The only difference between the VIII and the IX is the mivec head, 20% larger housing on the 16G turbo, and the front bumper has a new look. Other than those things the car is the same.

If you plan on modding the shit out of the car, buy an 03 and have at it. If you want a daily driver that can go fast with minimal mods buy the IX. Electric blue is the shit!!! Don't get the MR 6 speed if you like going to the drag strip. 5 speed is where its at so you won't have to shift into 5th gear.