I guess those other links timed out or something. I paid $6,500 for my car 3 1/2 years ago. Now an average price is about $3,000-$3,500 for a car like mine. Prices really vary depending on where you live. The guys in California can't seem to find one for less than $4,500 some paying up to to $7,000. The rust has really taken a toll on the cars up here in Canada and the northern states especially with lots of salt on the roads.
There is a classifieds web site here called KIJIJI that lists tons of 02 protege's ranging from $400-$6,500. Once a car gets to be ten or more years old there can be vast differences between them. My car is in very good shape compared to just about every one I've seen on the road up here. Like you said I look at every one I see and look at the rear wheel wells.
I'm kinda wondering about the price you paid though because it needs major engine work, but if you do it yourself you can save lots of money, learn a lot and have fun while you're doing it. I might be inclined to think the previous owner may have neglected it or wrung the snot out of it to make it knock. My car has 210,000 km on it and runs perfect without burning a drop of oil. I really keep on top of regular maintenance including yearly rust proofing, it not only stops the rust but keeps solenoids and electric motors lubricated so they don't strain and burn out on you. I've been promoting Krown so maybe they shut down my link. I don't work for them or anything I've just had good luck with them. There is no Krown in the US but if you do go to get it undercoated make sure they drill the access holes to get the stuff up into where it is really needed.
Do a forum search for Krown. The links seem to work then.
