Rally Heritage:
Iconic homologation special derived from Mitsubishi's WRC success, built for performance and motorsport.
Key Rivals:
Subaru Impreza WRX STi, Toyota Celica GT-Four, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Audi Quattro.
Performance Focus:
Designed for high-performance driving with advanced AWD, powerful turbocharged engines, and responsive handling.
Advanced AWD:
Features Mitsubishi's innovative Active Yaw Control (AYC) system on certain models, enhancing cornering stability and agility.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (assembly, disassembly, inspection), lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (injection, fuel pump, lines), emission control systems (catalytic converter, EGR), intake system, exhaust system.
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, manual transmission (gearbox overhaul, components), transfer case, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, all-wheel drive system (AYC - Active Yaw Control for relevant models).
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering pump, column), wheel alignment specifications.
Braking Systems:
Front and rear brakes (discs, calipers, pads), hydraulic system (master cylinder, brake lines, fluid), ABS system (sensors, modulator unit).
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses and relays, power windows, power locks, wiper system, horn, instrument cluster, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and sensor diagnostics.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, glass, chassis components, rust prevention, sound deadening.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid change, transmission fluid change, differential fluid change, belt inspection/replacement, air filter replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, turbocharger removal/installation, clutch replacement, transmission overhaul, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, electrical system testing, engine performance diagnostics, AYC system diagnostics.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine bearing clearances, piston ring end gap, valve lash adjustments, wheel bearing pre-load, suspension geometry specifications.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and component specifications.
Engine Type:
2.0L Inline-4 DOHC 16-Valve Turbocharged (4G63/4G63T)
Power Output Evo Iv:
Approx. 280 PS (206 kW) at 6,500 rpm
Torque Output Evo Iv:
Approx. 35 kgm (343 Nm; 253 lb-ft) at 5,000 rpm
Power Output Evo V Vi:
Approx. 280 PS (206 kW) at 6,500 rpm (Japanese spec); higher output in some export markets (e.g., ~290-300 PS in UK/Europe)
Torque Output Evo V Vi:
Approx. 37 kgm (363 Nm; 268 lb-ft) at 5,000 rpm (Japanese spec); higher output in some export markets
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), often with multi-point injection (MPI)
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G (Evo IV), TD05HC-7 (Evo V/VI) or similar Garrett units in some export variants.
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with distributor, coil-on-plug on later models or some variants.
Engine Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Length:
Approx. 4,350 mm (171.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,400 mm (55.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,600 mm (102.4 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,350 kg - 1,450 kg (2,976 - 3,197 lbs) depending on model and trim
Gross Weight:
Varies by model, refer to specific vehicle VIN plate.
Trunk Capacity:
Not a primary focus, typical sedan boot space, approx. 350-400 liters.
Crash Test Data:
Data from this era is less standardized than modern vehicles; typically focused on Japanese domestic market (JDM) specifications.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models, with performance tuning.
Traction Control:
Traction control systems (TCL) and AYC contribute to active safety.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard on most later models (Evo V/VI).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners.
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and safety cell designed for rally homologation requirements.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or 6 months for high-performance driving, or as per manual (e.g., 10,000 km / 12 months).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 80,000-100,000 km (50,000-60,000 miles), crucial due to interference engine design.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically high-performance plugs with specific gap settings.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual, typically a high-quality synthetic 5W-30 or 10W-40 depending on climate and driving conditions.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Reliability:
4G63T is a robust engine but can be sensitive to oil starvation, overheating, and improper maintenance. Connecting rod failures at very high power levels without upgrades.
Ayc System:
AYC pump and associated sensors can be a failure point, often requiring specialized diagnosis and replacement parts.
Rust:
Common to older Japanese performance cars, especially wheel arches, sills, and chassis components. Proper inspection and undercoating are crucial.
Clutch Wear:
Due to performance driving, clutch wear can be accelerated.
Turbocharger Wear:
Turbocharger lifespan depends heavily on maintenance and how the car was driven. Bearing failures, oil leaks are common if neglected.
Rally Success:
Mitsubishi's extensive success in the World Rally Championship (WRC) with Tommi Mäkinen was the primary driver for the Evolution line.
Evo Iv Introduction:
Launched in August 1996, featuring a significantly revised chassis, a new 4G63 engine with twin-scroll turbocharger, and the debut of AYC.
Evo V Introduction:
Launched in January 1998, featured wider bodywork, larger wheels, revised suspension geometry, larger intercooler, and a revised 4G63T engine for increased torque.
Evo Vi Introduction:
Launched in January 1999, introduced a revised turbocharger (larger compressor and improved cooling) and intercooler, improved engine internals, new front bumper design for better airflow, and the special RS/GSR 'Tommi Mäkinen Edition' in 2000.
Production Period:
Evo IV: 1996-1998; Evo V: 1998-1999; Evo VI: 1999-2001
Production Location:
Japan (primarily Mizushima Plant)
