I have owned 3 DSMs and my current one just blew its clutch. (over 1 year of slipping btw) Anyway, I'm thinking of buying an Evo and am not sure if I want to get a used 05' or a new 06'. My questions are:
1. What is the stock like for new 06' Evos at dealerships?
2. Is there a markup or markdown on 06's, and if so how much?
3. Are there any dealerships in or near Maryland that have good discounts for Evolutionm forum or any other club discounts?

thanks guys.

 

I'll tell you this much......5 time DSM owner here and for a long time in my head I would say "How much different can a EVO be?" it's still AWD it's still heavy 3250lbs...well, the difference is HUGE.....the transmission, case, diffs, shafts all stronger the handling is far better, the brakes night and day, 100% a better platform.

Just buy one in good condition you will never look at a DSM again I guarantee it.

 

still a relative, dsm owner here as well, same idea, new technology....you'll love it!

 

That all depends on whether you can find a good used Evo VIII. Personally, I have not seen may good examples on the used market. For some bizarre reason, everyone in the USA is obsessed with 1/4 mile racing. So, most Evo's have been dragged (and that's VERY abusive to the drivetrain). Also, a lot of younger, broke-*** guys buy Evos. That means tons of cheap mods. That means guys with just enough money to buy the car...but not enough to maintain it properly. And poor maintenance will kill your Evo in no time.

On top of that, break-in is critical on these cars. With careful break-in, your car won't burn a drop of oil between changes and wear on the drivetrain will be minimal. I've got 50K miles on my '03 Evo VIII and it literally doesn't burn a drop of oil...even under hard track use. A lot of that has to do with how carefully I broke in the engine to properly seat the piston rings. As a side effect, my engine makes terrific power.

Unless you personally know the owner, I would stay far FAR away from used Evo's. Besides, they hold their values well. You can pick up a nice, basic Evo IX for just a few thousand more than a used one will cost. Why take a chance?


On top of that, the ergonomics of the Evo are a million miles ahead of the DSM. I could never get comfortable in a DSM. Too little headroom. Awkward seating position. Poor visibility. But the Evo is one of the most comfortable cars to drive. The seats, steering wheel, shifter, and tall greenhouse all work together to make the Evo a joy to drive.

Emre

 

Not sure if you are aware of DC Evo. I'm sure there are people you could meet up within the area. Unfortunately, I got an 04' so I can't really give any sound advice.

http://www.dcevoclub.com

 

what kayaalp was saying about used evos is most often correct. i got a used 04 with low miles, which is why i bought it (that and ssl of course). thus far, the only mechanical problem i had was the t-case whine. i got that taken care of under warranty. but theres a few cigarette burns, minor body damage and a BUNCH of random bolts and plastic fasteners missing. its not really a big deal, but it shows that the previous owner didnt put too much effort in maintenace and overall well being of his evo. its got a good home now though. new is the way to go...u can start from scratch and u get the warranty, which we all know goes out the window once the mod fever kicks in. but at lest ull get a few months to break it in and make sure everything runs ok

 

there are a few well maintained used evos in the market you just have to be sure the owner wasnt a jack-a$$...but to be 100% your getting an unabused car you will have to buy a new one.

as for the difference between an evo and a DSM there really is no comparison...I had a '99 GSX w/ a 50trim and there is no comparing it to the evo...night and day performance differences. You wont regret going the evo route

 

It reeks of machV in here..

I'm currently in a similar mindset, I've been holding off on my RWD swap to see if a few things go through to allow the purchase of a IX. My good buddy has one, and it really is better in every way. Makes the DSM feel like a deathtrap that hauls ***...

 

take a trip or get it shipped
https://www.evolutionm.net/forums/sh...d.php?t=251786

 

i always LOVE DSMs... even if i bought an evo... i would still keep a DSM around...

 

Clutches are cheaper than an Evo, plus insurance.
I love my DSM's, but I do plan on getting a IX MR when I graduate and land a job... seems so far away.