[s-cars] New or nearly-new car purchase

[D15b7 at aol.com]

hi.  i can provide a bit of insight on this question, as i recently was in the exact situation as you seem to be....

7 weeks ago, i made the plunge, and purchased a slightly used (2614 miles) '03 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution.  delivered price (from a small dealership) $24520.  i am THRILLED with the car.  already have put 2500 miles on it!  unbelievable acceleration;  phenomenal handling and braking.  marginal (econo-box origins) interior appointments.  questionable styling (unless you are a Fast-N-Furious type!).  for the $$$, though, i am not sure that it can be beaten.  Also, if you are so inclined, very very modifyable!

new '03s were selling for the mid $27k range;  the one i picked up was in "new" condition;  price was right and it didn't appear to have been abused.

i wish you good luck in your car search!

todd