I have a 2005 mazda 3. Body is getting in pretty bad shape. Thinking of finding a cheap parts car that has a blown engine or something and just do a swap. My question is which years are compatible? I have the 2.3 with a manual transmission. Would I be able to swap with any 04 - 09. I read the faq and it said there was some differences, between years, but didn't really list anything motor and transmission wise.

 

Given how frequently the reports of failed 2.3 liter motors are showing up, I'm thinking you might want to pull your motor, sell it, and use the proceeds for another car. Apparently running 2.3s are getting pretty rare, and as such, their price on the open market, just for the motor, is over $1,000.

 

That would be nice, but I doubt I would get that out of it. Looks like they are going for around 1200 or so on Ebay and they look to be in probably better shape that what mine is in.