1992.10 : Mitsubishi launched the Lancer Evolution GSR sports AWD sedan series with the purpose of participating in the World Rally Championship (WRC). The Lancer Evolution is powered by a 4G63 DOHC turbocharged engine with high capacity intercooler that makes 250 horsepower. The suspension adopts McPherson strut type front suspension and newly developed multi-link rear suspension. And brakes adopt 15 inches 2 pods front discs and 14 inches rear disc. The Lancer Evolution is equipped with a air-to-air oil cooler, an aluminum engine hood with large-sized air outlets, a large rear spoiler, a MOMO steering wheel (GSR), and RECARO seats (GSR).
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1994.01 : The Lancer Evolution II was launched. Engine power has been improved
to 260 horsepower by updating the boost pressure and by improving the exhaust.
The handling of the first Evolution was called a weak point by most and
so Mitsubishi improved and sharpened the handling. And body stiffness has
been increased. Wider 205/60R15 tires are fitted ; up by 10mm in tread
width.
1995.2 : The body strength of the Lancer Evolution III is improved by 20%,
allowing more body twist than the previous model. A revised large rear
spoiler is equipped. |
1996.10 : The new platform for the Evolution IV was introduced. The 4G63
engine has been improved, and adopts a metal head gasket, TD05HR-16G6-9T
turbine, a large size intercooler with twin water spray, and a chrome-molybdenum
steel flywheel. And the conventional LSD has been changed to an Active
Yaw Control (AYC) system that can change left and right rear torque distribution.
This is achieved by utilizing a torque transfer differential that controlled
by various sensors and an electronic control unit (ECU) to enable a difference
in torque to go to each of the rear wheels. This results in optimal power
distribution between the left and right rear wheels to maintain maximum
traction when cornering, correction under steer and over steer. The double
wishbone rear suspension is also adopted.
1998.01 : The Lancer Evolution V has been developed as the base model for
Group-A rally car. The Lancer Evolution 5 continues the evolution process,
with a further increase in engine torque and substantially improved handling
thanks to a wider treads and upgraded BREMBO braking. Tire size is increased
up to 225/45ZR17. The Evolution 5 is also equipped with a delta-shaped
wicker and adjustable rear spoiler that can provide four different angle-of-attack
settings for the wing to vary rear aerodynamic down-force to suit a wider
range of driving conditions.
1999.02 : The Lancer Evolution VI conforms to the WRC regulation for 1999.
Improvements in safety and cooling are achieved in the latest Evolution
incarnation. The Evolution 6 features a number of new aero parts in its
revamped exterior and interior design, as well as further improvements
in handling, stability and cooling performance resulting in greater performance.
The 4G63 engine has been improved by changing the water temperature regulation,
adding cooling channels to the pistons and by using a high-volume oil cooler.
A larger diameter air intake hose and turbocharger air intake port is used
to achieve improved high-end power output and response. The interior boasts
black/blue RECARO seats, a leather wrapped steering wheel, a blue-stitch
shift lever boot and a blue dial face instrument cluster. Also available
by order is the RS Evolution 6 competition model designed for entry in
motor sports events.
1999.10 : Mitsubishi introduced the Lancer Evolution VI TOMMI MAKINEN Edition.
The TOMMI-MAKINEN edition features a tarmac tuned suspension that gives
improved initial response on tarmac surfaces. A high-response titanium
turbocharger gives better low-end and mid-range torque, using a smaller
size compressor wheel. A new exhaust silencer is employed with a single
large bore circular tailpipe for improved performance. 17-inch alloy wheels
share the same design as on Mitsubishi's WRC Group-A works car.
