There Sportbacks are hard to come by, especially that cheap. Within 30 miles of me, there is only one sportback available( it's a R/A) with 28k miles for $16,000, I would have traded were it less money.

 

you got to keep in mind that this thing was only made for one year and in limited numbers. im glad i got mine when i did because everyone now is hunting this thing down.

 

true...true...esp. limited numbers.

 

Actually, I have one last pretty important question. One of the main reasons I'm looking into getting a Sportback is because my Corolla is too cramped for my liking (I'm 6' 3"). Does anyone, or know someone, have experience with the Sportback that could tell me if it's a good fit for taller people?

 

I just found out that in the early 2000's (2000-2004 or so), Mitsubishi had big financial difficulties and was covering up defects. I hope this doesn't mean my '04 Sportback is going to be crap.

 

deff not i have 20,000 on mine and the thing is running great

 

I think Mitsubishi is still trying to work out it's financial issues, however, I don't think there will be any issues with the vehicle due to that. They do have the ability to still get pretty good reviews, the Outlander for 04 was reviewed not too terribly, most were rather happy with it(professional reviews). As far as having room in it, I'm 6'2 and drove the Lancer and it was okay, there was enough headroom and all, if there is a sunroof, it makes it a bit tighter. The Sportback should be the same. The only trouble I find in smaller cars is where to put my knees. The center of the dash kind of imposes a bit. It will certainly sit lower than the Corolla, so if you have any physical ailments, may not be the best idea. If you have any large bumps, the RA will not like them too much, it is pretty low coming from a Corolla. You are planning on test driving this right????????
Don't buy until you're satisfied it fits you.

 

Actually, I did test drive it briefly. I just wasn't in it quite long enough to get a proper opinion on it. My problem isn't how high I sit so much as how much room there is for my legs and my shoulders. If it's longer and wider than my Corolla, then it works just fine for me. If nothing else, I believe I can raise the seat somewhat. Hopefully the fabric the seats are upholstered with are those newer fabrics which are supposed to breathe better and keep you from getting too warm and uncomfortable.

 

Time to hit the dealer again and test drive for 20-30 mins, hit the freeways, back roads, bumps, on ramps, etc. Mimic your daily drive as much as possibe. Over that amount of time you should have a good feel for the car. The dealer will take you wherever you need to test drive it to get the sale, they may not like it, but remember, no cooling off period.