>a near perfect lower level mon is better (i.e Has more stats overall) than a very low IV higher level mon.
Generally no. At the same CP and the same IV spread (ie. if you had a 0/0/0 and a 15/15/15 at the same CP), the stats will be roughly equal for most pokemon. (Edited)
>Does a pokemon really go up in base stats that much in just 2.5 levels?
Yes.
>is level also considered in CP calculation?
Level modifies stats and CP is calculated from stats, so indirectly yes.
Here's a solid calculator for stats https://pokemonpvp.club/pvp/iv
There are also numerous spreadsheets you can find on TSR that list the best sets of PvP IVs or calculate your stat product with given IVs.