Market Segment:
Performance Rally Homologation Special / Sports Sedan
Key Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STi, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Toyota Celica GT-Four
Rally Heritage:
Directly derived from Mitsubishi's World Rally Championship (WRC) lineage.
AWD System:
Advanced Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) evolution, including Active Yaw Control (AYC).
Engine Technology:
Legendary 4G63 engine with robust internals and significant tuning potential.
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, mechanics, and tuners seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance, repair, and modification.
Powertrain Engine:
4G63 (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged I4) engine diagnostics, overhaul, performance tuning, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control.
Powertrain Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (Type R/RS/GSR variants), clutch system, drivetrain components (front/rear differentials, transfer case, driveshafts), AYC (Active Yaw Control) system.
Chassis Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, multi-link rear suspension, spring rates, damper specifications, alignment procedures, bush and ball joint replacement.
Chassis Brakes:
Front Brembo opposed-piston calipers, rear single-piston calipers, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics, brake fluid specifications, rotor and pad replacement, hydraulic system bleeding.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, ECU (Engine Control Unit) pinouts, sensor diagnostics (MAP, TPS, Crankshaft Position, Knock), starter, alternator, battery, lighting system, horn, wipers, power windows.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, seats, dashboard, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system, door mechanisms, exterior lighting.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Fault code retrieval, diagnostic procedures for engine, transmission, AYC, and ABS systems, common issues and their resolutions.
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, including cylinder head disassembly/assembly, piston and connecting rod installation, crankshaft bearing replacement, camshaft timing.
Turbocharger Service:
Turbocharger inspection, installation, and diagnosis. Oil and coolant line routing.
Suspension And Steering:
Strut and shock absorber replacement, control arm bushing replacement, wheel bearing replacement, power steering system diagnosis and repair.
Transmission Rebuild:
Detailed steps for disassembling, inspecting, and reassembling the 5-speed manual transmission. Gear selection and synchro ring replacement.
Brake System Maintenance:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake line replacement, bleeding procedures, master cylinder and booster testing.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Using wiring diagrams to diagnose electrical faults, sensor testing, actuator testing, ECU troubleshooting.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive (from routine maintenance and adjustments to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics).
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, Intercooled Turbocharged
Displacement:
1997 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower Evo Iv:
280 PS (276 hp; 206 kW) @ 6500 rpm (JDM Spec)
Torque Evo Iv:
352 Nm (259 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (JDM Spec)
Horsepower Evo V:
280 PS (276 hp; 206 kW) @ 6500 rpm (JDM Spec)
Torque Evo V:
373 Nm (275 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (JDM Spec)
Fuel Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Fuel Pump
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Unleaded Recommended)
ECU Type:
Proprietary Mitsubishi ECU
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-5,000 miles) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe use may require more frequent changes).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 80,000-100,000 km (50,000-60,000 miles) or 5-7 years, crucial due to interference engine design.
Engine Oil Specification:
10W-30 or 5W-30 API SG/SH/SJ rated synthetic or semi-synthetic oil.
Coolant Specification:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with proper corrosion inhibitors, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85 gear oil for the manual transmission. AYC/transfer case may require specific fluids; consult manual for exact specifications.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 high-temperature brake fluid.
Known Issues Engine:
Cracked cylinder head (especially on modified engines), turbo seal failure (leading to smoking), connecting rod bearing wear at high mileage/power levels.
Known Issues Ayc:
Failure of AYC pump, sensor faults, leaks in the hydraulic system.
Known Issues Corrosion:
Rusting in common areas like wheel arches, sills, and around the battery tray, especially in regions with salt exposure.
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi Motors has a long and storied history in motorsport, particularly in rallying with the Lancer platform.
Evolution Iv Introduction:
Launched in August 1996, featuring a significant redesign with a new body and enhanced AYC system.
Evolution V Introduction:
Launched in January 1998, a facelift and performance upgrade over the Evo IV, featuring wider track, larger wheels, improved aerodynamics, and a torque-enhanced engine.
Production Period:
Evo IV: 1996-1998; Evo V: 1998-1999
Key Variants:
GSR (Grand Sport Racing) - luxury sport trim, RS (Rally Sport) - stripped-down, lightweight, homologation special.