2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Wagon, 61k Miles, Needs Nothing But A Driver! on 2040-cars

My wagon (which is the Sportback LS, not the Ralliart) handles great, yet rides well. It’s comfortable, if not luxurious. The 4-speed automatic transmission is very smooth, and doesn’t sap as much power as the auto. did in my old Honda. Due to its fairly tall roof height, flat load floor, and square back end, you can fit a LOT of stuff in the cargo area – more than most SUVs! The split rear seat lets you carry even more, even with 3 passengers. You can carry 8’ long boards or poles without a hitch. What’s amazing is that, due to the engine’s power (and the GREAT 4-wheel disc brakes) even a heavy, full load doesn’t faze the Sportback.

Of course, being Made in Japan means this car is rock solid reliable. The only problem I’ve had was when the “check engine” light came on once for an unknown reason many years ago. The dealer reset it and I was on my way in 2 minutes.

I like the appearance of the Lancer wagon too. People mistake it for a Ford Focus from the front, or a Volvo from the rear. I’ve received compliments over its looks, which I didn’t expect. It has a few, very minor dings in the body, and scratches in the rear bumper from loading music equipment into it, but no major dents. There is a small stain on the roof on the driver’s side, which I have been unable to remove, caused by tree sap (I think). Otherwise the paint is in great shape. The only other flaw to the exterior is a part of the lower right taillight that was cracked and glued back together. There are no rips or stains in the interior. See the many large pictures of my Sportback at this link.

If you are looking for an affordable, used compact wagon there are very few choices nowadays. The later (2012-2014) Lancer Sportback is a completely different animal, and doesn’t have the room or the performance of this Sportback. The other competition in its price range (the Ford Focus or the Hyundai) is much slower, with mediocre brakes and iffy reliability. You could pay more for the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CRV, but they would be slower too, and certainly don’t handle or brake nearly as well as the Sportback. Compare and you will see that the Sportback is an excellent value.

TERMS: Cash or bank cashier’s check only. Feel free to make me a reasonable offer. I will NOT ship the Sportback, although you can feel free to arrange your own shipping for it after payment has arrived. Yes, you can test drive it before buying but it may not be registered in a week or two, so get here soon or you will have to settle for just a drive around my neighborhood. Scam emails, ridiculous lowball offers, and “is it still available” mails will be ignored – if you see this ad online it is still available! My Sportback is sold “as-is” with no warranty, although it undoubtedly has PLENTY of life left in it.

Well, that’s it for my ad. I think I’ve covered everything, but if not feel free to write me with questions. I can accept texts (from serious buyers only) on my iphone at 9084330769. For independent reviews of the Lancer Sportback, click here and here.

Thanks for looking!