Segment:
Homologation Special / Performance Rally-Bred Sedan
Reputation:
Iconic status in rallying (WRC) and enthusiast circles for its performance, handling, and raw driving experience.
Key Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Lancia Delta Integrale Evoluzione.
Performance:
Advanced all-wheel-drive system, powerful turbocharged engine, sophisticated active differentials (AYC).
Design:
Aggressive styling, functional aerodynamics, lightweight construction.
Engine:
4G63T (2.0L DOHC MIVEC Turbocharged) - including diagnostics, overhaul, tuning, and emissions control
Transmission:
5-speed Manual (W5M51) and optional 6-speed Manual (Getrag 6-speed found in RS models), including clutch, gearbox overhaul, and drivetrain components
Suspension:
Front MacPherson strut with anti-roll bar, Rear multi-link independent suspension with anti-roll bar; includes damper, spring, bushing, and alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front and Rear ventilated disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and AYC (Active Yaw Control) system diagnostics and repair
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion, steering components, and related hydraulic systems
Electrical:
Full wiring diagrams, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and TCU (Transmission Control Unit) information, lighting, ignition system, charging system, starting system, instrumentation, and accessories
Body And Chassis:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, bumpers, body repair, rust prevention, and structural integrity
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump, and coolant specifications
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, fuel tank, and fuel pressure regulation
Exhaust System:
Manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and pipework specifications
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups, and inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, error code interpretation
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step procedures for complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, and bodywork
Diagnostics:
Detailed procedures for using diagnostic tools, reading sensor data, and identifying fault sources
Specifications And Tolerances:
Precise measurements, clearances, torque specifications, and material requirements for all components
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and component-level repair.
Configuration:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged, intercooled
Displacement:
1997 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Valve Train:
MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) system
Horsepower Ps Eu:
276 PS (272 bhp; 203 kW) @ 6500 rpm (JDM/European Spec)
Torque Nm Eu:
373 Nm (275 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (JDM/European Spec)
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05H-16G (or similar variant depending on specific market)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Bosch fuel injectors
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (95 RON or higher recommended)
ECU Type:
ECU controlled ignition and fuel systems, specific model ECU part numbers can be found within the manual.
Crash Test Data:
Specific official crash test ratings for this era may vary by region. Consult the manual for any chassis or safety structure reinforcement details.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ayc:
Standard Active Yaw Control (AYC) system for enhanced cornering stability.
AWD:
Advanced electronically controlled All-Wheel Drive system.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners for front occupants.
Body Construction:
Reinforced body structure for impact absorption.
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM stereo with cassette player and CD player (optional), typically 4-6 speakers. Aftermarket head unit compatibility is common.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level.
Traction Control:
Integrated within the AWD and AYC systems, not a separate traction control button in the conventional sense.
Bluetooth:
Not available in factory specification for this model year.
Usb:
Not available in factory specification for this model year.
Oil Change Engine:
Every 5,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe use). Consult manual for specific intervals based on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 km or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 km (Platinum tipped recommended).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first. Crucial to follow this interval due to interference engine design.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SH, or SJ; ILSAC GF-II or GF-III; Viscosity: 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for temperature-specific recommendations).
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
Approx. 4.5 L (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors).
Transmission Fluid Type 5Mt:
API GL-4 or GL-5; SAE 75W-90 (Manual Transmission fluid, check manual for specific Mitsubishi recommendation).
Transmission Fluid Capacity 5Mt Liters:
Approx. 2.3 L
Transfer Case Fluid Type:
API GL-5; SAE 75W-90 (Gear oil, consult manual for specific Mitsubishi recommendation).
Transfer Case Fluid Capacity Liters:
Approx. 0.7 L
Rear Differential Fluid Type:
API GL-5; SAE 75W-90 (Gear oil, consult manual for specific Mitsubishi recommendation).
Rear Differential Fluid Capacity Liters:
Approx. 1.4 L (standard rear diff), AYC models may differ. Consult manual.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (high-performance synthetic brake fluid recommended).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF (Dexron II/III or equivalent) or specific Mitsubishi power steering fluid.
Engine Reliability:
Generally robust, but prone to issues if maintenance is neglected. Common concerns include head gasket failure (due to high boost), turbocharger wear, and fuel injector clogging.
Ayc System:
AYC pump and sensor failures can occur, leading to warning lights and loss of differential control. Regular fluid changes and system checks are advised.
Rust:
Can be susceptible to rust, particularly in the sills, wheel arches, and floor pans, especially in areas with road salt. Thorough inspections are vital.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and dampers can wear over time, affecting handling and alignment. Performance-oriented driving can accelerate wear.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring and connectors can develop issues, leading to intermittent problems with various systems.
Rally Success:
Direct lineage from Mitsubishi's highly successful World Rally Championship (WRC) campaigns.
Previous Generation:
Evolution V (Evo 5)
Next Generation:
Evolution VII (Evo 7)
E6 Updates:
Wider track, improved aerodynamics (larger rear spoiler, front bumper vents), revised suspension geometry, lighter engine components, enhanced AYC system.
Production Period:
1999-2001
Manufacturing Plant:
Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Japan
Special Editions:
Tommi Makinen Edition (TME) - a highly sought-after variant with specific mechanical and cosmetic upgrades.