Market Position:
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution V (Evo 5) was a highly acclaimed homologation special, built for rallying. It represented a significant evolution in performance and technology from its predecessors, positioning it as a dominant force in the rally-inspired performance car segment.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with cars like the Subaru Impreza WRX STi, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, and other high-performance, turbocharged, all-wheel-drive sedans. Its advanced AYC (Active Yaw Control) system and robust chassis set it apart.
Key Features:
Aggressive styling with wider fenders, improved aerodynamics, enhanced engine tuning, advanced AYC system, larger intercooler, stiffer chassis, and upgraded braking system.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (Transfer Case, Differentials)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Hydraulic, ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Audio System, Airbag System
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil & Filter Changes, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement, Fluid Checks & Changes
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and Procedures
Repair:
Component Removal & Installation, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Overhaul
Adjustments:
Wheel Alignment, Clutch Adjustment, Handbrake Adjustment
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
1997cc, 16-valve, DOHC, Inline 4-Cylinder, Turbocharged
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Horsepower Ps:
280 PS @ 6500 rpm (Often underestimated, actual output higher)
Horsepower Hp:
276 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque Lb-Ft:
275 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Ignition
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (95-98 RON)
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05H-16G (or similar, specific variant may apply)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transaxle
Transmission Type:
No automatic transmission was offered for the Evo V.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC)
Gear Ratios Example:
Specific ratios vary but optimized for performance driving and rallying.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Specific Mitsubishi fluid recommended)
Transfer Case Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Specific Mitsubishi fluid recommended)
Rear Differential Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 or 75W-90 (Specific Mitsubishi fluid recommended)
Length:
Approx. 4,350 mm (171.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,420 mm (55.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,600 mm (102.4 in)
Track Width Front:
Approx. 1,515 mm (59.6 in)
Track Width Rear:
Approx. 1,505 mm (59.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,350 kg (2,976 lbs) - varies slightly by spec
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified for performance models, but generally around 1700-1800 kg.
Towing Capacity:
Not designed or rated for towing.
Crash Test Ratings:
Vehicle safety standards of the late 1990s applied; specific official ratings like NHTSA/Euro NCAP may not be directly comparable or widely published for this specialized model.
Active Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), AYC (Active Yaw Control), ACD (Active Center Differential), Limited-Slip Rear Differential (Mechanical)
Passive Features:
Driver and Passenger Airbags, Reinforced Safety Cell, Three-Point Seatbelts with Pretensioners
Chassis Enhancements:
Stiffened chassis with increased torsional rigidity compared to standard Lancer models.
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM Stereo with Cassette Player and CD Player (optional). Factory speaker systems were typically modest.
Instrumentation:
Comprehensive gauge cluster including speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, coolant temperature, boost gauge, and warning lights.
Driver Assistance:
Advanced AWD system with ACD and AYC for enhanced traction and cornering stability. ABS is standard.
Connectivity:
Limited connectivity by modern standards; typically only power antenna operation and basic audio input.
Engine Management System:
ECU (Engine Control Unit) with integrated ignition and fuel control, managing turbo boost and engine parameters.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first (more frequent recommended for spirited driving).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000 km (24,000 miles) or as recommended by the manual (specific plug type critical).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 80,000 km (50,000 miles) or 5 years. Crucial for the 4G63T engine; failure is catastrophic.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 10W-50 recommended for performance. Consult manual for exact specifications.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (high-performance fluid recommended for spirited driving).
Power Steering Fluid:
Specific Mitsubishi power steering fluid or Dexron II/III ATF.
Known Issues:
Potential for cracked cylinder heads under extreme heat, turbocharger wear, oil consumption, AYC pump failure, fuel pump failure, and clutch wear.
Common Repairs:
Timing belt replacement, turbocharger rebuild/replacement, clutch replacement, AYC system servicing, engine mount replacement.
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a long history in motorsport, particularly in rallying, with the Lancer Evolution lineage being a direct product of this heritage.
Model Evolution:
The Evo V was the fifth iteration of the performance Lancer, building upon the success of previous generations. It featured significant chassis and aerodynamic improvements, wider track, and enhanced electronics for superior handling.
Production Period:
1998-1999
Production Location:
Japan
Homologation:
Built as a homologation special for Group A rallying regulations.
Recognitions:
The Lancer Evolution series, including the Evo V, is widely recognized as one of the greatest performance sedans ever produced, particularly for its rally prowess and driving dynamics.
Car And Driver Rating:
Car and Driver magazine often lauded the Evo series for its exceptional handling and performance, though the Evo V was not officially imported to the US market at the time of its release.
Certifications:
None specific beyond standard Japanese vehicle manufacturing certifications.
