🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer Evolution III

Model Code:

CE9A

Chassis Code:

CE9A

Generation:

Third Generation

Production Years:

1995-1996

👋 Introduction

Market Niche:

Performance homologation special for rally racing (Group A)

Competitors:

Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Toyota Celica GT-Four, Ford Escort RS Cosworth

Rally Heritage:

Directly derived from Mitsubishi's successful WRC Lancer Evolution platform

Performance Focus:

Engineered for high performance, handling, and durability

Advanced Aero:

Aggressive aerodynamic body kit, large rear wing for increased downforce

AWD Technology:

Sophisticated All-Wheel Drive system with Active Yaw Control (AYC)

Interior:

Often featured Recaro sport seats, MOMO steering wheel, and performance-oriented gauges

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Manual (WSM)

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Page Count:

Comprehensive (estimated 1000+ pages for a full WSM)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

4G63T (2.0L DOHC MIVEC Turbocharged Inline-4)

Transmission:

5-speed manual

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Yaw Control (AYC)

Suspension:

Front: MacPherson strut; Rear: Multi-link

Brakes:

Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Discs

Steering:

Power-assisted rack and pinion

Electrical:

Full wiring diagrams, ECU, sensors, lighting, charging system, starting system

Body:

Body panel removal, alignment, structural repairs, interior trim, glass

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:

HVAC system operation, diagnosis, and repair

Fuel System:

Fuel injection, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan clutch

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Repair:

Component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-I), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing

Engine Rebuild:

Engine disassembly, inspection, cleaning, assembly, torque specifications, clearances

Transmission Overhaul:

Transmission disassembly, inspection, repair, and assembly

Suspension Alignment:

Alignment specifications, adjustment procedures

Brake System Service:

Brake pad replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures

Electrical Component Testing:

Testing of alternators, starters, ignition coils, sensors, actuators

Turbocharger Service:

Turbocharger inspection, maintenance, and potential repair guidance

Active Yaw Control Service:

Diagnosis and potential adjustment procedures for AYC system components

Depth:

In-depth, professional level coverage suitable for experienced technicians and dedicated enthusiasts

Detail Level:

Detailed step-by-step instructions, diagrams, specifications, and torque values

Diagnostic Tools:

Information to support the use of specialized diagnostic tools and equipment

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable (depending on PDF creation)

Printability:

Printable for physical reference

Quality Description:

Professional quality, in-depth, detailed service manual

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

4G63T

Engine Type:

2.0L DOHC 16-valve Inline-4 with Turbocharger and Intercooler

Bore X Stroke:

85.0 mm x 88.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1

Valvetrain:

MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) on intake camshaft

Horsepower Ps:

270 PS @ 6,500 rpm (JDM spec)

Torque Nm:

314 Nm (231 lb-ft) @ 3,000 rpm (JDM spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded premium gasoline (95 RON or higher recommended)

Cooling Type:

Water-cooled

Turbocharger Model:

Mitsubishi TD05H-16G (typical)

ECU:

Engine Control Unit (ECU)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual

Optional Transmission:

N/A (Manual only)

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary, but optimized for performance

Clutch:

Hydraulic, multi-plate clutch

Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4 or GL-5 (check manual for specific viscosity, e.g., 75W-90)

Drivetrain Type:

Full-time 4WD with AYC (Active Yaw Control)

Center Differential:

Viscous coupling center differential

Rear Differential:

Mechanical limited-slip differential (LSD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,300 mm (169.3 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,770 mm (69.7 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,405 mm (55.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,600 mm (102.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,260 kg (2,778 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Approx. 1,500 kg (3,307 lbs)

Wheel Size:

15-inch or 16-inch alloy wheels

Tire Size:

205/60R15, 205/55R15, or 205/50R16 (depending on market and spec)

Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

N/A (Vehicle sold before standardized crash testing became prevalent and mandatory in many markets for this specific model year)

Active Features:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Active Yaw Control:

Active Yaw Control (AYC) enhances cornering stability and traction

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags (optional in some markets)

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners

Chassis Construction:

Reinforced chassis for enhanced structural integrity and occupant protection

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic audio system with cassette player and AM/FM radio. CD player optional in some configurations.

Driver Assistance Features:

Primary driver assistance is the mechanical and electronic integration of the AWD and AYC systems, focusing on enhancing grip and stability.

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports were standard. Upgrades are common for enthusiasts.

Engine Management System:

ECU controls fuel injection, ignition timing, boost pressure, and MIVEC operation based on sensor inputs.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult the manual for specifics.

Timing Belt Interval:

Crucial interval, typically around 80,000-100,000 km (50,000-60,000 miles). Refer to manual for exact mileage and to replace water pump concurrently.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies based on plug type, but typically every 40,000-80,000 km (25,000-50,000 miles).

Engine Oil Type:

High-performance synthetic oil, e.g., 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40. Consult manual for exact viscosity and API rating.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron-II or equivalent ATF, or specific power steering fluid (check manual).

Engine Wear:

Potential for valve seat wear, piston ring wear, and turbocharger seal leaks with high mileage or aggressive use. Regular oil changes are critical.

Ayc System:

AYC pump and differential can develop issues, often related to fluid contamination or seal failures. Diagnostics are crucial.

Rust:

As with many cars of this era, bodywork, especially around wheel arches, sills, and the rear subframe, can be prone to rust.

Clutch Wear:

The performance-oriented clutch can wear out faster with aggressive driving.

Electrical Gremlins:

Age-related degradation of wiring insulation and connectors can lead to intermittent electrical issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mitsubishi has a strong motorsport heritage, particularly in rallying, with the Lancer Evolution line being a direct beneficiary of this experience.

Evolution Line:

The Lancer Evolution series began in 1992 as a homologation special for Group A rally racing. Each generation built upon the previous one, improving technology and performance.

Evolution Iii Development:

The Evo III (CE9A) was an evolution of the Evo II, featuring aerodynamic improvements, a more powerful engine, and enhanced chassis rigidity.

Production Location:

Japan

Rally Success:

The Lancer Evolution platform was highly successful in the World Rally Championship (WRC), with Tommi Mäkinen winning four consecutive drivers' titles from 1996 to 1999.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorsport Accolades:

The Lancer Evolution platform is synonymous with rally success, forming the basis for multiple WRC championship-winning cars. While the Evo III itself may not have specific 'car of the year' awards, its lineage is exceptionally decorated.

Performance Ratings:

Consistently rated by automotive journalists and enthusiasts as one of the best-handling and performing all-wheel-drive performance sedans of its era.