Mazda: 1996 Mazda Protege, lithium polymer battery, interference engine

Question
Is the engine on the 1996 Mazda Protege an interference engine?
Assuming it is, I am planning to replace the timing belt on my wife's 1996 1.5L Mazda protege. What associated parts should I plan on replacing while I am in there.
FYI - I am a mechanical engineer in the automotive industry (lithium polymer battery) with full access to a lift and tools.
Also, I know of two friends with Proteges one year older - they do not have all of the problems my wife's car has. Furthermore, I have a 1987 Saab with 200K miles on it. I am just begining to replace the original parts on my Saab that I am replacing on the 1996 mazda. I heard that Mazda had a good reputation. What happened? Did quality control slip during the GM transition and obvious managment change?

Thank you so very much,
Your advice and insight would be greatly appreciated.

Richard

Answer
Hi Richard.  As to the mechanical problems I can not help you there as I am not mechanically inclined.  As to quality Mazda has an excellent reputation but there are always exceptions.  Incidentally, Mazda is partly owned by Ford, not GM and quality has increased dramatically since Ford started assisting with engineering,warranty and financial support.  I hope you get yours running and have no further problems.  Best of luck, Bud