2003 Dodge SRT-4

"I remember in 2000 reading an article on Dodge bringing a supercharged Neon to the market. At the time I owned a first-generation Neon, and was very satisfied, but I knew I had to get it. I waited to hear more of this car but nothing, so I forgot about it. Finally in 2002 I read about Dodge unveiling of the turbocharged SRT-4. All I could do was hope that it was as good as they made it out to be. Dodge, you have made me proud to own one. The design may not be all new, but it turns a lot of heads. I am constantly being complimented on my car, and respected by street racers. When I am driving my car all that comes to mind is sweeeet! The Dodge SRT-4 rocks!!!!!" — Srt-4 lIFE, June 22, 2003

"The sole point of buying this car was to get the fastest stock vehicle for my money (limit $30,000). The looking started a couple of years ago, and covered the RSX, RSX Type-S, WRX, WRX STi and the new Z. With zero to 60 from 5.4 to 5.9, and 14-second quarter-mile at 102, the SRT-4 blew everything else away in its price range ($19,500), let alone $10,000 above. Warning: this car cruises at 100 mph like it was 60, and doesn't even strain at 140. Rock on, Dodge!" — celsius, June 28, 2003

"This car is designed for me, Willow Springs, street fun, rallies. Best car up to $35K!! I love the race seats — especially on high-speed continuous turns. I love the brakes, stops absolutely straight. I love the power to weight (the 'real' power-to-weight ratio). I love the looks, and the attention from everyone. I love the four-door race car!!" — mt2, June 13, 2003

2003 Mazdaspeed Protegé

"I purchased my Mazdaspeed less than a week ago, and while I'm still definitely in the honeymoon phase, I can say without a doubt this car is the best driving experience available under $30,000. It's a steal at $20,000, and with the limited production, it's not going to be the depreciation nightmare most economy cars are. If you can find one, drive it; compare what you get, and you'll return to the Mazda dealership without a doubt in your mind about your decision." — Maxwell House, Feb. 26, 2003

"The individual pieces of this vehicle are not overwhelming, but when put together, this vehicle is incredible to drive. The steering feel, and complete balance and composure through the twisties, brings the biggest grin on my face; and what a deal. At a bit over $20K this car kicks ass. I'll leave an RSX, 330i, IS 300, in my dust on straits, and lose an SRT-4, and WRX behind in the twisties. I only wish I didn't live so close to some of the best driving roads in the country…my front tires are going quickly." — llan, July 1, 2003

"Owned my MSP for roughly three weeks, and it is an absolute blast to drive. It is quicker than most cars excluding SRT-4, WRX, EVO, etc. but it has handled every corner I have thrown at it with ease so far. No sliding, screeching or unpredicted behavior. This is a car for the person who wants to go fast everywhere, not just light to light. I would recommend the SRT-4 if you just want 0-60 at the same price." — VTUHwang, June 18, 2003

Ford SVT Focus

"Fun for under $20K. It's a great package for the price. Handling and stopping are tops on my list. It's not a drag car, but the six-speed Getrag transmission is geared for backcountry roads with lots of curves. It's a super everyday driver with good performance for a 2.0-liter engine with 170 hp. SVT did a great conversion on the Focus to make it a fun car to drive and own. If you're looking for a sports compact car, I would drive them all and include the 'SVT Focus' on my list. I did and I am happy with my purchase." — J.D., May 23, 2003

"The SVT is a screaming deal, especially if you could get it with the $2,500 rebate. This is one very fun car. Superb handling, great acceleration, very comfortable ride for a performance car, decent gas mileage and very spacious interior (lots of headroom). All these make the SVT a great commuter car. I've driven Porsche, Audi, Saab, Mercedes and others and the Ford Focus SVT ranks one of the highest in terms of fun to drive. The only complaint I have is the over aggressive bad-boy styling." — Ayccya, April 2, 2003

"I bought one of the first SVT Focus cars produced (number 455) and I am completely satisfied with my purchase. Zero problems and major grins every time I twist the key. No one makes a car offering this kind of quality and performance for under $25,000. I love the subdued styling and Euro flair. Car performs as well on the track as it does on the street. Sweet exhaust note that really wails at 7,000 rpm. Don't order the traction control since it will slow the cars 0-60 acceleration by about a half second. Without it the SVT will clip 60 in 6.9 to 7 seconds." — Dave Gilmore, March 20, 2003

2003 Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V

"After test-driving several of Nissan's competitors, including the Hyundai Tiburon and the Acura RSX, I chose to purchase the Nissan SE-R spec V. This is a fantastic car! The engine and transmission are solid. The engine produces plenty of power throughout the power band. I decided against the Rockford Fosgate system because I'm going to install my own but the RF radio package is well worth the money. My favorite part of the car is the suspension, it's absolutely fantastic. Firm yet not bouncy. You have total control of the car. A top-of-the-line Spec V shouldn't set you back more than $18,000 which is a value that none of the other cars can touch." — chemboy, May 9, 2003

"An exceptional car for the price. Gives you a real sports car feel. The 175-horse engine and six-speed stick really move. The 17-inch performance tires and sports suspension hug the road like a tight leather glove. The interior is functional and user-friendly and is enhanced by the Rockford Fosgate stereo. Bottom line — The Toyota Corolla is 'cute,' and the average SUV is so big you feel like you're sitting in your living room. This car ROCKS and makes you appreciate driving again." — Marcus, April 24, 2003

"I looked at this car along with the Protegé, Cavalier and Focus. After driving them all, this car was by far the best choice. It is FAST and FUN. It has room for my family (two car seats) and still puts a smile on my face when driving. The seats are supportive and well bolstered. The R/F stereo is exceptional (although not world-class). I got leather put in on all seats and inserts and would highly recommend this. My only complaint is that reverse is located on the right side of the shifter (off of 5th/6th) and there is only a detente to push through to get there. You can end up there in spirited up and downshifts (at high speed)." — JMKLF, March 10, 2003