I would personally stay clear of the 2.2 GM. We use to change the 2.2 out to the 3.0 because lack of power. There is a reason they quit offering it as an option.

in comparison to the mazda...i personally thing that the mazda is a better and more reliable engine. And much easier to work on.

The starter on those you have to do from the bottom, meaning you have to jack it up, and i always find that belts love to squeel and usually set up very stupid.