mods, if not done perfectly, you are potentially compromising the car's lifespan.


So my question is- which one would you go for if you were me? The 2005 looks straight forward, low miles, probably pretty reliable and a good buy. The 2007 seems like a great buy and could potentially be a lot of fun to drive, but my hesitation is that I don't know what I'm getting myself into as a total noob.

Also, I should add that I don't want to spend over 11k. I'm almost thinking if I can talk the 2005 guy down I can use it as sort of a inexpensive test, save some dough, sell it and invest in a newer model (skyactive would be nice) depending on how I feel about the car, the transmission, trim, etc.



Your help is much appreciated!

Best,
Zak

 

2005 Pre-facelift.
2007 Should be facelift.

Both 5 speed manuals, neither is any better than the other.

Price reflects the age difference.