Positioning:
Performance icon in the compact sports sedan segment, renowned for its rally-bred technology and driving dynamics.
Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX, Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Golf R.
Rally Heritage:
Directly influenced by Mitsubishi's World Rally Championship (WRC) success, featuring advanced all-wheel-drive and turbocharged technology.
Performance Focus:
Designed for high-performance driving, offering exceptional grip, handling, and acceleration.
Tuning Potential:
Widely recognized for its robust platform and extensive aftermarket support, making it a popular choice for tuning enthusiasts.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Turbocharger System
Drivetrain:
Manual Transmission (Getrag 6-speed), Transfer Case, Front Differential, Rear Differential (Active), Drive Shafts, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Multi-Link), Steering System (Power Assisted Rack and Pinion), Brakes (Front Brembo 4-piston, Rear Brembo 2-piston, ABS, EBD), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting System, Instrument Panel, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, Wiring Diagrams, Fuses and Relays
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seats, Restraint Systems (Airbags)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Checks and Changes, Filter Replacements, Belt Inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Interpretation, Component Testing
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Rebuilding Procedures (Engine, Transmission), Bodywork Repair, Electrical Component Repair
Adjustments:
Wheel Alignment, Clutch Adjustment, Parking Brake Adjustment
Depth:
Comprehensive (Covers routine maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds, including diagnostic procedures and detailed diagrams)
Engine Code:
4G63T (DOHC 16-valve Inline-4)
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Horsepower:
271 hp @ 6500 RPM (US Spec)
Torque:
273 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM (US Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Throttle Control
Turbocharger:
MHI TD05H-16G (or similar variant) with intercooler
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Transmission Type:
Getrag 6-Speed Manual Transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, Single Dry Plate
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Manual transmission was standard for Evo VIII)
AWD System:
Super Active Yaw Control (AYC) and Active Center Differential (ACD)
NHTSA Rating:
Not specifically rated in all categories due to its niche performance focus, but generally considered robust.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Active Traction Control (ATC)
Airbags:
Driver and Front Passenger Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point Inertial Reel Seatbelts with Pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced body structure for increased rigidity and crash protection.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with an amplifier. Some models may have premium audio options.
Instrument Cluster:
Performance-oriented instrument cluster with analog gauges, including a prominent tachometer and boost gauge.
Ayc System:
Super Active Yaw Control (AYC) electronically controls torque distribution to the rear wheels for enhanced cornering stability.
Acd System:
Active Center Differential (ACD) automatically adjusts the front-to-rear torque split based on road conditions and acceleration.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards; typically includes basic radio and CD connectivity. Aftermarket solutions are common for Bluetooth and USB integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. (Consult manual for exact recommendations)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type, iridium recommended).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles or 5-7 years. (CRITICAL for 4G63T - catastrophic failure if it breaks)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API SG/SH/SJ or ACEA A3/B3/B4). Consider synthetic for high performance.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter
Coolant Type:
Genuine Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors)
Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (Synthetic recommended for Getrag 6-speed)
Transfer Case Fluid Type:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (Synthetic recommended)
Rear Differential Fluid Type:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (Hypoid gear oil, limited slip additive may be required for AYC differential)
Engine Lifespan:
The 4G63T is robust but requires diligent maintenance, especially regarding timing belt replacement and oil changes to prevent bearing failure or turbo issues.
Clutch Wear:
Aggressive driving can lead to premature clutch wear.
Suspension Bushings:
Original rubber bushings can degrade over time, leading to reduced handling precision.
Rust:
Common rust points include wheel arches, rocker panels, and the subframe, especially in areas with salt exposure.
Turbo Failure:
Lack of proper warm-up/cool-down cycles or poor oil maintenance can lead to turbocharger failure.
Motorsport Connection:
Mitsubishi has a rich history in motorsport, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC), with the Lancer Evolution being its flagship rally car for the road.
Evolution Line:
The Evo VIII (CT9A) is the eighth generation of the Lancer Evolution series, introduced in 2003. It evolved from the Evo VII with significant mechanical and aesthetic updates.
Production Years:
2003-2005
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Key Variants:
GSR, RS (Ralliart Sport), MR Edition (GSR with Bilstein suspension and Enkei wheels)
Performance Awards:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its exceptional handling, acceleration, and performance-to-price ratio.
Tuning Community Acclaim:
Highly regarded within the tuning community for its robust 4G63T engine and adaptable chassis, making it a popular platform for modification and motorsports.