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 280hp, the evos unofficially topped that, and some versions were sold abroad with up to 405 bhp (302 kW).

Evolution VII

The Evolution VII was a break with previous models, now based off of the larger Lancer Cedia platform. The biggest new additions were the active center differential, and upgraded LSDs, with a front helical LSD added. Minor engine upgrades bumped the torque to 84 ft/lbf (385 N/m), while the horsepower officially remained at 280. The new GT-A spec model version of the VII was though up as a 'gentleman's express' version of the GSR, with more focus on drivability, noise dampening and fuel economy.

Evolution VIII

2003 saw another upgrade to the popular Evo model. New features included Super Active Yaw Control, for improved traction and a 5- or 6-speed manual gearbox. The popular Altezza-style taillights were also added. The JDM model still officially featured a 280 PS (276 hp/206 kW) engine, and was available in four trims: The standard GSR model, The RS, with a 5-MT, lacks all unessential features, the SSL (with sunroof, subwoofer, and leather seats), and the MR, (with revised Front LSD, Interior upgrades, BBS wheels & 6-MT). The UK got a special tuned lineup called FQ. The top model, the FQ400 produces 405.2 hp (302.13 kW) from its 2.0 L 4G63 engine, the highest specific output per liter of any roadcar engine. The 1450kg car could fly to 60mph in just 3.5 seconds, 100 mph in 9.1 and had a top speed of 283 km/h. This outperformed several of the top model Porsche and Lamborghinis. The VIII was the first Evo to be officially launched in the U.S. The american version was stripped of many of the big innovations, and the first gear was limited to 5000 rpm, limiting performance to a degree.

Evolution IX

In 2005, Mitsubishi introduced the Evo IX. The 2.0L 4G63 engine featured a new variable valve timing called MIVEC. The official output was listed at 286, but the performance of the Evo IX hints at an actual engine output of 310-320 hp. The Evo IX was capable of accelerating from 0-60 in just 4.3 seconds and run the 1/4 mile in the 12 second range. In the U.S., The Evo IX was available in 4 specs; RS - ralli sport, a revised 5-MT with aluminum roof, gauge pack, minimal interior, and no radio, SE - Special Edition, with aluminum roof/hood, and front fenders, aluminum BBS wheels, HID headlights, red-stitched Recaro seats, the MR - with a 6-MT, Bilstein shocks, aluminum roof, hood, BBS wheels, and front fenders, gauge pack, HID headlights with integrated fog lights, vortex generator, and MR badging. In Japan, Asia and europe, 3 model specs were available. The GSR spec was a sporty, ready-to-race version, the RS was a stripped down version, ready for tuning and custom jobs, and the GT spec, which is the RS with some interior pieces from the GSR. The UK similarly had 3 models initially; FQ-300, FQ-320 and FQ-340. The FQ-360 was released as a successor to the Evolution VIII FQ-400. While producing less horsepower than the FQ400, the engine produced massive amounts of torque, rated at 363 lb/ft (492 N/m).

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. With the proper modifications the Stock 4G63 engine has the potential of producing close to 400hp with the Stock turbocharger. Imprezas 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 CT9A 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