Not sure why anyone would buy one of these. Overinflated prices for a very average vehicle mean it's best to look at something else.
I think these Civics are much better than average, especially when you consider their compeition in the early years: Sentra, Corolla, Protege.. I don't think it's right to compare them to the Mazda3's as the Mazda is significantly newer.
While the driving dynamics are pretty bland, especially compared to the Protege (anyone sense a bias?), the engine is wonderfully smooth, the transmission (manual) is terrific and they get great fuel economy. Had they offered a Civic hatch there's a good chance I'd be driving one.
Sure they hold their value well, but with so many on the market you can find a reasonably priced one.