2003 Mitsubishi Lancer OZ Rally 2.0L 4-cylinder

Summary:

Compact sedan which wants desperately to be a sports car

Faults:

Exhaust system issues.

Bad MAF sensor around 200K.

Alternator went out around 150K.

Oil leak (especially around the valve cover; gasket had to be replaced in early 2016).

Tie rod ends a couple of years ago.

General Comments:

I'm the second owner, and I got it my sophomore year of college. It's been rode hard and put away wet, but with only a fluid check/oil change, it's still reliable to go on a trip between Dallas and Houston.

Definitely showing its age, and has a recurring issue with the exhaust system that reduces gas mileage/power slightly. Still a good driver.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 25th February, 2017

2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR 2.0 turbo

Summary:

If you're looking for: four doors, AWD and turbo charged/reliable performance - Buy an Evo!

Faults:

Well, after 200k the engine will need a rebuild (which I am planning to do. I have driven the car to Hell and back!). But the turbo is still running happy!

I've replaced the clutch twice - that is a real pain to change.

Other than that, this car is a freakin' monster! The Japanese know how to make one reliable tank/supercar - 4door bundle! VERY, VERY, VERY reliable drivetrain. Unbelievable.

General Comments:

The car gets a lot of attention (good thing?). It is very fast and handles well. Parts are modestly cheap, and working on the car yourself will make it have Honda/Toyota running costs.

The ride quality is harsh, and there are no refinements in luxury. The seats hold you firmly in place, and the shifter is notchy, but feels mechanically solid.

Paint is not up-to-par with other modern cars... :)

Did I mention the OEM clutch stinks?

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th December, 2011

2003 Mitsubishi Lancer ES 2.0L L4

Summary:

Sporty little compact reliable car

Faults:

The car is extremely. Reliable.

Brake pads at 90,000 miles.

Timing belt at 158000 miles.

Hole in the muffler at 162,000 miles.

Spark plugs did not work at 160,000 miles.

A few wheel adjustments that fixed extreme shaking.

General Comments:

This car is has very good, has handling and is very reliable. It is also small, and has very good visibility.

For being only 13,000 dollars, this car is well made, reliable and handles well.

The only problems are it's a very loud ride, and the car lacks cruise control. It is also very Bamby, but for the price it's the best deal!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 21st February, 2010

2003 Mitsubishi Lancer

Summary:

I will never get this car again!!!

Faults:

Paint is chipping off in round circles.

Seats are wearing badly.

Heater/Ac needs to be replaced. ($2500 just for the part.)

Transmission is going out.

Steering wheel is wearing out. The plastic is falling off.

The brakes are constantly squeaking. I have replaced them many times and the wear out way too fast.

General Comments:

This car does have good handling.

It is good with gas mileage.

Not a very good car if you are a tall person and have carseats in the back. My stroller doesn't fit in the trunk. Not a good family car. Okay for a single person.

When you try to pull out in the rain, the wheels slip and you don't get any power. This is not safe at all.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 18th April, 2007

21st Jul 2007, 08:20

No need to buy the same car again, just buy another Lancer, 'cause they ARE reliable!!!

29th Oct 2012, 17:45

Unable to accommodate tall people and a family - I don't think it's the fault of the vehicle. Perhaps YOU made the wrong choice! Lancers are very reliable cars.

2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII 2.0 turbo

Summary:

The best car under $60,000

Faults:

Xenon headlight bulb burned out at 22,000 miles, fixed under warranty.

Brake rotors warped at 32000 miles, have had them shaved flat 3 times now, problem keeps recurring.

Windshield washer stopped working at 26000 miles, fixed under warranty.

Tires only last 14,000 miles, and cost $250 each, but are worth it!

General Comments:

The best handling car under $70,000!

Not a harsh ride, much better than the Toyota Supra Turbo I had before.

Routinely blows away Mustangs.

Has a back seat and a trunk.

An amazing bargain for $32,000.

Get the sunroof!

Only needs cruise control (for those speed traps) to be perfect.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th December, 2006

19th Feb 2007, 16:36

Actually the C6 Corvette is well known as the best performance car under 50k, and the Z06 variant as the best under 70k including handling. Not to mention that the Lancer Evolution is a... Mitsubishi and a ratty looking one at that. No class or comfort whatsoever.

19th Feb 2007, 21:06

Yeah, the Corvette just screams class and comfort what with its Mattel plastic interior and its "let's feel every pebble on the road" ride.

The Corvette is a bargain, but let's keep things in perspective.