Greetings all! This is my first post on EvoM.net. I currently have a 350z which is my project car for drift, and now Im looking to get an EVO for my DD/autox car, and maybe some road courses in the future.

Anyways, I am searching to get a used EVO. I know the differences btw the years and models, but I wanted to make sure I am making the right purchase. If I am looking to eventually upgrade everything(turbo, bolt ons, differentials, suspension) would an 03 GSR be the best buy? Since this is my DD, I dont want an RS version. And I dont really see a need to get the MR version since I dont care to either have the 5spd/6spd, and I will be upgrading most of those features that the MR comes with standard. Now, the questions is should I get an 03-04, or get an 05 model? The only reasons for going with a newer car is the ACD, front differential(which I could always upgrade the open front diff in the 03-04 eventually), and the 10.5 hotside, and MIVEC.

which would be the best platform for upgrading? Are the differentials easily changed on the EVO? I have dont plenty of RWD and FWD diffs, but no AWD. I basically looking for the best platform for upgradable power(around 350-450whp) and the best possible handling. Also, Is the ACD worth it to get the newer models?

 

Get an 05 GSR. 2005 have the least amount of issues for the 8's. The 6spd's are nothing but trouble so stay clear of MR's and once you upgrade the turbo there is really nothing different between the 9 and the 8.

 

I would say get an 06 GSR, the 05 GSR should be fine as well, it just does not have MIVEC, or the 9 turbo.

 

The 05 platform is pretty rock solid.

 

05 gsr is your best bet
If you could find a 9 gsr for roughly the same price, id try to get it.

 

For the money the 05 is the best bet, but the IX's respond better to mods.

 

Get A Ix.....

 

I have an 03 and have always had great reliability.

 

so as far as the handling, the 05's will be better b/c the front helical LSD AND THE ACD correct? Are these worth the difference, or could I get an 03, and just upgrade the LSD and ACD myself? Im looking to stick around $22-25 on the price range, which I have found a few 05's in that range.

 

the 06's are going to be a little too much for my price range. But, I was either thinking to just go with the 05, as I hear the stock front LSD is pretty solid. But I have found alot of good deals for 03's and 04's around $20k, which I could save myself some money and do some upgrades.

 

Depends on how far you will go. IX responds better to basic mods, but from what I have seen, once you start moving over 400whp+, they are about the same.

 

if not RS then GSR. /although in usa no gsr.../ Also try to get a MIVEC engine. The IX have a revised 5 speed tranny too.

 

Get a IX! Make power with less mods at first.

 

ix's have much more potential with less mods. TBE, MBC, Fuel pump, LICP, Tune on a ix...much greater gains than an 8. Go RS if you are looking for an all out monster

 

If I could afford it though...I would have bought the 9. But I refuse to buy another Mitsubishi again because of the horrible warranty trouble they have.