I presume that's the egg EL you're talking about. If it is, I'd get the nod on this one. It has a mean-looking fascia and I like its interior better than the EE90 XL5. If it were the EE100 (93-97) Corolla, I'd pick that most definitely. Your choices are pretty much equal in spec. Many think that the Corolla's suspension is sturdier, but the Lancer is a few years younger. Just prepare around 10-15K for a full underchassis repair at Cruven (shocks, tie rods, ball joints, rack ends and bushings) and engine tune-up (new oil, spark plugs and other parts and adjustments). You shouldn't go wrong with either car.