Would most people skip the 03 and go for an 05+? Im in the market for a used evo but it seems like most people skip the 03 model for later years. Should I just save the money for an 05+ instead of opting for an 03?

 

I may be wrong, but the minor issues with the 03 are easily remedied. It's really all about the price. Some people avoid first model year problems, I enjoy having the first model year of a car.

 

I prefer the 03's over the 04's & 05's because I don't like ACD and I like a cheaper price.

but 06's (evo 9's) trump all.

 

So getting an 03 isnt a downgrade conpared to an 05? What about mod potential and handling? Is the IX that much better

 

one word, mivec

 

Not in my book. the 05 will have an ever so slightly bigger turbo and have ACD. other than that, nothing worth noting is different.

Yes, the 9 is that much better. It is shown in the price difference though.

 

The 9s arnt that much better. I used to own a 9, now i have an 8. It all depends on your long term goals for the car. If you plan on building it get an 8. If all you plan on doing is minor boltons get a 9.

 

Would getting an 05 over an 03 be that worth it as apposed to the opposite

 

IMO no lol. If you really want acd just get a 9. Otherwise, you can throw a 9 turbo and some cams into a 8 and call it a day.

 

yea if u cam it, it doest really matter if its an 8 or a 9. cams for an 8 will be a couple hundred bucks cheaper too. and if u get an 03, u wont have to worry about ur ACD breaking. lol i have an 03, and im satisfied.

 

All 03s had hid lights too iirc.

 

9s have better interiors lol. thats why when i was in the hunt for an evo it was 100% gonna be a 9. i did tell myself if i have to settle for an 8 itll be the 05 model

 

Just buy the evo 9 interior. Its only like a grand plus you dont have to worry about acd and mivec. Mivec is great for just bolt ons. If you are going to build motor and such then just get an 03 and save the money. You save more by getting an 03 so you could get the interior and more and be at the price of a 06 with probably higher miles.

 

I love my 03!

The plan is to eventually buy IX for DD and dedicate the 03 to the track. I'd keep the IX fairly stock with some bolt ons.

 

I finally found an 05 ssl im buying on saturday. Mechanically owned and maintained. Im super stoked.