🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer Evolution

Chassis Codes:

CD9A (Evo IV), CN9A (Evo V)

Generation Covered:

Fourth Generation (Evo IV) and Fifth Generation (Evo V)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV and V were iconic homologation specials built for rallying, offering a potent blend of performance, handling, and advanced technology for their era. They appealed to enthusiasts seeking a high-performance, all-wheel-drive sedan with rally-bred DNA.

Competitors:

Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Peugeot 405 T16, Audi S2 Quattro. The Evo IV and V distinguished themselves with their sophisticated AYC and ACD systems, providing superior traction and cornering capabilities.

Distinctive Features:

Advanced all-wheel-drive systems (ACD/AYC), potent turbocharged engines, aggressive aerodynamic styling, robust chassis, rally-inspired performance, and sophisticated cooling systems. The Evo V introduced wider bodywork and improved suspension geometry.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, exhaust system, intake system, clutch, transmission (manual), drivetrain, propeller shaft, differentials (front, center, rear), suspension (front, rear), steering system, braking system (ABS), body and frame, electrical system, HVAC, interior components, exterior components, maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, specifications.

Estimated Page Count:

800+

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Print

📖 Manual Coverage

Mechanical Systems:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block assembly, crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, valve train, timing belt replacement, turbocharger system, intercooler system, oil pump, water pump, fuel injectors, fuel pump, EGR system, cooling fan control, radiator, heater core, oil cooler, clutch assembly, manual transmission gearsets, transfer case, propeller shaft, limited-slip differentials (front, rear), ACD (Active Center Differential), AYC (Active Yaw Control) system.

Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuild, turbocharger replacement, transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, suspension component repair and replacement, brake caliper rebuild, wheel bearing replacement, power steering pump replacement, alternator replacement, starter motor replacement, body panel alignment, interior trim removal and installation, electrical connector diagnosis and repair, HVAC system troubleshooting, ECU diagnostics.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance and fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures for electronic systems and mechanical troubleshooting guides. Covers factory-recommended specifications and tolerances.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

N/A (Print format)

Print Quality:

High-quality reproduction of original factory documentation, featuring clear diagrams and legible text.

Binding:

Professional perfect binding or spiral binding for ease of use and durability in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

Durable, heavy-weight paper stock suitable for workshop use, resistant to grease and dirt.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

4G63T

Horsepower Evo Iv:

280 PS (276 hp; 206 kW) at 6,500 rpm

Torque Evo Iv:

350 N⋅m (258 lb⋅ft) at 3,000 rpm

Horsepower Evo V:

280 PS (276 hp; 206 kW) at 6,500 rpm (Japanese market, limited by agreement). International markets often had higher output versions.

Torque Evo V:

373 N⋅m (275 lb⋅ft) at 3,000 rpm (Japanese market). International markets often had higher output versions.

Injection Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Turbocharger and Intercooler

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (premium, high octane recommended)

Displacement:

1997 cc (2.0 L)

Bore X Stroke:

85.0 mm x 88.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1

Engine Block Material:

Cast iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum alloy

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 16 valves (4 valves per cylinder)

Turbocharger Model:

Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G 8cm² (Evo IV), Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G 8cm² (Evo V)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual transaxle

Optional Transmission:

N/A (exclusively manual)

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC) (Evo IV), further refined ACD and AYC systems (Evo V).

Transfer Case:

Integrated with ACD, mechanically locking rear differential on AYC models.

📐 Dimensions

Length Evo Iv:

4,345 mm (171.1 in)

Width Evo Iv:

1,770 mm (69.7 in)

Height Evo Iv:

1,415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase Evo Iv:

2,600 mm (102.4 in)

Length Evo V:

4,350 mm (171.3 in)

Width Evo V:

1,770 mm (69.7 in)

Height Evo V:

1,415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase Evo V:

2,600 mm (102.4 in)

Curb Weight Evo Iv:

1,400 kg (3,086 lb)

Curb Weight Evo V:

1,400 kg (3,086 lb)

Gross Weight Rating:

1,800 kg (3,968 lb)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

50 L (13.2 US gal)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

N/A (Vehicles of this era and segment often did not undergo standardized crash testing by organizations like NHTSA or Euro NCAP with the same rigor as modern vehicles. Focus was on rally homologation safety standards.)

Active Safety:

Advanced All-Wheel Drive (ACD/AYC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), powerful disc brakes (ventilated front and rear).

Passive Safety:

Reinforced safety cell, front and side impact beams, three-point seat belts with pre-tensioners, driver's airbag, optional passenger airbag.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted AM/FM/Cassette or CD player with 4 or 6 speaker system. Basic digital clock.

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges including speedometer, tachometer, fuel, coolant temperature, boost gauge, oil pressure gauge (Evo V). Warning lights for AYC/ACD systems.

AWD System:

Mitsubishi's ACD (Active Center Differential) and AYC (Active Yaw Control) systems provide advanced torque vectoring and differential control for superior handling and traction.

ABS:

Bosch ABS system with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) on some models.

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense. Focus is on mechanical and performance systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 km (3,100 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Heavy-duty use (e.g., track driving) may require more frequent changes.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 100,000 km (60,000 miles) or 5 years, whichever comes first. Critical component, failure leads to severe engine damage.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 km (18,000 miles) for standard plugs, or consult manual for iridium/platinum plugs.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3 (synthetic recommended for high performance).

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.5 L (4.8 US qt) with filter change.

Transmission Fluid Type:

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

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (front and rear differentials, center differential fluid type varies by ACD/AYC variant).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Common Problems:

Turbocharger wear (especially oil seals), AYC pump failure, ACD sensor issues, clutch wear, exhaust manifold cracking, coolant leaks, engine bearing failure if oil starvation occurs, timing belt failure if not replaced.

Maintenance Recommendations:

Strict adherence to maintenance schedules, regular inspection of turbocharger and associated plumbing, checking AYC fluid levels, upgrading cooling system components for sustained performance driving.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Rally History:

Mitsubishi has a long and successful history in the World Rally Championship (WRC), with the Lancer Evolution series being its flagship model, dominating the sport in the 1990s.

Evo Iv Introduction:

Introduced in August 1996, featuring significant chassis and suspension revisions, including the introduction of Active Yaw Control (AYC) and Active Center Differential (ACD).

Evo V Introduction:

Introduced in January 1998, with a wider track, larger wheels and tires, revised suspension geometry, and a slightly more potent engine tune. Features included a quicker steering ratio and larger front brake rotors.

Production Period:

Evo IV: August 1996 - August 1997. Evo V: January 1998 - January 1999.

Manufacturing Location:

Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Rally Championships:

The Lancer Evolution platform, including variants of the Evo IV and V, was instrumental in Mitsubishi's WRC success, securing multiple driver's championships.

Performance Reviews:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its exceptional handling, grip, and rally-bred performance, often considered one of the best driver's cars of its era.

Homologation:

The Lancer Evolution models were developed and produced to meet FIA homologation requirements for Group A rallying.