Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan / Rally Homologation Special
Reputation:
Legendary, iconic status in rally racing and performance tuning communities
Key Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Lancia Delta Integrale Evoluzione
Driving Dynamics:
Exceptional handling, grip, and driver feedback thanks to AWD and advanced chassis design
Engine Technology:
Robust turbocharged inline-4 with advanced intercooling and engine management
Rally Heritage:
Directly derived from Mitsubishi's WRC program, offering a pure, unfiltered driving experience
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, clutch, cooling system, exhaust system, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AYC - Active Yaw Control), front differential, rear differential, driveshafts, transfer case
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (front and rear), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, audio system, power accessories, wiring diagrams, ECU, sensors
Body:
Body structure, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, airbags
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnosis and repair, body panel repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault codes, common issues and solutions
Diagnostics:
Component testing, sensor readings, electrical circuit diagnosis
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical schematics
Engine Code:
4G63T (MIVEC variant not yet introduced)
Configuration:
Turbocharged and Intercooled Inline-4 DOHC 16-valve
Displacement:
1997 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
280 PS (276 hp; 206 kW) at 6,500 rpm (Japanese domestic market 'gentleman's agreement' limit)
Torque:
352 Nm (259 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Twin-Scroll Turbocharger
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)
Type:
Forced lubrication with wet sump
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
N/A (Manual exclusively for Evo 4)
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (Full-time)
Ayc:
Active Yaw Control (AYC) for enhanced cornering stability
Differentials:
Front Helical LSD, Rear Viscous LSD with AYC control
Crash Test Ratings:
Not independently rated by agencies like NHTSA or Euro NCAP for this era, but built to high performance standards.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ayc:
Active Yaw Control contributes to stability under hard cornering
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags (standard)
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell construction
Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-5,000 miles) or 6 months
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 type
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000-100,000 km (56,000-62,000 miles) or 7 years
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Coolant:
Mitsubishi Dia Queen Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with anti-corrosion additives)
Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90 (specific Mitsubishi specification may apply)
Transfer Case Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90 (specific Mitsubishi specification may apply)
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 SAE 80W-90 (or specific Mitsubishi specification)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine:
Cracked cylinder head (under extreme heat/abuse), turbocharger wear, piston ring wear with high mileage
Drivetrain:
AYC pump failure, differential wear (especially rear if abused), gearbox synchro wear
Chassis:
Rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills), worn suspension bushings, brake component wear
Electrical:
Sensor failures (e.g., crank angle sensor), wiring harness degradation over time
Rally Success:
Mitsubishi has a long and illustrious history in World Rally Championship (WRC), winning multiple manufacturer and driver titles.
Predecessors:
Lancer Evolution I, II, and III
Successors:
Lancer Evolution V
Key Changes From Evo3:
Stiffer chassis, revised suspension geometry, larger intercooler, revised AYC system, wider track, updated aerodynamic components.
Manufacturing Plant:
Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
Production Volume:
Estimated 6,000 units (exact figures vary)