Mods and Consequences
Modifying Evos is big business and gains can be huge. Here’s how to navigate what’s available
Mitsubishi Evo IV, V & VI
As an all-conquering rally weapon you might think there’s probably not much you can do to improve a Mitsubishi Evo. However, if you’re keen to use your Evo and it’s already a bit tired, as most of these cars are, there are plenty of things you can do.
A quick bit of history first though. The original Lancer Evo arrived in 1992 and the Evo IV that we’re covering here appeared four years later, in autumn 1996. Whereas the first three generations of Evo shared a platform, the Evo IV’s was all new. This was carried over to the Evo V and VI, which made their debuts in 1998 and 1999 respectively; the latter was the first Evo to be officially imported into the UK. The Evo V featured revised bumpers, a bonnet vent, a wider track, bigger brakes and tougher engine internals, while the Evo VI brought a larger intercooler and tougher pistons. When the Evo VII was revealed in 2001, it ushered in another all-new platform which was then used for the Evo VIII and Evo IX.
All these Evos were fitted with a turbocharged, intercooled fourcylinder engine codenamed 4G63. Rated at 276bhp, it gave a 155mph top speed with 0-60mph possible in less than 4.5 seconds, with four-wheel-drive fitted as standard helping to keep the wheels planted in tricky conditions.
Going beyond 350bhp you’ll need an upgraded fuel pump, or else the engine will run lean because of poor petrol supply. One of the easiest ways of upping power is a boost controller; manual versions (fitted under the bonnet) are available for less than £50, while dash-mounted electronic controllers cost £100 upwards.
Once you top 400bhp you’ll need to upgrade the pistons and con-rods; the standard transmission is safe to 500bhp. While the crankshaft is fine for up to 400bhp, you can fit a long-throw item that will take the displacement up to as much as 2.4 litres to improve torque as well as power. Take this route and you’ll need to find at least £8000 to do the work properly.
If you want big power ( you can squeeze up to 1000bhp from an Evo engine if you have a massive budget) you’ll need a bigger turbocharger. From the Evo IV a twin-scroll turbo was fitted so it’s already pretty efficient, but a bigger unit is needed if you want to go beyond the 400bhp that the standard item can supply. Budget £3000-plus for a kit with manifold and associated pipework, but increase the size of the turbo and you’ll also increase the amount of lag.