I have an 03 that i run autocross, motor has 150000 with automatic, and it is FAST around an autocross track, i love my alero for the fact that it is the first car i purchased and paid off on my own. i have invested a large amount of money into modifications to the suspension, engine and trans for racing.
here is a link to some of the racing videos, its fun and eye opening when an alero can beat vettes and porche's on an autocross track.
http://www.youtube.com/user/wireless0ne