Market Segment:
Performance Rally Homologation Special / Sports Sedan
Key Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Toyota Celica GT-Four
Rally Heritage:
Designed for WRC homologation, renowned for its rallying pedigree and capabilities
All Wheel Drive:
Advanced Super Active Yaw Control (AYC) and Viscous coupling Limited Slip Center Differential (VLSD)
Engine Technology:
Iconic 4G63T 2.0L DOHC Turbocharged MIVEC engine
Aero Dynamics:
Aggressive body kit including front bumper, side skirts, rear bumper, and large rear wing for enhanced downforce
Engine:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Lubrication, Engine Cooling, Fuel & Emission Control Systems, Ignition System, Turbocharging System
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (5-speed), Transfer Case, Drive Shafts, Differentials (Front, Center, Rear)
Brakes:
Hydraulic System, Front & Rear Brakes (Disc), ABS System
Suspension:
Front & Rear Suspension (MacPherson Struts, Multi-link), Steering System
Electrical:
Electrical System, Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, Power Windows, Mirrors, Central Locking
Body And Chassis:
Body Construction, Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Chassis Components
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Replacement, Fluid Checks and Replacements
Repair Overhaul:
Engine Rebuild (Top & Bottom End), Transmission Overhaul, Differential Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Turbocharger Rebuild
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Electrical Troubleshooting Diagrams (ETD)
Technical Data:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Alignment Procedures, Special Tool Usage
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and drivetrain rebuilds)
Engine Configuration:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged with intercooler
Engine Displacement:
1997 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Horsepower Ps:
276 PS (272 hp) @ 6500 rpm (JDM/European spec)
Torque Nm:
373 Nm (275 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (JDM/European spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-port Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (95 RON or higher)
Turbocharger Model:
Mitsubishi TD05H-16G (or similar variant)
Boost Pressure:
Variable, typically around 1.3 bar (19 psi) with manual boost controller
Cylinder Head Features:
MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) system on intake camshafts for improved power and response
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (Type R)
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Manual exclusively for most performance variants)
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Yaw Control (AYC) System
Center Differential:
Viscous Coupling Limited Slip Center Differential (VLSD)
Rear Differential:
Helical Limited Slip Differential (LSD)
NHTSA Rating:
Not specifically rated by NHTSA for this era of homologation special, but built to rigorous rally safety standards.
Active Safety Systems:
AYC (Active Yaw Control), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Passive Safety Features:
Reinforced chassis, driver and passenger airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, front and rear crumple zones
Front Brakes:
Ventilated Discs (4-piston caliper, often Brembo on Ralli Art variants)
Rear Brakes:
Solid Discs (2-piston caliper)
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD stereo system with multiple speakers. Some models featured premium audio options.
Advanced Systems:
AYC (Active Yaw Control) system which electronically controls torque distribution to the rear wheels for improved cornering stability and agility.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on vehicle performance and driver engagement. No modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity typically.
Gauge Cluster:
Comprehensive gauge cluster including speedometer, tachometer, boost gauge, oil pressure, water temperature, and voltmeter. Warning lights for AYC system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 5,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended)
Timing Belt Interval:
Every 90,000 - 100,000 km (56,000 - 62,000 miles) or 5 years
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH/SJ or ACEA A2/A3, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check specific conditions and oil manufacturer recommendations for high-performance use)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, mix 50/50 with deionized water
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 (for manual transmission)
Transfer Case Fluid Type:
GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 (for transfer case)
Differential Fluid Type:
GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 80W-90 or 75W-90 (for front and rear differentials)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Failures:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially early 4G63), turbocharger failure, clutch wear, AYC pump issues, rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills).
Performance Considerations:
Requires meticulous maintenance due to high-performance nature. Regular checks of oil and coolant levels are critical. Upgraded cooling and oil systems are common for heavily modified cars.
Brand Focus:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, known for its engineering prowess and motorsport involvement.
Predecessors:
Lancer Evolution I, II, III
Successors:
Lancer Evolution VII, VIII, IX, X
Production Years:
1999 - 2001
Key Variants:
GSR, RS, Tommi Mäkinen Edition (TME)
Wrc Success:
The Evo VI platform, particularly the Tommi Mäkinen Edition, was dominant in the World Rally Championship, securing manufacturer and driver titles.
Rally Awards:
Multiple WRC Manufacturer's and Driver's Championship titles with various Evolution models, including significant success attributed to the Evo VI platform.
Performance Reviews:
Consistently lauded by automotive press for its exceptional handling, grip, acceleration, and driver involvement, earning it 'legendary' status among enthusiasts.
Homologation:
Built as a homologation special to meet the requirements for the World Rally Championship (WRC).