Positioning:
High-performance rally homologation special, iconic JDM icon
Competitors Evo4:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Lancia Delta Integrale
Competitors Evo5:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI (GC8 chassis), Toyota Celica GT-Four
Performance Focus:
Designed for rally racing homologation, emphasizing advanced AWD and turbocharged performance
Rally Legacy:
Direct descendant of Mitsubishi's successful WRC Lancer Evolution cars
Engine:
Comprehensive engine overhaul, diagnostics, tuning, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, emission control systems (e.g., ACD, AYC)
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, diagnostics, clutch, driveline, transfer case, differentials (front, rear, ACD)
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, hydraulic components, ABS, brake rotor and pad replacement, bleeding procedures
Electrical Electronics:
Full electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, ignition, instrument cluster, ECU diagnostics, SRS (Airbag) system
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair, interior trim removal/installation, glass replacement, chassis specifications, corrosion protection
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) information, sensor testing, actuator testing, special tool usage
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (factory-level detail for professional technicians)
Engine Displacement Evo4:
2.0 Liters (1997cc)
Engine Configuration Evo4:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, Turbocharged
Horsepower Evo4:
280 PS (276 hp) @ 6,500 rpm (Japanese Domestic Market, Gentlemen's Agreement)
Torque Evo4:
350 Nm (258 lb-ft) @ 3,000 rpm
Horsepower Evo5:
280 PS (276 hp) @ 6,500 rpm (Japanese Domestic Market, Gentlemen's Agreement)
Torque Evo5:
373 Nm (275 lb-ft) @ 3,000 rpm (Increased torque over EVO IV)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel System Evo5:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), larger turbocharger, improved intercooler
Engine Code Evo5:
4G63T (Revised)
Engine Displacement Evo5:
2.0 Liters (1997cc)
Engine Configuration Evo5
Engine Configuration Evo5:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, Turbocharged
Transmission Type Evo4:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type Evo5:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type Evo4 Optional:
None (Manual exclusively for performance models)
Transmission Type Evo5 Optional:
None
AWD System Evo4:
Active Center Differential (ACD), Twin-Plate Clutch LSD (Front), Helical LSD (Rear)
AWD System Evo5:
Active Center Differential (ACD), Twin-Plate Clutch LSD (Front), Helical LSD (Rear) - enhanced grip and torque distribution
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Primarily Japanese market, safety standards evolved)
Active Safety Features:
ACD (Active Center Differential), AYC (Active Yaw Control - later models/optional), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Performance braking systems (e.g., Brembo on some trims)
Passive Safety Features:
SRS Airbags (Driver and Passenger), Reinforced chassis, Sport seats with enhanced bolstering
Infotainment System:
Basic factory radio with cassette player/CD player (depending on trim/market). Focus on performance over luxury tech.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards; primary assistance provided by ACD and AYC for traction and handling.
Connectivity Options:
Basic; typically no advanced connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 km (4,500 miles) or 6 months, more frequent under hard driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 30,000-50,000 km (18,000-30,000 miles) depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2-96 equivalent, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Check manual for specific viscosity based on climate.
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Oil Spec:
Refer to manual for specific manual transmission fluid (MTF) and ACD/rear diff oil specifications. Typically GL-4 for manual gearbox, specialized fluids for ACD/diffs.
Common Issues:
Timing belt failure (if not maintained), turbocharger wear, clutch wear, rust in certain climates, AYC pump failure (if equipped), potential for ringland failure on heavily modified engines.
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi Motors, with a strong lineage in rallying and performance vehicles.
Evo4 Introduction:
Launched in August 1996, featuring a significantly revised chassis, larger intercooler, and improved ACD.
Evo5 Introduction:
Launched in January 1998, with a wider track, revised front bumper for better cooling, larger spoiler, and upgraded engine internals for increased torque.
Production Period Evo4:
August 1996 – August 1998
Production Period Evo5:
January 1998 – January 1999
