The '08 Focus....

Looking at new 3's in my area I'll have to spend close to 18K...at least if I want the 2.3, assuming I find one with a manual transmission. I found only 2 different 3i 4 doors with a manual transmission within 100 miles of Memphis (the hatch starts several THOUSAND higher than the 4 door).

As far as the "rubbish badge" and it's associated depreciation....I don't know where you live, but in this and other areas I've lived the Mazda badge commands a higher ASKING price, new or used, than a Ford and in some cases even a Honda. I don't understand it, but dealers in this area ask as much or more for a used Tribute or B series truck, for example, than the same Ford...I think they believe rarity/exclusiveness justifies the higher price for a Mazda.

I remembered yesterday another MAJOR reason why I was considering the Focus....the availibility of the 2 door coupe body style with I hope wider doors..

^I agree. I can't find a Mazda3 anywhere near NorCal for anywhere near $9k with a manual trany. I can't seem to find a deal on any used Mazda3. The prices are very close to what I would pay for a new car and I'd have a warranty and cheaper financing (if needed).

04 5spd hatch with 80k

ok, its not close to norcal, but i'm sure if you're patient you can find something closer to you.

also, it bears mentioning since you were looking for a 2.3 focus, the 3i sedans are going to have the 2.0l. they're peppy enough but needs to be wound up more than the 2.3.

or, just drive an older car and spend money on fun parts focus

Strizzo: there are only 2 new Mazda 3 within 150 miles of where I live that have a manual transmission, both are the 2 liter i 4 door sedans....I didn't even find the more expensive s model with a manual tranny. As another poster has pointed out, I can find these cars used, but the price being asked makes a new one, with it's warranty, a better bargain.

2.0dohc: I'm currently driving an older car (a '92 Integra) and am looking for a newer car that won't cost me an arm and leg to operate (gas, maint. and insurance) and if I could afford it, I would probably find a newer Integra (say, a '99 or 2000).

If I were buying a Mazda 3, I would have a difficult time justifying th extra cost of the "S" over the "i." You only sacrifice a little performance (and you gain a little economy) with the "i."

It may not be a bad idea to consider a new "i." Like the new Civic and the MINI, the Mazda 3 is still commanding pretty high resale prices as a used car.