2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII

The rally-bred Lancer Evolution was developed in competition, on the world's most unforgiving terrain, by the world's most demanding drivers. The car's mechanical specification (turbocharged all-wheel-drive) endows it with superb dynamic capability and ease of use, combining surreal road holding, incredible acceleration, purposeful styling, telepathic responses and unmatched control.

The front bumper has been enlarged and suitably reinforced to satisfy federally mandated requirements with an additional beam that increases the strength of the bumper support structure. The Lancer Evolution is optionally available with a carbon fiber rear wing. While the rear wing spoiler slightly improves downforce over the rear axle, in the interest of saving weight, it is not available on the Evolution RS.

A leather-covered, three-spoke MOMO steering wheel and leather-covered shift knob add to the tactile quality of the interior. Round, clearly legible performance gauges are boldly illuminated with a striking red hue. A 140-watt, six-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo is standard on the Lancer Evolution, and a 315-watt Infinity AM/FM/CD stereo with subwoofer is optional. Due to its competitive nature, the RS is not available with a stereo. The driver of a Lancer Evolution 8 is firmly cradled by supportive custom Recaro front sport seats that help alleviate fatigue, and can be adjusted to the ideal driving position. The seats provide effective side support and include sliding and reclining controls that rely on a step-free design, allowing the precise adjustment and location of optimum seating points.

The Lancer Evolution series has become legendary among car enthusiasts, as the result of a mechanical specification that endows this compact sedan with performance capabilities that rival exotic sports cars. The drivetrain of the Lancer Evo series serves as testament to Mitsubishi cars engineering and technological mastery as a car builder.

Lancer Evo continues to push the envelope in all aspects of performance: acceleration, cornering and braking. The 2005 Lancer Evolution VIII MR edition boasts improvements including a larger turbo for improved horsepower, six-speed close-ratio manual transmission, one-piece forged BBS alloy wheels, fast-response Bilstein shocks, and an aluminum roof for a lower center of gravity. The all-wheel drive system has evolved to include front helical limited slip differential and Electronic Active Center Differential (E-ACD), which combine to create an unprecedented level of handling capability. Engine received a 5 bhp and 13 lb-ft increase, due to larger diameter turbo nozzle (9.8 --> 10.5) and new waste gate shape (oval --> circle) for improved boost response.

The Lancer Evolution is powered by a proven and potent version of the 2.0-liter, 4G63, DOHC, four-cylinder engine design that has been steadily refined for improved durability, flexibility and peak power over the past decade. The Lancer Evolution's suspension is designed with competition in mind through use of high-strength, lightweight aluminum and refined pillow ball linkages that improve suspension movement, response and performance.