In advance I apologize for a repeat post. I tried searching for many variations of each of those questions, and couldn't find it (although I'm sure I saw it here... argh!)

I'm soon to want to upgrade from my current car, a 2003 Mini Cooper (non-s). I like the handling of the Mini, but it has no guts and limited tuning potential (NASP).

So... I found the evo, and like everyone here, fell in love.

It seems like (since I'm on a budget), a 2004 Evo VIII RS is a pretty sweet option, cost-wise and performance wise. It also seems like a 2006 evo IX is the ultimate evo, but I can't afford a good one. With the 2004, should I worry about mileage (assuming it's clean title, non tuned, appears to be driven semi-lightly, clean bill of health)? How long do these cars last on average? I don't want a car that's going to conk out at 80,000 miles.

Also, when (not if... when =P ) I get an evo, what are the most important/basic/first mods, considering a limited budget? It seems like people say:
1. Boost Gauge
2. Air Filter/Intake
3. Catback or Turboback w/ highflow cat
4. ECU Remap


Thanks in advance for everyone's replies. I'm quite excited about getting such a phenomenal car.

 

Your on the right track. Evos can be as reliable as any other car or just as unreliable, just depends on how you treat it if youve serviced the car on time.

Get the ix bov, TBE, Boost controller, air filter, good boost gauge, and a good tune. Thats a good start. Good luck.

 

Aren't there a few evo's out there that are close to or above 200k miles already? With all original parts, besides the routine services?

 

Yeah but don't forget that timing belt, breaking a belt on an interference motor is bad bad bad!

 

Look for a good condition 2003 EVO VIII. A lot if EVOs came over the first year. A lot to choose from. The best value, IMO.

Your mod list is right on the money.

 

I would get a 03-04, right around 20kISH give or take a grand. Then as far as mods, Turbo Back, MBC, Intake, a IX bov/dv, and a boost gauge, and dont forget a good tune! goodluck

 

Do your homework when purchasing any car of course and you'll be fine. Your mod list is right on the money.