🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer Evolution VII / VIII

Model Code Evo Vii:

CT9A

Model Code Evo Viii:

CT9A

Platform:

Mitsubishi GS platform (shared with Lancer Cedia)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Performance compact sedan / Rally homologation special.

Reputation:

Legendary status in the rally and performance car community, known for its advanced All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and powerful turbocharged engine.

Rivals:

Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, Honda Civic Type R (in spirit, though different classes).

Powertrain:

Iconic 4G63T 2.0L inline-4 DOHC turbocharged engine, advanced electronically controlled All-Wheel Drive (AYC/ACD).

Chassis:

Reinforced chassis derived from rally homologation requirements, performance-tuned suspension, potent braking systems (often Brembo).

Aerodynamics:

Aggressive body kit, large rear spoiler, functional aerodynamic enhancements for stability at high speeds.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete service, repair, and diagnostic coverage for Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII and VIII models.

Pages:

Extensive (typically 1000+ pages combined or per model, actual count not specified in product info, but inferred by depth of coverage)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English (inferred from common market availability for these models)

Format:

Digital Download (PDF or similar electronic format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (4G63T), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, turbocharger system.

Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (Getrag 5-speed for VII, Getrag 6-speed for VIII), transfer case, front differential, rear differential (Active Yaw Control - AYC, Super Active Yaw Control - Super AYC).

Chassis:

Suspension (MacPherson struts front, multi-link rear), steering system (power-assisted rack and pinion), braking system (Brembo calipers often standard), wheels, tires.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, body control module (BCM), immobilizer system, audio system.

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, testing procedures for sensors and actuators, wiring diagrams.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension replacement, brake caliper servicing.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine specifications, dimensions, electrical specifications, performance data.

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic fluid changes to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, including electronic diagnostics and system calibration).

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Likely PDF; searchable text is highly probable for modern digital manuals.

Quality:

High-resolution digital images and diagrams, typically equivalent to or exceeding OEM print quality.

Binding:

Not applicable (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

Not applicable (Digital Download)

Searchability:

Typically searchable PDF allowing for quick access to specific information.

Version Control:

Represents factory service information for the specified model years; may not include later technical service bulletins (TSBs) unless explicitly stated.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

4G63T

Configuration:

2.0L (1997cc) Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged and intercooled.

Horsepower Evo Vii:

Approx. 280 PS (276 hp / 206 kW) - JDM spec. Varies by market and specific tuning.

Torque Evo Vii:

Approx. 373 Nm (275 lb-ft) - JDM spec.

Horsepower Evo Viii:

Approx. 271 hp (202 kW) in US spec, ~280 PS (206 kW) in other markets. Higher output in RS/MR variants.

Torque Evo Viii:

Approx. 286 lb-ft (388 Nm) in US spec.

Induction:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Turbocharged, Intercooled.

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Coolant Type:

Mitsubishi DIA QUEEN SUPER LONG LIFE COOLANT (or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with long-life additives).

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change.

Oil Specification:

API SG, SH, SJ or ILSAC GF-2, GF-3. Viscosity: SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most conditions.

ECU:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) with sophisticated engine management for turbocharging, ignition timing, and fuel delivery.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Mitsubishi F5M33 (Evo VII - 5-speed manual) / Mitsubishi KM220 (Evo VIII - 6-speed manual - RS/GSR models).

Transmission Type:

No automatic transmission option was typically offered for these performance variants.

All Wheel Drive:

Active Centre Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC) or Super AYC for advanced torque distribution and handling control.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 is common. Refer to manual for specific AYC/ACD fluid.

Manual Transmission Capacity:

Approximately 2.0-2.5 liters (Evo VII) / 2.0-2.3 liters (Evo VIII). Check manual for exact fill level.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4400-4440 mm (173.2-174.8 in)

Width:

Approx. 1770 mm (69.7 in)

Height:

Approx. 1415-1430 mm (55.7-56.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2600 mm (102.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450-1500 kg (3197-3307 lbs) depending on trim and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 1850-1900 kg (4079-4189 lbs).

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 0.43 m³ (15.2 cu ft) - may vary slightly between VII and VIII.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Varies by market and testing agency. In the US, models of this era generally had good, but not perfect, ratings. Check specific NHTSA or IIHS reports for detailed data.

Traction Control:

Standard with advanced AWD systems (ACD/AYC).

Electronic Stability Control:

Available on some later Evo VIII models (often labeled ASTC or similar).

Antilock Brakes:

Standard, often integrated with the AWD system.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags available on some trims.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front seats.

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis and safety cell designed for rally performance and occupant protection.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM CD player with 6 speakers. Higher trims may have premium audio options.

Gauges:

Comprehensive instrument cluster including boost gauge, oil pressure gauge, and voltmeter (depending on trim and market).

Advanced AWD:

Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC) are the primary driver assistance technologies, directly impacting handling dynamics.

Auxiliary Input:

Typically not present on stock units of this era. Aftermarket head unit installations common.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. More frequent changes recommended for spirited driving or track use.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs. Check manual for specific type and interval.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial: Every 60,000-70,000 miles (96,000-112,000 km) or 5 years due to the interference nature of the 4G63T engine.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. High-performance driving may benefit from DOT 4 racing fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron III/Mercon ATF or specific Mitsubishi power steering fluid.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 liters (7.4 US quarts).

Engine Reliability:

The 4G63T is robust, but prone to head gasket failure under high boost or poor tuning. Bearing failure can occur if oil starvation is present. Rod knock is a serious concern.

Turbocharger:

Turbocharger can fail due to oil coking if heat cycles are not managed properly (e.g., extended idling after hard driving). Cracked exhaust manifolds are also a known issue on some generations.

Ayc System:

AYC pump and sensors can fail, leading to warning lights and degraded handling. Fluid leaks are also possible.

Clutch:

Clutch wear is high under spirited driving conditions. Upgraded clutches are common.

Performance Parts:

Popular upgrades include aftermarket ECUs, larger turbochargers, upgraded intercoolers, high-flow fuel injectors, performance exhausts, and upgraded suspension components.

📚 Vehicle History

Motorsport Link:

Direct lineage from Mitsubishi's highly successful World Rally Championship (WRC) Lancer Evolution program.

Evo Vii Introduction:

Introduced in February 2001, featuring a revised engine, transmission, and chassis with focus on improved handling via AYC.

Evo Viii Introduction:

Introduced in January 2003, featuring a larger turbocharger, revised intercooler, stronger gearbox (6-speed on GSR/RS), and Bilstein suspension on some models. Notably, the first Evolution officially sold in the USA.

Production Period:

Lancer Evolution VII: 2001-2002. Lancer Evolution VIII: 2003-2004.

Major Markets:

Japan, Europe, Australia, North America (Evo VIII onwards).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

Consistently praised by automotive media for its rally-bred performance, handling, and AWD system. Often cited as a benchmark for performance sedans.

Track Day Performance:

Widely recognized for its track day capabilities, though it requires careful maintenance and driver input.