🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer Evolution III

Model Nickname:

Evo III

Model Code:

CE9A

Production Years:

1995-1996

Market Segment:

Compact Sports Sedan

Chassis Code:

CE9A

Engine Code:

4G63T

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution III (Evo III) was a homologation special, designed for Group A rally racing. It represented a significant step up in performance and technology over its predecessors, solidifying its reputation as a formidable performance car.

Key Competitors:

Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Toyota Celica GT-Four, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Lancia Delta Integrale.

Performance Focus:

Aggressive aerodynamics, advanced all-wheel-drive system, potent turbocharged engine, stiffened chassis, and performance-oriented suspension.

Value:

Essential for owners seeking to maintain, repair, or restore the iconic Evo III. Provides the official procedures and specifications needed for proper servicing, ensuring longevity and optimal performance of this highly specialized vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Model Coverage:

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution III (CE9A)

Year Coverage:

1995-1996

Geographic Coverage:

Primarily JDM (Japanese Domestic Market), with general applicability for global variants

Estimated Pages:

600-1000 (typical for a comprehensive service manual)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English (likely translated from original Japanese)

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Yes (including disassembly, inspection, assembly, timing belt, pistons, crankshaft, cylinder head, etc.)

Engine Management:

Yes (ECU, sensors, ignition system, fuel injection, emissions control)

Cooling System:

Yes (radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant flow, troubleshooting)

Lubrication System:

Yes (oil pump, oil filter, oil passages, oil pressure)

Fuel System:

Yes (fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank)

Exhaust System:

Yes (manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, O2 sensors)

Transmission Manual:

Yes (gearbox, clutch, shifting mechanism, maintenance, repair)

Transmission Automatic:

Not Applicable (Evo III was exclusively manual transmission)

Drivetrain:

Yes (transfer case, front/rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints)

Suspension Front:

Yes (struts, springs, control arms, sway bar, bushings, geometry)

Suspension Rear:

Yes (multi-link independent, struts, springs, control arms, bushings, geometry)

Steering System:

Yes (power steering pump, rack and pinion, tie rods, steering column)

Brake System:

Yes (front/rear discs, calipers, ABS, brake lines, fluid, parking brake)

Electrical System:

Yes (battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays)

Lighting System:

Yes (headlights, taillights, interior lights, bulb types)

HVAC System:

Yes (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, blower motor, refrigerant)

Body And Chassis:

Yes (structural components, body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass)

Interior Trim:

Yes (dashboard, seats, door panels, carpeting, headliner)

Wheels And Tires:

Yes (wheel torque specifications, tire pressure recommendations)

Routine Maintenance:

Yes (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plugs)

Scheduled Maintenance:

Yes (maintenance schedule, mileage/time-based service)

Troubleshooting:

Yes (diagnostic charts, symptom-based guides, common problems)

Component Removal Installation:

Yes (detailed steps for most major components)

Engine Rebuild:

Yes (comprehensive instructions for full engine overhaul)

Transmission Overhaul:

Yes (for the manual transmission)

Brake System Overhaul:

Yes (caliper rebuild, brake line replacement)

Electrical Diagnostics:

Yes (using wiring diagrams and test procedures)

Suspension Alignment:

Yes (specifications for alignment angles)

Body Repair:

Yes (panel replacement, alignment, basic collision repair guidance)

Depth:

Comprehensive (covers from basic maintenance to major component overhauls and diagnostics)

Diagnostic Focus:

Strong focus on diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting common issues

Unit Of Measurements:

Metric and Imperial units (common for JDM manuals)

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Digital PDF, typically searchable and printable

Quality Assessment:

Generally good quality scans or digital recreations, ensuring readability of diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged and intercooled

Engine Code:

4G63T

Displacement:

1997 cc

Bore X Stroke:

85.0 mm x 88.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1

Horsepower:

270 PS (approx. 266 hp) at 6,000 rpm (JDM spec)

Torque:

30.0 kg-m (approx. 217 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm (JDM spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with electronic control (ECI-Multi)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (Octane Rating typically 95 RON or higher)

Turbocharger:

Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G (or similar variant)

Intercooler:

Air-to-air front-mounted intercooler

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

Not Offered

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Yaw Control (AYC) on some models/markets, mechanical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) front and rear.

Clutch:

Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4310 mm (169.7 in)

Width:

1770 mm (69.7 in)

Height:

1415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2600 mm (102.4 in)

Front Track:

1470 mm (57.9 in)

Rear Track:

1475 mm (58.1 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1300-1350 kg (2866-2976 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not specified in basic product info, but typical for segment

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Not readily available for this era and specific JDM homologation model. Focus was on performance and rally homologation.

ABS:

Yes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) typically standard on higher trims/performance models.

Ayc:

Yes, Active Yaw Control (AYC) was a key feature on the Evolution line, managing torque distribution between the rear wheels for enhanced cornering stability.

Airbags:

Driver airbag typically standard. Passenger airbag was optional or not available on all models.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners

Chassis Construction:

Reinforced chassis and safety cage structure, common for rally homologation.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic factory AM/FM radio and cassette player. Optional CD player might have been available.

Display:

Minimal. Primarily analog gauges for speed, RPM, fuel, and temperature. Warning lights for various systems.

Traction Control:

No dedicated traction control system beyond the AWD and AYC differentials.

Connectivity Features:

None (no Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration)

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-5,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first. More frequent under severe driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-20,000 km (9,000-12,000 miles) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles) for platinum/iridium plugs, or sooner for standard plugs.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 80,000-100,000 km (50,000-60,000 miles) or 5-7 years. Critical due to interference engine design.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles)

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 40,000 km (25,000 miles)

Engine Oil:

API SG/SH or higher, Viscosity 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific temperature ranges)

Transmission Fluid:

API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (for manual transmission)

Coolant:

Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific type)

Engine Wear:

Piston ring wear, valve stem seals, and turbocharger wear can occur with high mileage or aggressive use. The 4G63T is robust but requires diligent maintenance.

Ayc System:

AYC pump and hydraulic lines can be prone to leaks or failure over time. Fluid changes and system checks are important.

Clutch Wear:

Performance clutch upgrades are common, but OEM clutches can wear prematurely with aggressive driving.

Rust Corrosion:

As with many vehicles of this era, especially those used in harsh climates or rally events, rust and corrosion can be an issue in common areas like wheel arches, sills, and undercarriage.

Electrical Gremlins:

Older wiring harnesses and connections can sometimes develop issues leading to intermittent electrical problems.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Mitsubishi Motors has a long history of producing robust and reliable vehicles, with a significant focus on motorsport, particularly rallying, which heavily influenced the Lancer Evolution line.

Evolution Series:

The Lancer Evolution III followed the Evo I and Evo II, building upon their rally-bred technologies. It introduced aerodynamic enhancements and engine refinements that further improved its competitive edge.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

Homologation Purpose:

Developed to meet Group A regulations for the World Rally Championship (WRC).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorsport Legacy:

The Lancer Evolution III was highly successful in rallying, notably winning the 1995 World Rally Championship for Manufacturers with Tommi Mäkinen driving.

Performance Reviews:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its sharp handling, powerful acceleration, and rally-bred performance capabilities.