Segment Role:
Iconic homologation special, rallying pedigree, defining Japanese performance sedan of its era.
Rivals:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Lancia Delta Integrale Evoluzione.
Performance Focus:
Aggressive styling, potent turbocharged engine, advanced all-wheel-drive and active differentials (AYC).
Target Audience:
Owners, mechanics, enthusiasts performing maintenance and repairs on the Lancer Evolution III.
Powertrain:
Engine (4G63T), Transmission (Manual & Automatic variants), Drivetrain (AYC, AWD system)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, Standard), Exhaust System
Electrical:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio, Wiring Diagrams
Body:
Body Panels, Interior Trim, Climate Control, Safety Restraints (SRS)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Inspections, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation, Component Testing Procedures
Repair Rebuild:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhauls, Suspension Component Replacement, Turbocharger Service
Adjustments Calibrations:
Wheel Alignment, Clutch Adjustment, AYC System Calibration (where applicable)
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures)
Engine Type:
DOHC Inline-4, Turbocharged, Intercooled
Displacement:
1997 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower Ps:
270 PS @ 6500 rpm (JDM specification)
Torque Nm:
309 Nm (228 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (JDM specification)
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Octane Rating:
95-98 RON (Premium Unleaded)
Turbo Model:
Mitsubishi TD05H-16G
Coolant Type:
Propylene Glycol based (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant)
Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 / 10W-40 (API SG or higher)
Type:
5-speed Manual (W5M33)
Type:
4-speed Automatic (F4A33)
AWD System:
Full-time 4WD with Active Yaw Control (AYC)
Manual Transmission Fluid
Fluid Spec:
API GL-4 / GL-5 (e.g., Mitsubishi Genuine Gear Oil)
Automatic Transmission Fluid
Fluid Spec:
DIAQUEEN ATF J2 (or equivalent)
Front Diff Spec:
API GL-5 (e.g., Mitsubishi Genuine Gear Oil)
Rear Diff Spec:
API GL-5 (Limited Slip Differential Fluid recommended)
NHTSA Rating:
Not rated by NHTSA for this era and specific model.
Traction Control:
AYC (Active Yaw Control) system is a primary active safety/performance feature.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard, passenger airbag optional/unavailable in some markets.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts, pre-tensioners for front seats.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or 6 months (whichever comes first)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000 km (24,000 miles) (Use specific spark plug type, e.g., NGK BKR7E)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000 km (55,000 miles) or 6 years
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Liters (with filter change)
Coolant Capacity:
7.0 Liters
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (High-temperature racing fluid recommended for spirited driving)
Engine:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially on high-mileage or heavily modified engines), turbocharger wear, oil consumption.
Drivetrain:
AYC pump failure, worn clutch components, differential seal leaks.
Suspension:
Wear in bushings and ball joints, Ralliart strut failure.
Performance Parts:
Upgraded intercooler, larger exhaust system, ECU tuning, performance brake pads, stiffer engine mounts.
Rally Success:
Built on the success of Lancer Evolution I and II, capitalizing on WRC homologation requirements.
Evolution Line:
Third iteration of the iconic Lancer Evolution series, significant visual and mechanical updates over the Evo II.
Production Years:
August 1994 - August 1995
Manufacturing Location:
Mizushima Plant, Okayama Prefecture, Japan
Production Volume:
Approximately 6,000 units (estimated)
