Yet another: help me choose a car out of these 3
 

Budget: sub 18000$.

2006+ Civic Si
2007+ GTI
2007+ MazdaSpeed 3

So as you can see I'm going for a sporty car. Going to be for the occasional road trip, work commute and basic errands. Must be reliable in the long run (so input from owners is appreciated). I have driven the Si and it's fun as hell. The transmission is smooth, handles magnificently, and that exhaust note is awesome. Have never driven a VW, but I've heard the GTI is better than the SI and of course the Speed3 is just f*ckin fast (though I've heard is is kind of unreliably). Also, all the cars must be under 80,000kms.

Only if you show me a picture of your beard

You need a RWD bro lol.

Mazda speed 3
Posted via RS Mobile

I'm biased, but the speed3 will be the faster car in stock form. I wouldn't say it's unreliable, but of the 3, it probably is. It's not as refined as the other 2, especially if transmission shifting feel matters to you.

If you just want to slap on parts and not worry about anything, then the speed3 is probably not for you. It has some issues with the stock tune, probably what lead to the earlier blown motors. Other weaknesses are the stock HPFP, and intake valve build up due to being direct injection. The knock sensor is pretty sensitive, so even with Chevron 94, you will get some knock if running a Cobb 91/93 OTS map. The Cobb AP and learning to tune with ATR helps fix most of these tune related issues. The motor moves around quite a bit and the stock motor mounts aren't that great. You pretty much have to buy a bunch of parts to get the car running "right".

I too would say i'm a bit biased towards the Speed3 (use to work as a Mazda tech) and I have driven the GTi before, not an Si yet.

the Speed3 is stupidly fast and as far as reliability is concerned, if you leave it as stock and do regular maintenance then it shouldn't give u too many surprises in terms of fixes. If you can, try looking for a 2008.5+ , slightly better design on the interior and some mechanical improvements.

If you're interested in the Civic Si, I have an 07 i wouldn't mind selling...
My short "review" on it is it's surprisingly quick (NOT FAST) it's got an awesome road feel, Stock Alcantara seats are hella comfy. If you're taller than 6'-6'2" you will have head clearance problems. 6MT trans is great, interior has a great layout. Fuel economy is decent. i get 25.2MPG 70% city 30% highway. **MUST USE PREMIUM** not sure if that's a turn off for you. If you're interested in mine, it's an 07 Si FG2 (2dr coupe) Alabaster Silver Metallic, 85,000KM just changed the oil and replaced front brakes. Can include a brand new set of summer tires and a set of snowies used for 1 season (8,000KM).

Speed 3

GTI. Its more classy, refined and mature. You can chip it if you want more power.

I would pick speed 3.

I love the SI! Very fun car, good gas milage, good back seats and great Honda reliability. This is the car to get!

The MazdaSpeed 3 is probably the fastest car, hatchback can fit lots but its has too much power for a FF imo (I drive a 250 hp FWD car).

The GTI probably is the most dynamic to drive but VW reliability and expensive parts scares me.

Mazda Speed 3

GTi no doubt. Read the reviews...

I'd probably go with the GTI

Not sure if deliberate collective troll but it seems like this thread is going to be 33/33/33 support for all 3 choices, which in the end would not help OP at all...

speed3! the power!

Long term + GTI. And if you get DSG?

Report to us after you rebuild the transmission. kthxbye.

Reliability and value = Civic
Comfort and ergonomics = GTI
Power = Mazdaspeed 3


I would go for the GTI as well…power will get old but comfort and ergo is something you'll enjoy for a longer period

personally I will go for the GTI.

gti hands down

MS3 for me.

Ive been looking at a GTI too and i dont think anything in that class can be as fun while being luxurious. German build quality + easy power mods.

Speed 3 would be second choice but doesnt that car have a lot of torque steer?

I'd pick the GTI

I'd go with an Civic Si

MS3 FTMFW :h5: