No not high. If I were to compare new car to new car then yes for the price i'd go for a Maz, but if I were to get a used car. I would probably get a civic or a EK6 put a B16 engine in there, which will kick out approx 160hp or more ? Yes it is only a 2L but a 0.3L difference on a lighter car (being the civic) it will just be quicker. Overall it may cost a bit more then a used maz or maybe less depending on labour. I love my car it takes great cornering/turns but I just wish it was rev happy like the OLD hondas.