[quote name='magius360']
You can probably get a second generation GS for $2500 to $4500. If you want a cheap fast car, go with a first generation Eclipse GSX/Talon TSi AWD/Laser RS Turbo AWD. The turbo first gens go from $1000 (barely running) to $3500 for a really good one.
When they say DSM, they mean Diamond Star Motors. In other words:
90-94 Plymouth Laser
90-99 Eagle Talon
90-99 Mitsubishi Eclipse
All the first gens look basically the same with different taillights/emblems/etc. Same with the second gens. The non-turbo cars are much more reliable than the turbo ones (when left stock), and there are plenty of those aftermarket bodykits. Just please don't spend 5k on a non-turbo, they aren't really worth that much.[/QUOTE]
IMO, the reason why non-turbos are seen as more reliable is because people aren't modding them and racing them like they are the DSMs. Plus, you get these kids who buy a DSM, slap a boost controller on and jack up the PSI and blow their engines and others who try to mod their car when they don't know how to properly tune it.
I think an unmodded and well-maintained 4G63 is as reliable as any other engine out there.
Also, non-turbo Talons, Lasers and Eclipses aren't really considered a DSM since it doesn't have a 4G63 in it.
And the 90-91 DSMs have the flip up headlights, while 92-94 DSMs have the traditional headlights.
You were pretty right about the prices on a 1G. I bought my 91 FWD TSi for $1,000. The alternator had just gone out it in and nuked a lot of the electrical wiring. After spending $300 on that, I had to get the engine rebuilt about a year later; that cost me $1,000. And just recently, I put a new turbo on it, too.
The car itself is in pretty good condition. The paint is pretty good, but there is some oxidation on the passenger side door.