[MERAH] - The Beginning of the Big Fat Snail

i bought these fat bubble march 2004... 2 days after i bought it, i reached 1000km already, blame it on paul for bringing me to Great Ocean Road. love the car, and love how it handle. it got good grips and balance for a passenger car....

but somehow what lack from it is the grunt... however, i dont need it yet as i couldnt even handle and use the available power to the max yet...

the basic figure for Mazda3 SP23 2004 (nothing to fancy):

Engine type: 2.3 litre 4 cylinder in-line 16 valve DOHC S-VT
Engine capacity (cc): 2,260
Bore and stroke (mm): 87.5 x 94.0
Compression ratio: 9.7 : 1
Maximum power: 115Kw @ 6,500rpm
Maximum torque: 203Nm @ 4,500rpm
0-100kmh: 8.3sec
0-400m: 15.9sec
top speed: 230kmh

Fuel system: Multipoint electronic injection
Fuel tank capacity: 55 lt
Fuel consumption: (manual) 9.0lt/100km
Transmission Ratios
1st - 3.307
2nd - 1.842
3rd - 1.310
4th - 0.970
5th - 0.755
Reverse - 3.166
Final drive - 4.388

Chassis and Suspension
Front brake: Ventilated disc - 300mm
Rear brake: Solid disc - 280mm
Front suspension: Independent MacPherson strut with coil springs and double acting shock absorbers
Rear suspension: Independent multi-link with low profile springs and cylindrical double acting shock absorbers
Steering: Electro hydraulic power assisted (engine revolution sensing) rack and pinion
Turning circle: 10.4m
Tyres: 205/50R17 89V
Wheels: 17 x 6.5 J (alloy) - offset +52 - 9.5kg
Spare tyre/wheel: Temporary/Space saver

Dimensions
Overall length: 4,540mm
Overall width: 1,755mm
Overall height: 1,465mm
Wheelbase: 2,640mm

Ground clearance - laden: 121mm
front track: 1,530mm
rear track: 1,515mm
Kerb weight 1,232Kg

so... lets the modding begin...
2 main things to upgrade... 1 is the driver skills, 2 is the car...