🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer Evolution III

Model Code:

CE9A

Year Start:

1995

Year End:

1996

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution III (Evo III) was a homologation special built for Group A rallying, establishing Mitsubishi's performance credentials in the 1990s. It's revered for its potent powertrain, sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, and aerodynamic enhancements.

Competitors:

Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Toyota Celica GT-Four, Audi S2 Quattro.

Performance Focus:

The Evo III is characterized by its aggressive styling, significant aerodynamic improvements over its predecessor (larger rear spoiler, revised front bumper and side skirts), and a more powerful engine output.

Rally Heritage:

Developed with direct input from rally racing, it embodies the spirit of performance driving and offers a visceral, connected driving experience.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Global Markets (excluding specific regional variants)

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system, ignition system, turbocharger system, exhaust system.

Engine Management:

ECU diagnosis, sensor operations, actuator controls, emissions control systems (including catalytic converter operation).

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (Type-R), clutch system, transfer case, driveshafts, differentials (front and rear Active Yaw Control - AYC), wheel bearings.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, anti-roll bars), power steering system, steering column, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (discs, calipers, pads), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and diagnostics, parking brake.

Electrical Lighting:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, horn, power windows, power mirrors.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant handling, operation, and troubleshooting.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, chassis components, jacking points, towing information.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flushing, brake fluid replacement, belt inspections and replacement.

Engine Repair:

Head gasket replacement, timing belt replacement, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, turbocharger overhaul, fuel injector servicing.

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, transmission disassembly and reassembly, differential maintenance, AYC system servicing and calibration.

Suspension Steering Repair:

Shock absorber/strut replacement, control arm bushing replacement, power steering pump replacement, tie rod end replacement.

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper rebuilding, brake line replacement, ABS component diagnostics and replacement.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring harness repair, component testing (alternator, starter), troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, sensor replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Quality:

High-resolution, searchable text, printable pages.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

4G63T Inline-4, turbocharged, DOHC, 16-valve

Displacement:

1997 cc (2.0 Liters)

Horsepower Ps:

270 PS (at 6500 rpm)

Torque Nm:

304 Nm (at 5500 rpm)

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection and turbocharger.

Bore X Stroke:

85.0 mm x 88.0 mm

Turbo Model:

Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G (typically)

Ratio:

8.5:1

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Type-R)

Type:

N/A (Only Manual Offered)

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Yaw Control (AYC)

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios available in manual, e.g., 1st: 3.083, 2nd: 1.777, 3rd: 1.333, 4th: 1.030, 5th: 0.761, Reverse: 3.153 (check manual for exact spec).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,310 mm

Width:

Approx. 1,770 mm

Height:

Approx. 1,420 mm

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,600 mm

Curb Weight Kg:

Approx. 1,360 kg

Gross Weight Kg:

Approx. 1,800 kg

Trunk Volume Liters:

N/A (Typically quoted for standard Lancer sedan, performance variants may differ slightly due to chassis bracing or AWD components).

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

No official NHTSA or Euro NCAP ratings typically available for this era of JDM homologation specials. Design focused on rally safety features.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Ayc:

Standard Active Yaw Control (AYC) system for enhanced cornering stability and traction.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard. Passenger airbag not commonly equipped in this era for JDM models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.

Chassis Enhancements:

Reinforced chassis structure for rally homologation.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Typically a basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player. CD players were optional or aftermarket additions.

Advanced Systems:

Primary driver assistance is the AWD with AYC, and ABS. No electronic stability control (ESC) or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) were common.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration from factory).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Km:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 6 months (whichever comes first), especially under spirited driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement Km:

Every 15,000 - 20,000 km or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement Km:

Every 30,000 - 40,000 km (depending on plug type, e.g., platinum or iridium).

Timing Belt Replacement Km:

Every 90,000 - 100,000 km or 5-7 years, crucial for the 4G63T engine.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 is commonly recommended for turbocharged engines.

Engine Oil Capacity Liters:

Approx. 4.5 Liters (with filter change)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant).

Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (for manual transmission).

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90.

Rear Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (for standard differential). Check AYC system for specific fluid requirements.

Ayc Fluid Type:

Specific hydraulic fluid (check manual for part number and type).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Engine Wear:

Oil consumption can increase with mileage. Timing belt tensioner failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage if not replaced at intervals. Cracked exhaust manifolds can occur.

Ayc System:

AYC pump and hydraulic lines can develop leaks or fail over time, affecting handling. Sensor issues can also occur.

Rust:

As with many cars of this era, rust can be a concern, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and rear quarter panels, especially in regions with road salt.

Turbocharger:

Turbo seals can degrade, leading to oil leaks into the intake or exhaust. Regular oil changes with quality oil are critical for longevity.

📚 Vehicle History

Rally Focus:

Mitsubishi has a long and successful history in motorsport, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC), with the Lancer Evolution series being a flagship product.

Evolution Series:

The Evo III built upon the advancements of the Evo I and Evo II, significantly improving aerodynamics and engine power, solidifying its dominance in rally stages and enthusiast appreciation.

Production Years:

1995-1996

Assembly Location:

Japan

Sales Volume:

Limited production, primarily for JDM market and homologation purposes, with smaller exports.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Rally Championships:

The Lancer Evolution platform, including the Evo III, was instrumental in Mitsubishi's WRC success, winning the manufacturers' championship multiple times.

Enthusiast Acclaim:

Highly acclaimed by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its performance, handling, and rally pedigree.

Performance Index:

Consistently rated among the best performance cars of its era, particularly in terms of acceleration and cornering ability relative to price.