Segment:
Performance Sedan, Rally Homologation Special
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, tuners, owners seeking in-depth repair and maintenance knowledge
Key Rivals:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Toyota Celica GT-Four, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Lancia Delta Integrale
Performance Focus:
Engineered for high performance and rally-inspired driving dynamics
AWD System:
Advanced Active All-Wheel Drive system with adjustable center differential (ACD) on some models/regions
Turbocharged Engine:
Renowned 4G63T engine, a legend in the tuning community
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, turbocharger system, engine management (ECU/ECM)
Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (F5M33), transfer case, viscous coupling unit (VCU), rear differential
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel hubs
Suspension:
Front struts, rear shock absorbers, control arms, anti-roll bars, coil springs, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system (if equipped), brake lines, master cylinder, calipers, pads, rotors
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, aerodynamics (spoiler, splitter), glass, mirrors
Body Interior:
Seats, dashboard, interior trim, carpets, HVAC system, airbags (if equipped), seat belts
Wheels Tires:
Wheel specifications, tire sizes, rotation, balancing
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections
Engine Repair:
Engine removal and installation, cylinder head disassembly and reassembly, piston and connecting rod installation, crankshaft bearing service, timing belt replacement
Transmission Repair:
Transmission disassembly and reassembly, clutch replacement, gearset service, differential overhaul
Brake System Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake bleeding, ABS component diagnosis and replacement
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Strut and shock absorber replacement, control arm bushing replacement, ball joint replacement, power steering pump and rack service
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting wiring issues, component testing, using diagnostic tools, wiring diagram interpretation
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting
Body Repair:
Panel alignment, rust repair, glass replacement, bumper repair and replacement
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics, including ECU/ECM codes and interpretation
Special Tools:
Identification of required special tools for specific procedures
Configuration:
2.0L DOHC 16-valve Turbocharged Inline-4
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Horsepower Gsr:
270 PS (approx. 266 hp) at 6,500 rpm
Torque Gsr:
30.7 kg⋅m (approx. 222 lb-ft) at 5,000 rpm
Horsepower Rs:
250 PS (approx. 247 hp) at 6,000 rpm (often slightly detuned for rally regulations)
Torque Rs:
29.4 kg⋅m (approx. 213 lb-ft) at 5,000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Bosch fuel injectors
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05H-16G turbocharger
Intercooler:
Air-to-air front-mounted intercooler (FMIC)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Liters (4.7 US Quarts) with filter
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 or 10W-40 (API SG or higher)
Coolant Capacity:
6.0 Liters (6.3 US Quarts)
Recommended Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50% solution)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (F5M33)
Transmission Type:
N/A (Manual transmission only for Evolution models)
Drivetrain Configuration:
Full-time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Center Differential (ACD) on GSR, Viscous Coupling Unit (VCU) on RS
Rear Differential:
Mechanical Limited Slip Differential (LSD) on GSR, Viscous LSD on RS
Transmission Oil Capacity:
2.5 Liters (2.6 US Quarts)
Recommended Transmission Oil:
GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil (75W-90 recommended)
Transfer Case Oil Capacity:
0.7 Liters (0.7 US Quarts)
Recommended Transfer Case Oil:
GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil (75W-90 recommended)
Rear Differential Oil Capacity:
1.0 Liters (1.0 US Quarts)
Recommended Rear Differential Oil:
GL-5 Gear Oil (80W-90 recommended, Hypoid Gear Oil)
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 5,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe use may require more frequent changes)
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 km (9,000 - 18,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 km (18,000 - 30,000 miles), depending on plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000 - 100,000 km (56,000 - 62,000 miles) or 5-7 years
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 50,000 km (30,000 miles)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent
Clutch Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Reliability:
Known for robust 4G63T engine, but requires diligent maintenance. Issues can arise from worn valve stem seals, turbocharger wear, and cracked exhaust manifolds under extreme use.
AWD System Maintenance:
VCU and ACD units require regular fluid changes to maintain performance and prevent premature failure.
Rust:
Common rust points include wheel arches, rocker panels, and subframes, especially in regions with road salt.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and wheel bearings can wear over time due to the car's aggressive nature.
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks and thermostat issues can occur, especially if maintenance is neglected.
Motorsport Legacy:
Mitsubishi's extensive rally heritage, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC)
Evo Series Origin:
The Lancer Evolution series was developed to homologate vehicles for Group A racing in the WRC.
Evolution Iii Development:
The Evo III was a significant evolution of the Evo II, featuring aerodynamic enhancements and an improved engine output.
Key Iii Upgrades:
Larger front air dam, side skirts, rear spoiler extension, revised engine management, improved turbocharger efficiency, slight power increase.
Production Period:
August 1995 - August 1996
Production Volume:
Approximately 5,000 units produced in total
Manufacturing Location:
Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture, Japan
