The US didn't get the Lantis. I wish it did, it's my favorite styling of the Familia lineup.
So you have the GS? Are you tech swavvy? Swap out the 1.8L V6 for the 2.5L V6. Get the same mileage with increased power. Don't want to? Ok, ditch the 1.8L V6 for the 1.8L SOHC or DOHC from an Escort GT (DOHC) or Protege (DX, LX respectively). Its a much better motor, more fuel efficient.
The 2.5L (KLDE) is found in 626s, and swaps in and bolts up flawlessly. I highly recommend it. But that totally goes against ecomodding where smaller is better.
Thinking you don't want a motor swap? Find someone who is parting out the 5th gear from a 626, I can't remember which generation. It's taller (3.6xx) than even the gear ratio found in the G25M transmission from the Protege and Escort (3.717). It's cake to remove the 5th gear, novices have done it in a weekend without a garage. The transmission only weighs 76lbs, and the cover on the driverside hides the 5th gear, super easy access. If you need, I could probably find the FAQ guide that steps one through all the steps, including where to buy the parts new.
Don't know where to start?
Club Protege - Powered by vBulletin
Almighty4WD is my name over there, but I don't frequent since I sold my 4WD Protege. You will find more than enough info needed. Turpro is a great guy and mod, helped me in a few things. Look him up and mention me (Craig, or almightybmw, or almighty4wd) and he'll point you in the general direction, if not the exact one.
I used to be a Mazda buff, but since ditching the 4WD for a truck, I haven't kept pace. Now I ditch the truck, and wish for my AWD rally car back.
oh well.