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Coincidentally, I transitioned from a 2002 Protege to the FRS.
I on the other hand have had a long history of two seat sports cars, so am used to some of the space dictated limitations.
It is a great transportation module. If you are single and don't envision putting people in the back seat, then you should be fine for most things. The trunk space is seldom a problem for me. I do have a hatchback if I need to carry big stuff (MGB GT).
Coming from the Protege, you will be impressed by the increase in power.
What sets the FRS aside from all other cars on the road is its light weight. Light weight allows for a driving experience that can be appreciated all the time and at all speeds. If this has value to you, then you will love the car. Drag racing abilities on the other hand, can only really be appreciated on the odd times that you are trolling for speeding tickets or exhibitionist driving citations. I rarely go there. In other words, if you have a small **** mentality, the FRS is not the car to buy.
The FRS is reasonably cheap to buy and maintain. That said, Oil and brake changes are going to be a shock after the protege. Front pads and rotors are $450 from Toyota (parts only) and oil changes around $70 since you need 0-20 synthetic. Premium fuel cost gets old also when you consider that there is no real benefit from it.
As far as being a foundation to make your own personal automotive statement, there is lots of aftermarket support for all systems on the car. Wheels, Tires, exhaust and suspension are all easy to work on.
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