Pioneer Avic Z-1 for 2002.5 Mazda Protege

Ok, hoping someone here has experience with this combination of HUs and vehicles.  Have done a little research and the 2002.5 Mazda Protege ES either has a 2 DIN opening or a 1 & 3/4 DIN opening (who knew there was such a thing?).  Not surprisingly, there's conflicting information out there as to whether or not the Pioneer Avic Z-1 will fit.  According to Best Buy (who says the Protege has a 2 DIN opening) the Avic Z-1 will fit.  According to Crutchfield.com, the Avic Z-1 won't fit.  Of the two sources, I'm inclined to trust Crutchfield.com, but that wouldn't be the answer I want.

The measurements on the Avic Z-1 are:  7.027" wide X 7.127" deep X 3.934" tall.  I haven't yet pulled my OEM Head Unit, but measuring the outside opening, I get values that should allow me to fit the Avic Z-1.  Other than buying the Avic Z-1 and trying to fit it (and returning it with a 15% restocking fee) or building a wooden mock-up to the Avic Z-1's dimensions and test-fitting it, any ideas on how to confirm whether or not the Avic Z-1 will fit in the Protege?