Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (Evolution IV or 'Evo IV') was a highly specialized, homologation special road car based on the Lancer platform, designed for rallying. It competed in a niche but highly prestigious segment against cars like the Subaru Impreza WRX STi and Ford Escort RS Cosworth.
Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STi (GC8), Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Toyota Celica GT-Four, Audi S2 Quattro.
Features Vehicle:
Advanced All-Wheel Drive System (ACD/AYC), potent turbocharged 4G63 engine, robust chassis, rally-inspired aerodynamics, lightweight construction.
Features Manual:
Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information, enabling owners and independent workshops to perform complex repairs and diagnostics accurately. Crucial for maintaining the performance and longevity of this specialized vehicle.
Coverage:
Engine, Drivetrain (4WD System, Transmission), Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Fuel System, Electrical System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Bodywork, HVAC, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Repair Procedures
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine Mechanical, Turbocharging System, Fuel Injection System (ECI-Multi), Ignition System, Emission Control System, Lubrication System, Cooling System
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual Transmission (5-speed), Transfer Case, Front & Rear Differentials, Active Center Differential (ACD), Super Active Yaw Control (S-AYC)
Chassis Systems:
Front & Rear Suspension (MacPherson Struts, Multi-link), Steering System (Power Assisted Rack & Pinion), Braking System (Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs), ABS System
Electrical Systems:
Wiring Diagrams, ECU Pinouts, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Starting & Charging System
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Coolant Flushes, Brake Fluid Replacement, Belt Inspections & Replacements, Air Filter Service
Repair Procedures:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhaul, Differential Service, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Caliper Rebuild, Turbocharger Rebuild/Replacement, Fuel Injector Servicing, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Replacement
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic Flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems. Includes DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed torque specifications, tolerances, and diagnostic procedures typically used by dealership technicians.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-Valve, Turbocharged, Intercooled
Displacement:
1997cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Horsepower:
276 PS (272 hp / 203 kW) @ 6,000 RPM (JDM spec)
Torque:
350 Nm (258 lb-ft) @ 3,000 RPM (JDM spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) with Electronic Control Unit (ECU)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Octane Recommended)
Oil Capacity:
4.0 Liters (4.2 US Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Capacity:
7.0 Liters (7.4 US Quarts)
Ignition System:
Electronic Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
N/A (Manual transmission was standard for Evo IV)
Drivetrain Configuration:
Full-Time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Super Active Yaw Control (S-AYC)
Acd Operation:
Electronically controlled multi-plate clutch system to distribute torque between front and rear axles based on driving conditions.
Ayc Operation:
Hydraulically controlled torque-vectoring rear differential to improve cornering agility and stability.
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Consult manual for specific Mitsubishi recommendations)
Transfer Case Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Consult manual for specific Mitsubishi recommendations)
Front Differential Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Consult manual for specific Mitsubishi recommendations)
Manual Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 Liters (2.6 US Quarts)
Length:
4,350 mm (171.3 in)
Width:
1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
1,415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase:
2,600 mm (102.4 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,380 kg (3,042 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
N/A (Not typically specified in manual, but implied by component strength)
Crash Test Ratings:
No official NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings available for this specific model year and market due to its niche homologation status and era of production.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Active Center Differential (ACD), Super Active Yaw Control (S-AYC)
Passive Safety Features:
Reinforced Chassis Structure, Front Airbags (Driver and Passenger), Seatbelt Pretensioners
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM Radio with Cassette Player and CD Changer compatibility (optional). Speaker system typically 4-6 speakers.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, ACD, AYC. No electronic stability control (ESC) or traction control (TCS) as found in modern vehicles.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No factory Bluetooth, USB, or auxiliary inputs)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-5,000 miles) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe use recommends more frequent changes).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 100,000 km (60,000 miles) or 5-7 years (Critical component; failure causes severe engine damage).
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Depending on type (e.g., iridium), typically 80,000-100,000 km (50,000-60,000 miles). Check manual for specific plug recommendations.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (Consult manual for specific viscosity and temperature range recommendations).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Check manual for exact specification).
Common Problems:
Early turbocharger failure (if poorly maintained), head gasket issues (especially with increased boost), ACD/AYC pump failure, worn engine mounts, minor electrical gremlins, rust in wheel arches and sills.
Maintenance Notes:
Requires diligent adherence to maintenance schedules, particularly regarding oil changes, timing belt, and fluid checks for the advanced drivetrain systems.
Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a strong motorsports heritage, particularly in World Rally Championship (WRC) with the Lancer Evolution, which was developed from its rally racing program.
Evolution Series:
The Lancer Evolution (Evo) series began in 1992 as a homologation special for Group A rally racing. The Evo IV, introduced in 1996 for the 1998 model year, represented a significant chassis and aerodynamic evolution from the previous generations.
Production Years Model:
1996-1998
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Key Milestones:
Introduction of the first generation Evo (I-III) in 1992, further development for rally homologation led to the Evo IV with significantly revised suspension geometry, engine management, and the introduction of AYC.
Motorsport Success:
The Lancer Evolution platform, including the Evo IV, achieved significant success in the World Rally Championship, cementing its reputation as a performance icon.
Performance Reviews:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its incredible grip, handling, and potent powertrain, often outperforming more expensive sports cars.
