Lancer Evolution

The Lancer Evolution was launched by Mitsubishi in 1992, and is also known as the Lancer Evo, or just Evo. The Evo featured a 2 liter turbocharged engine and 4-wheel drive. Developed especially for rally racing, these cars were sold at a few locations from 1998, and exported officially to the U.S. in 2003. Though japanese automakers at the time had an agreement not to surpass 280 hp, the evo unofficially topped that, and some versions were sold abroad with up to 405 bhp (302 kW).

Evolution IV

The 1996 Evo was a complete redesign. The engine and transaxle were rotated 180, and a new twin scroll turbocharger design increased the power output to 280 PS (276 hp/206 kW) at and 260 ft/lbf (352 N/m) of torque. The most recognizable feature of the IV is the large, twin-fog lights in the bumper, and new taillights. The IV was available in RS and GSR model specs. The RS spec was produced to be a competition car, with a limited-slip front differential and rear friction-type LSD. It further more featured reduced weight and added brace bars. The GSR featured Mitsubishi's new Active Yaw Control, using steering and throttle input sensors, as well as g-sensors to optimally split power to the rear wheels.

Evolution V

Evo V was introduced in 1998, and many changes had been adopted in to the new design. The body featured flared arches, and a new adjustable aluminum rear spoiler. The wheels were enlarged to fit brembo calipers, the engine was strengthened, and the cam duration was increased. The engine also featured lighter pistons, an injector upgrade, and better engine reliability due to the upgraded ECU, that now also included a flash ROM. The turbo was also improved upon, now outputting 275 ft/lbf (373 N/m) of torque, and 280 PS (276 hp/206 kW), though this may actually have been higher.

Evolution VI

In early 1999, the Evo VI was released, with a shift of focus on to cooling and engine durability. The larger intercooler, oilcooler and upgraded pistons were all welcome changes for the rally crowd.

The VI Evo also featured upgraded bodywork, with the fog lights moved to the side of the bumper and reduced in size, for better airflow. A tuned by Ralliart version was also available, producing up to with 330 hp (246 kW).

The Lancer Evolution is extremely popular among gymkhana and grip racers. The powerful 4G63 engine and great handling 4WD system makes for a perfect tuning base, and has proven itself to be a great performer by many highly tuned examples within Japan and throughout the world. Lancer Evolutions can be seen in professional motorsports competitions such as the WRC, Japan's Super GT, and recently the D1 Grand Prix drifting competition. Aero Parts, Suspension, Exhaust, Wheels, Interior, etc. all aspects of the CN9A and CP9A can be upgraded and parts are readily available through a wide variety of garages and parts manufacturers all over Japan.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitsubishi_Lancer_Evolution