I think Ford or Mazda for that matter didn't expect to sale that many V-6s with a manual (you know how the traditional car market is ....everyone wants an auto).....so maybe things should be in better shape for the 2004 MY.
I wanted one of these really bad, but I have had some really bad experiences with several Mazda Service Depts in the Metro area.
And as far as the Altima goes, personally (no offense to anyone I hope), I think it is a little over hyped. The steering sucks big time (not to mention all that torque steer), and the interior is worse than the ones Ford put in the Escort.
