I would go with the ssl or se over the mr. the 6 speed isn't really needed unless you do a lot of highway driving. But even when I did drive the highways with the 5 speed it wasn't bad... And if you ever decide you do wanna mod it youll already be set with the 5 speed.

 

Change your final drive for longer gears? There are a surprising number of options if you search.

OP do you spend a lot of time on the highway? If so go with the 6spd.
If you want the sunroof buy one and install it. Or find someone who wants the lighter aluminium and trade.
The SE trim looks better IMO, just harder to keep clean. The SSL leather looks like you could barf on it, wipe it off with a dirty sock and look brand new.

 

Since when are the seats a different size between SSL and other versions of the same Evo?

I do agree the HIDs are worth it over the standard Evos.

 

I love the sunroof and stock sound system!

I searched a while for an SSL, they seemed pretty rare on the IX, especially in good condition but I finally found an unmolested WW IX. I was also looking at MRs and test drove a few; the aluminum roof and lightweight BBS wheels were very appealing. The SSL has a heavier roof which raises the center of gravity a bit and I think it might be the heaviest Evo model. Maybe if you tracked a stock MR and stock SSL back to back you might notice a difference but as a DD or weekend warrior I don't think you will ever notice.

You really can't lose no matter what model you get, honestly. Just make sure it's not beat to crap.

 

I have heard a lot of people say they love the sound system? Mine is straight garbage...
Not too concerned with it though. No one buys an Evo for the interior or sound system.

I agree 100% with the comment of not going wrong with any trim. All great. But, why does everyone seem to dislike silver? I have always loved that color.

 

I've never upgraded speakers on any of my cars so maybe my standards are low for speakers

Most of the MRs I test drove were silver and they looked fantastic. I would have gone with silver had the right opportunity presented itself.

 

I got a GSR and i FREAKING LOVE IT. But regardless Any model is better than the lancer oz :P

 

Silver was my first choice. Than black or blue. Just have heard a lot of people say anything but silver... Each to their own I guess. Can't be too picky anymore... I see less and less of them around.

 

I swapped out my 6 speed. There's only a few hundred rpm difference in 5th on a 5 speed compared to the 6th on the 6-speed when you're on the highway. Also, I must be one of the few people that prefer the MR interior....then again I do own an MR so I guess I would be bias.

 

5 speed is stronger and regardless if youre NOT tracking your car, at least it will last you longer!

 

MR or SSL will bring you the same joy, just as long as its not an RS or a base GSR with halogen lights and no fogs

 

5 speed for sure.

 

Someone correct me if I am wrong, but I thought that 500 HP is pushing it for a stock 6-speed? Obviously, driving habits will affect survivability.

Also, if you are taller, you may want to sit in an SSL before buying. A bit less headroom, compared with other Evos.

 

you mean the 9 right, mine is a 8 gsr and i have hid.

 

05 and 06 gsr base came with no fogs only halogen