HELP -> Echo vs Protege

I know neither is particularly exciting... but I've been doing LOTS of reading on both and am fairly happy with the general ratings for either vehicle (around 2000 model year, which I will be acquiring used)... my problem, therefore, is this:

How do these two cars fare in snow/rain?

What are the repairs like? How often?

How bad is the wind buffeting in the Echo?

How regular is maintenance for the Protege?

Any information would be of the UTMOST help. I really want to sort this out and I've been tearing myself apart reading all sorts of different stuff on BOTH cars... HELP!

i.

Protegé...it's a good lil car!

Some token eye candy

http://www.bonaccorsiracing.com/Images/photos/40atlanta.jpg

Wait for the new MAzda3 ;) or if you REALLY can't wait then get a Protege