Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan / Rally Homologation Special
Positioning:
The Evolution VIII MR (Mitsubishi Racing) was the pinnacle of the Evo VIII line, offering enhanced performance and specific handling upgrades over the standard Evo VIII.
Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, Honda Civic Type R (FN2).
Performance Focus:
Developed from rally racing technology, emphasizing all-wheel drive, turbocharged performance, and agile handling.
Driver Engagement:
Focus on driver feedback, precise controls, and a connected driving experience.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, internal components, timing belt, seals, gaskets, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, sensors, ECU diagnostics and repair.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (6-speed), clutch system, driveline, transfer case, propeller shaft, driveshafts.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, sway bars, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Brake system components (Brembo), hydraulic lines, ABS system, parking brake, rotor and pad replacement, bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column, wheel alignment.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, fuses, relays, comfort systems, diagnostic connectors.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, seats, doors, windows, bumpers, structural components.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system components and service.
Body Electrical:
Power windows, locks, mirrors, audio system, security system.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, symptom-based diagnosis, component testing.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems and components, including torques and clearances.
Rebuilding:
Comprehensive instructions for engine and transmission rebuilding.
Specifications:
Tightening torques, clearances, fluid capacities, pressure specifications.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
4-cylinder, turbocharged, intercooled, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1998 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Horsepower Us Spec:
276 hp @ 6500 rpm (DIN rating, often higher in actual testing)
Torque Us Spec:
289 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with electronic control
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05H-16G turbocharger with intercooler
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 Stars (for 2004 model year in general, specific Evo ratings may vary)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for comparable models in its class)
ABS:
Standard, often with specific performance tuning for Evo.
Traction Control:
Standard (integrated with AWD system).
Electronic Stability Control:
Not standard on all models, but the S-AYC provides similar stability enhancement.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, side airbags (optional/standard depending on region).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners.
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and safety cage design for rally homologation.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe use requires more frequent changes).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years (critical inspection and replacement recommended).
Spark Plugs:
Refer to manual for specific type and interval; platinum or iridium plugs typically last longer.
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended for turbocharged engines, meeting API SN or newer and ACEA A3/B4.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 - 5.0 Liters (4.7 - 5.3 US Quarts) with filter change.
Transmission Fluid:
Manual transmission fluid (MTF) meeting Mitsubishi specification or equivalent (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5 specific, check manual).
Coolant:
Long-life (green or pink) ethylene glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Wear:
Piston ring wear, valve stem seal issues, potential for turbocharger wear if not maintained properly.
Transmission Wear:
Clutch wear is common due to performance driving; synchro wear in the 6-speed transmission can occur with high mileage or hard use.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and ball joints can wear, affecting handling.
Electrical:
Occasional issues with window regulators, immobilizer system glitches.
Motorsport Influence:
Direct lineage from Mitsubishi's WRC (World Rally Championship) Lancer Evolution program.
Evo Viii Mr Distinction:
The 'MR' designation signifies 'Mitsubishi Racing' and denotes specific upgrades over the standard Evo VIII, including Bilstein suspension, specific Enkei wheels, and sometimes revised engine tuning.
Generation Placement:
Eighth generation Lancer Evolution, bridging the gap before the Evo IX.
Production Years:
Evo VIII produced from 2003-2005, MR variant specifically for 2004-2005.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
