Was, I still have my car. Since lancer is an old car you wonât find a lot of price difference between 1.3 GL (base model) and 1.6 GLX SR Auto (top model).
1.6 auto is a CVT. Mitsu makes full range CVT so it runs very smooth and you wonât notice any gear changes. 1.6 also comes with biege interior with wood trim, chrome door handles and sunroof.
1.5 auto JDM models also have CVT but with black interior and no sunroof, chrome door handles, etc. But they do have other features like abs brakes, headlight adjustment, etc. Thereâs a JDM model with an lcd screen embedded in the dash. It has auto climate control as well. Some models have all wheel drive too which makes them grip better on icy and curvy roads.
Although the cvt is a very smooth transmission it does required only its oem oil, Mitsubishi Diaqueen ATF SPIII which may not always be available everywhere so you have to keep stock of it in advance.
Lastly, being 10+ year old cars you should thoroughly get the car inspected, bolt by bolt. You should also keep around 4-5 lacs as a reserve fund so that you can restore the car fully with genuine parts. Common things will be power steering hose, brake pads, discs and shoes, fluids and oil changes, front and rear suspension work, AC work, alternator bearings, engine/transmission mounts, coils, plugs, injectors, fuel filter, fuel pump, etc. The interior wood trim or door trim maybe cracked, the car may require repaint, tires, etc.
Let me know if you need help with anything else.