Actually, my 5 has the 2.3 in it. Which is the same as yours, but Mazdas redid the head and added variable valve timing. Didn't get the 2.5 until 2010. It is essentially an overgrown Mazda3. Which is riding on the second generation Focus European chassis. 2006 was the first year for the 5 in the U.S. The 5 is an absolute blast to drive. It handles like a sports car. Sorry for the schooling. I am really into these cars. It all started with the Focus's I owned. A 2000 and a 2002 ZX3. And to this day I am still an active member on Focaljet. As for my fox project. I am sticking with what I know. I took a 1985 Mustang four cylinder and converted it into a 351W/ 5 speed. Reworked every inch of that car.
I'm over on the Focus Fanatics myself, but don't post there much anymore since I've got the HHR. Geez -I just noticed you also have a Probe GT. Bought one for my older daughter as her first car back around 2005 or so. She drives a '04 ZX3, also with a 2.3 now....
Yes, I am on my second Probe GT. Acquired my first one back in 1995 (94 GT). I am quite addicted to them. I call my current cars my hybrids. A Mazda with a Ford motor and a Ford with a Mazda motor.
