🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer Evolution I, II, III

Model Code:

CD9A (EVO I), CE9A (EVO II & III)

Generation:

First Generation (Evolution I-III)

Engine Codes:

4G63, 4G63T

Chassis Codes:

CD9A (EVO I), CE9A (EVO II & III)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact performance sedan, rally homologation special

Positioning:

The Lancer Evolution I-III established Mitsubishi's reputation in motorsport and performance road cars, directly competing with rivals like the Subaru Impreza WRX.

Key Competitors:

Subaru Impreza WRX, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Toyota Celica GT-Four

Performance Focus:

Tuned turbocharged engine, advanced All-Wheel Drive system, sophisticated suspension for superior handling.

Rally Heritage:

Developed directly from Mitsubishi's World Rally Championship (WRC) efforts, bringing race-bred technology to the road.

4Wd System:

Advanced viscous coupling center differential and limited-slip differentials for exceptional traction.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I, Evolution II, Evolution III

Applicable Years:

1992-1996

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt, lubrication system, cooling system

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system (MPI), ignition system, ECU diagnosis, sensors, actuators, emissions control system

Turbocharger:

Turbocharger unit, wastegate, intercooler, piping, diagnosis, and overhaul

Transmission:

Manual transmission (W5M33), disassembly, assembly, lubrication, clutch system, transfer case

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, Active Yaw Control (AYC) on some models, front differential, rear differential, driveshafts, propeller shaft

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (multi-link), springs, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment specifications

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, hydraulic components, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, alignment

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, central locking, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams

Body And Trim:

Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, body repair procedures

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system, components, and service

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-I)

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures

Installation:

Installation of major components and accessories

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF

Image Quality:

High quality, clear illustrations and diagrams

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

4G63 DOHC Inline-4 Turbocharged

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1997 cc)

Horsepower Evo1:

247 PS (244 hp) @ 6000 rpm

Torque Evo1:

309 Nm (228 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm

Horsepower Evo2:

252 PS (249 hp) @ 6000 rpm

Torque Evo2:

309 Nm (228 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm

Horsepower Evo3:

270 PS (266 hp) @ 6000 rpm

Torque Evo3:

309 Nm (228 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (increased at higher RPM in later models)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (RON 95/98 recommended)

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition with knock sensor

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (W5M33)

Type:

N/A (Manual transmission was standard for all EVO I-III models)

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with viscous coupling center differential and optional Active Yaw Control (AYC) on later models.

Transfer Case:

Integrated with transmission and front differential

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 or GL-5, viscosity SAE 75W-90 (check manual for exact specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,310 - 4,345 mm (169.7 - 171.1 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,690 - 1,770 mm (66.5 - 69.7 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,415 - 1,435 mm (55.7 - 56.5 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,600 mm (102.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,240 - 1,340 kg (2,734 - 2,952 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Varies by model and specification

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited data available for this era, primarily focused on JDM specifications. Likely met contemporary Japanese safety standards.

ABS:

Standard on most models, 4-channel ABS system.

AWD:

Advanced AWD system provides significant traction advantage in adverse conditions.

Ayc:

Active Yaw Control (on Evolution II GSR, Evolution III GSR) to improve cornering stability and agility.

Airbags:

Driver's airbag typically standard, passenger airbag optional or unavailable on early models.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners.

Chassis Design:

Reinforced chassis for improved rigidity and crashworthiness.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player or CD player (optional/later models). Likely aftermarket upgrades common.

Gauges:

Comprehensive gauge cluster including boost gauge, oil pressure, and voltmeter in GSR models.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced braking control.

AWD Control:

Advanced AWD system with viscous coupling and center differential, and AYC on higher trims.

Original Connectivity:

Limited to basic vehicle functions. No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity from factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 5,000 - 10,000 km (3,000 - 6,000 miles) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Frequent track use requires more frequent changes.

Timing Belt:

Every 90,000 - 100,000 km (56,000 - 62,000 miles) or 5-6 years. Critical replacement due to interference engine design.

Spark Plugs:

Every 40,000 - 60,000 km (25,000 - 37,000 miles), depending on plug type.

Coolant Flush:

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

Engine Oil:

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (synthetic recommended for performance driving). Check manual for specific API rating.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4, High-performance DOT 4 recommended for spirited driving.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II/III ATF or specific Mitsubishi power steering fluid.

Engine:

Head gasket failure (especially under high boost/heat), turbocharger wear, piston ring wear.

Drivetrain:

AYC pump failure, differential wear with aggressive use.

Electrical:

Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring harnesses.

Body:

Rust on chassis and wheel arches, particularly in humid climates or areas exposed to salt.

📚 Vehicle History

Motorsport Roots:

Mitsubishi's deep involvement in rallying, starting with the Lancer platform, directly led to the creation of the Evolution series.

Evo I:

Debut in 1992, based on the Lancer (CB) platform. Introduced the 4G63T engine and advanced AWD.

Evo Ii:

Released in 1993, featured a revised engine, improved suspension geometry, and slightly wider track. Introduction of the GSR trim with AYC.

Evo Iii:

Launched in 1995, received significant engine and aerodynamic upgrades, including a redesigned front bumper and rear spoiler for better airflow and downforce. More powerful engine output.

Production Period:

1992-1996

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

Total Units Produced:

Estimated ~10,000-15,000 units across all three generations, highly sought after.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorsport Success:

The Lancer Evolution platform achieved significant success in the World Rally Championship, solidifying its performance credentials.

Period Acclaim:

Widely praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its handling, performance, and rally-bred technology upon release.