After owning a 03 and currently have a 05, if i were you i'd get an 05 in a couple of years when prices are at your desireable level. The front LSD, ACD, and more torque make the drive better .

I'm sure a low milage RS would be cool too

 

You're asking on an EVO forum, it's kinda bias. But I highly suggest you get an evo, has more potential, awd, better suspension, etc... If you look hard and be patience you can find a used one for about 20k. I found mine for 20k with the mods you see in my signatures. Good luck with your decision.

 

Good replies so far. Most points have been brought up, however the EVO is definitely more expensive to maintain then the SRT-4. I have an 04 with 44k miles and the stock clutch still feels brand new. Not to mention our dodge here in peoria, az doesnt care how modded you are as long as whatever breaks obviously isnt caused by the mods. They will NEVER void your warranty.

So SRT-4= better top end, softer ride for daily driving, about the same quality interior, cheaper to maintain, nearly the same engine potential. On the disadvantages.... everything else. The EVO has a FAR better suspension, drivetrain, steering, stock turbo, wheels, tires, exterior styling, traction, resale value, etc.

 

Alot of people mention how the stock clutch is weak, but that is only somewhat true. If you launch your car 3 times a day 7 days a week, ofcourse it's gonna break down fast. My car is at 51k with stock clutch, and still shift smoothly.
Even if the clutch is down, it's not that much to replace it.
Maintainance shouldn't be that MUCH higher since both are turbo cars require the same maint. service.

 

WTF? Man, you are insane. Maybe on the world's tiniest road course that might happen, but I doubt it.

 

shiz, ill buy it for 15k haha

 

EVO = rally car
SRT-4 = neon

 

That is all pretty much true..except for the dealership part. You are lucky your dealership is so cool. My warranty was voided for having an aftermarket BOV. The only reason I didn't take it off was because they had seen it before and didn't care, but the new management screwed me. One more reason to hate dodge and go back to mitsubishi even though the first thing I'll do to an evo will probably void my warranty.

 

everyone had already stated the facts about the evos, i'll tell you this much. i came from a 02 acura rsx fwd and went to an 05 evo, brother i tell you now i couldnt be happier. just go drive one and see how fast you will fall in love with it. i know i did and i bet everyone else on this forum did also.

 

I picked up my EVO tonight!! I'm in love!!

 

i went from FWD to AWD i love it you cannot beat breaking all 4 lose, the best feeling ever

 

SRT-4 aren't that bad save yourself 15k and keep it

 

Which EVO is yours in goldsboro? I just PCS'd from seymour.

 

Just remember, buying ANY used car is a crapshoot, but a used performance car can be a very expensive gamble.

 

AWD and the 10+ years of progressive performance refinement that Mitsubishi has done is a mighty strong arguement to go for the Evo.