Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (Evo) is a high-performance sports sedan that defined the affordable performance car segment and became a rally homologation special icon. Known for its advanced All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, potent turbocharged engine, and exceptional handling, the Evo attracted enthusiasts worldwide seeking track-day capability and aggressive styling.
Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, Audi S3, Volkswagen Golf R (later generations), BMW M3 (higher price bracket)
Performance Focus:
All-Wheel Drive, turbocharged engine, advanced suspension, robust braking system, lightweight construction
Rally Heritage:
Developed for Group A rally homologation, leading to its aggressive styling and performance-oriented engineering.
Technical Innovation:
Active Yaw Control (AYC), Super AYC, ACD (Active Center Differential) across different generations, showcasing Mitsubishi's focus on dynamic handling.
Model Generations Covered:
Evolution IV (1996-1997), Evolution V (1998-1999), Evolution VI (1999-2001), Evolution VII (2001-2003), Evolution VIII (2003-2005), Evolution IX (2005-2007)
Included Manuals:
1996-2001 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV, V, VI Workshop Service Repair Manual; 2001-2007 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII, VIII, IX Workshop Service Repair Manual
Total Pages Estimated:
4600+
Type:
Comprehensive Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system, turbocharger system, intercooler system, transmission (manual & automatic), clutch, drivetrain (transfer case, differentials), drive shafts, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system (ABS included), wheels, tires, chassis and frame
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instruments, interior electronics, exterior electronics, engine control unit (ECU), power distribution, wiring diagrams, diagnostics, multiplex communication systems (CAN bus for later models)
Bodywork:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, seats, HVAC system, body repair, corrosion protection
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, belt replacement
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), specific system diagnostic procedures, use of diagnostic tools
Installation:
Component replacement procedures, installation guidelines for factory options and accessories
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance and adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical schematics, and bodywork procedures. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic parameters.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-Valve, Turbocharged and Intercooled
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 271 hp to 291 hp (depending on generation and market)
Torque Range:
Approximately 274 lb-ft to 300 lb-ft (depending on generation and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05, TD06, or similar variable geometry turbochargers (depending on generation)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 to 9.0:1 (depending on generation)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag/Mitsubishi), 6-speed Manual (later generations)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (available on some standard Lancer models, less common/desirable on performance Evos)
AWD System:
Full-time All-Wheel Drive with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC) or Super AYC
Transfer Case:
Mechanical front differential, mechanical rear differential, electronically controlled center differential (ACD)
Length Overall:
Approx. 4,350 - 4,490 mm (171.3 - 176.8 inches)
Width Overall:
Approx. 1,770 - 1,810 mm (69.7 - 71.3 inches)
Height Overall:
Approx. 1,430 - 1,450 mm (56.3 - 57.1 inches)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,600 - 2,625 mm (102.4 - 103.3 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,450 - 1,500 kg (3,197 - 3,307 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and market
Crash Test Ratings:
Varies by market and testing agency (e.g., IIHS, NHTSA). Later models generally performed better due to updated safety standards.
AWD System:
Mitsubishi's advanced AWD systems (ACD, AYC, Super AYC) significantly enhance active safety and stability.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Active Traction Control (TCL) often integrated with AWD system
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (standard), side airbags (optional on some models)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory-installed ETR AM/FM stereo with cassette/CD player. Later models may feature upgraded audio systems with more speakers.
Navigation:
Rare factory option, more commonly aftermarket GPS units are installed.
Traction Control System:
Integrated with AWD for enhanced stability and grip.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Original Connectivity:
Basic AM/FM radio, CD player. No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity in original factory configurations.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Enthusiast drivers often adhere to shorter intervals.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical interval, typically every 60,000 miles or 5 years for the 4G63T engine. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
High-performance synthetic oil, typically 10W-40 or 5W-40. Consult manual for specific API service classification.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., green or pink), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, often 75W-90 or 80W-90. Specific viscosity may vary by generation and manufacturer recommendation.
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 gear oil, often 75W-90 or 80W-90 for front and rear differentials. Rear differentials with LSDs may require specific friction modifiers.
Transfer Case Fluid:
Typically the same as transmission fluid, GL-4/GL-5.
Engine:
Head gasket failures (especially with aggressive tuning), turbocharger wear, oil consumption, piston ring issues (7-bolt 4G63 engines), valve seat recession.
Transmission:
Synchro wear (especially 2nd and 3rd gears), clutch wear, differential failures in heavily modified vehicles.
Suspension:
Wear of bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers due to performance driving.
Electrical:
Alternator failures, sensor issues (MAP, MAF, O2), wiring harness degradation.
Brand:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation
Motorsport Legacy:
Long and successful history in World Rally Championship (WRC), dominating in the 1990s with Tommi Mäkinen.
Evo I Iii:
Initial generations focused on rally homologation, less common outside Japan.
Evo Iv Vi:
Introduction of more advanced AWD systems (AYC), wider track, and significant engine tuning. The 'VI' saw the introduction of the 'Tommi Mäkinen Edition' with a titanium-turbine turbocharger.
Evo Vii Ix:
Further refinement of AWD systems (ACD, Super AYC), introduction of 6-speed transmissions, increased engine power and torque, and styling updates reflecting the Lancer platform evolution. Evo IX introduced MIVEC variable valve timing.
Production Start Date:
1992 (for Evo I)
Production Period Covered:
1996-2007 (for manuals in this product)
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan
Car And Driver Best 10:
Frequently appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production run, praised for its performance and value.
Wrc Titles:
Numerous World Rally Championship Manufacturers' and Drivers' titles, cementing its motorsport pedigree.
Performance Metrics:
Consistently praised for acceleration, braking, and handling capabilities.
