Market Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan / Rally Homologation Special
Primary Competitors Era:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Toyota Celica GT-Four, Audi S2 Coupe, Lancia Delta Integrale.
Vehicle Focus:
Tuned for rally performance, advanced all-wheel-drive system, powerful turbocharged engine.
Target Audience:
Mitsubishi dealership technicians, independent repair shops, and knowledgeable enthusiasts for maintenance, repair, and diagnostics.
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, transmission (manual & automatic), drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, body electrical, climate control, body repair, diagnostics, troubleshooting.
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, routine inspections, major repairs, component overhauls, diagnostic procedures, electrical system troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, body panel replacement, interior trim removal/installation, HVAC system service.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers detailed diagnostic procedures, specifications, and rebuild instructions for all major systems.
Estimated Page Count:
Likely over 1500 pages (typical for official factory service manuals of this era covering multiple variants).
Manual Type:
Official Factory Service & Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, inspection, measurement, and reassembly procedures for cylinder block, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, connecting rods, timing components, and lubrication system.
Engine Electrical:
ECM (Engine Control Module) diagnosis, sensor testing, actuator testing (fuel injectors, ignition coils), starter system, charging system, emission control systems (catalytic converter, EVAP).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual and optional automatic transmission service, clutch system, front and rear differentials, transfer case, driveshafts, CV joints, and the AYC/ADC system's hydraulic and electronic components.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, springs, control arms, bushings), steering rack, power steering pump, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Brake system components (master cylinder, brake booster, calipers, rotors, pads), parking brake, ABS system components and troubleshooting.
Body Chassis:
Body panel replacement, door/hood/trunk mechanisms, interior trim removal, glass replacement, structural repair guidance, chassis codes and identification.
Electrical Systems:
Complete wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, door locks, audio system, climate control, fuse and relay locations and functions.
Diagnostic Charts:
Detailed troubleshooting flowcharts for common symptoms and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of all fastener torque specifications for engine, chassis, and body components.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnosis of electrical faults using multimeters and wiring diagrams.
Engine Rebuilding:
Step-by-step instructions for complete engine overhauls, including machining specifications and component clearances.
Transmission Overhaul:
Detailed guides for rebuilding both manual and automatic transmissions, including gear train disassembly and reassembly.
Emissions Control:
Information on the vehicle's emission control systems, diagnostic procedures, and component testing.
Engine Family:
Mitsubishi Sirius / 4G63T
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-Valve, turbocharged, intercooled
Displacement Evo Iv:
1997 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower Evo Iv Jdm:
280 PS (276 hp) at 6,500 rpm (Gothic/280 PS limit)
Torque Evo Iv Jdm:
352 Nm (260 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm
Displacement Evo V:
1997 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower Evo V Jdm:
280 PS (276 hp) at 6,500 rpm (Gothic/280 PS limit)
Torque Evo V Jdm:
377 Nm (278 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm
Boost Pressure Control:
Electronic boost control (ECU controlled variable wastegate)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Port Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (Octane Rating 95-98 RON / 91+ AKI recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with coil-on-plug or distributor (depending on specific sub-model/market)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change. Specific grade: API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-30 / 10W-40 recommended (refer to manual for climate specific grades).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Type Evo Iv:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (W5M51)
Transmission Type Evo V:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag V5M31-12J)
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (V4A51) was available on some standard Lancer models, but rare/unavailable on performance Evo variants.
Drivetrain:
Advanced All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system with Active Yaw Control (AYC) on Evolution IV and Active Driver Control (ADC) on Evolution V (evolution of AYC).
Transfer Case Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific grade (e.g., Mitsubishi Diaqueen LSD Gear Oil 80W-90 or equivalent GL-5 specification is common for LSD equipped units).
Rear Differential Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific grade (e.g., Mitsubishi Diaqueen LSD Gear Oil 80W-90 or equivalent GL-5 specification is common for LSD equipped units).
Length Evo Iv:
4,350 mm (171.3 in)
Width Evo Iv:
1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height Evo Iv:
1,415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase Evo Iv:
2,600 mm (102.4 in)
Length Evo V:
4,350 mm (171.3 in)
Width Evo V:
1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height Evo V:
1,415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase Evo V:
2,600 mm (102.4 in)
Curb Weight Evo Iv:
Approx. 1,360 kg (2,998 lbs)
Curb Weight Evo V:
Approx. 1,380 kg (3,042 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to VIN plate/manual for specific GVWR.
Wheel Size Evo Iv:
17 x 7.5 inches (standard)
Tire Size Evo Iv:
215/45R17 (standard)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Wheel Size Evo V:
17 x 8.0 inches (standard)
Tire Size Evo V:
225/45R17 (standard)
Wheel Bolt Pattern Evo V:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
NHTSA Crash Test Rating:
Not directly tested or rated by NHTSA in the US for these specific JDM models. Comparable vehicles of the era typically lacked advanced safety features.
IIHS Crash Test Rating:
Not directly tested or rated by IIHS for these specific JDM models.
ABS:
Standard on most EVO IV and V models.
AWD System:
Advanced All-Wheel Drive with driver-adjustable settings and AYC/ADC for enhanced traction and handling.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags were standard on most models.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts. Pre-tensioners may be present.
Chassis Construction:
Reinforced chassis and safety cage for rally homologation requirements.
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player and CD changer capability (optional). Limited by era, focus is on performance driving.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, AYC/ADC are the primary advanced systems for the time. No electronic stability control (ESC) or traction control systems as known today.
Connectivity Features:
None beyond basic audio input (cassette).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-5,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first. More frequent under spirited driving or track use.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 30,000-50,000 km (20,000-30,000 miles) depending on plug type (e.g., iridium, platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical interval, typically 90,000-100,000 km (50,000-60,000 miles) or 5-7 years. The manual will provide precise interval and related component replacement (tensioner, idlers, water pump).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation based on system type).
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual, typically ATF Dexron II/III or specific Mitsubishi power steering fluid.
Engine Reliance:
Early models of the 4G63T can be susceptible to cracked cylinder heads or connecting rod failure if consistently operated outside optimal parameters or with insufficient cooling/lubrication.
Ayc System:
AYC/ADC hydraulic pumps and accumulators can fail over time, leading to system malfunction. The manual will detail diagnostic and repair procedures.
Turbocharger:
Turbocharger seals can degrade, leading to oil consumption or boost leaks. Regular maintenance and proper warm-up/cool-down procedures are vital.
Clutch:
Clutch wear is typical for performance vehicles; the manual will cover clutch inspection, replacement, and related system maintenance.
Brand Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a strong heritage in motorsports, particularly rallying, with the Lancer Evolution series being a direct beneficiary of World Rally Championship (WRC) development.
Evo Iv Introduction:
Introduced in August 1996 as a significant redesign from the Evo III, featuring a new chassis and updated technology like AYC.
Evo V Introduction:
Introduced in January 1998, featuring a wider body, larger wheels, revised suspension, and improved torque, along with the evolution of AYC to ADC.
Production Location:
Japan (Mizushima Plant).
Production Volume:
Limited production runs, highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors.
Motorsport Legacy:
The Lancer Evolution (including the IV and V) is a highly decorated vehicle in the World Rally Championship, earning numerous driver and manufacturer titles.
Automotive Press:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its exceptional handling, grip, and performance, often outperforming more expensive sports cars.
Homologation:
Developed specifically for WRC Group A homologation, dictating many of its technical specifications and features.