Owned a Evo V11 for a couple of years now. The IX is a better car, the engine has a variable cam timing system over the 7, better suspension and so on, lots of detail changes. Parallels with the 916/996/998 development!!
They are amazingly practical with as much interior space as a a Vectra and a big boot, but with serious performance. The downside is serious running costs. A full set of Brake pads all round with OEM bits are nearly £1000, but there are specialists who can reduce the bills significantly. Fuel consumption of Super unleaded in the 20's taking it steady, in the teens driving enthusiastically, and in single figures on track!! Check out an insurance quote as well.
They are a fast but heavy car, the brakes can be a weak point, A set of slicks can be gone in one track day, with a set of standard discs every 3rd or fourth track day. A few full power starts can see the standard clutch off as well.
Depreciation is pretty bad as well with new models out every 12 to 24 Months.
Having said all that for the performance they are hard to beat at the price they are, point to point very, very quick and as yet I have never fallen off!
Also easy to get drawn into mild tuning to give 400 BHP, about £1500 worth. The mechanical bits other than the weaknesses mentioned are pretty good.
Some say spend the money on a Porsche but you would be looking at double the cost for a 4x4 version, maybe a Subaru?? A lot depends on what you want use it for, road or track or a combination. They are not foolproof despite the AYC etc, if you do get into trouble you will be going very fast.
Try the
www.lancerregister.com for more info, buyers guide and stuff,
Ray.