if 96 get a Nissan Sentra Series III SE.

edge over the Lancer GLXi/GLi

-timing chain
-power folding side mirror
-power antenna
-newer design (introduced 95 while the itlog was way back 93)
-the DOHC engine of Sentra is more flexible and torquier from my experience.

if 97, get the Nissan Sentra SS if not the Super Touring

-Driver's Airbag foregoing the ABS of the SE which is a 96 only model
-bodykits
-foglights