1996-2001 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV-VI - Complete Buyer's Guide

Quick Specs

• Years: Evo IV (1996-1998), Evo V (1998-1999), Evo VI (1999-2001)
• Code: CN9A (Evo IV-VI)
• Engine: 4G63T 2.0L Turbo I4
• Power: 276 hp (official) / 280-310 hp (actual)
• Drivetrain: AWD (Active Center Differential)
• Transmission: 5-speed manual

Overview

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV-VI represents the golden era of rally-bred performance sedans. These three generations refined the Evo formula with proven WRC technology, making them highly sought-after by enthusiasts and collectors.

Why These Evos are Special:

• Direct WRC technology transfer (Tommi Mäkinen's championship cars)
• Refinement of the proven 4G63T engine
• Advanced AWD system with Active Yaw Control (Evo VI)
• Affordable entry into JDM performance ($25k-60k)
• Now 25-year import eligible (Evo IV since 2021, Evo V-VI coming)

Generation Highlights:

• Evo IV (1996-1998): First with ACD, improved aero, 276 hp
• Evo V (1998-1999): Refinements, forged pistons, stronger transfer case
• Evo VI (1999-2001): AYC (Active Yaw Control), Tommi Mäkinen Edition, peak evolution

Performance & Specifications

Engine: 4G63T

• 2.0L inline-4 turbocharged
• Mitsubishi TD05 16G turbo
• Forged internals (Evo V onwards)
• MIVEC variable valve timing (Evo VI)
• Officially 276 hp (gentlemen's agreement)
• Actually 280-310 hp depending on variant

Drivetrain:

• AWD with Active Center Differential (ACD)
• Active Yaw Control (AYC) on Evo VI
• Torque split: Variable front/rear
• 5-speed close-ratio manual
• Mechanical front/rear LSDs

Performance Numbers:

• 0-60 mph: 4.4 seconds
• 1/4 mile: 12.9 seconds
• Top speed: 155 mph (limited)
• Lateral G: 0.98g

Special Editions:

• Evo IV RS (Rally spec, lightweight)
• Evo V RS (Improved cooling, forged pistons)
• Evo VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition (White, titanium turbo, AYC)
• Evo VI RS (Track-focused, lighter)

Buying Guide

What to Look For

Good Signs:

• Complete service history (3k mile oil changes)
• Stock or professionally tuned
• No rust (common in wheel wells, rear quarters)
• Clean auction sheet (Grade 4+)
• Compression test 150+ psi all cylinders
• Transfer case not clunking

Red Flags:

• Crankwalk (pre-2001 models)
• Rust in chassis rails, rear subframe
• Poorly executed mods
• Oil starvation damage (track use)
• Slipping clutch
• Transfer case whine/clunk

Common Issues

Known Problems:

1. Crankwalk - Thrust bearing failure (Evo IV-VIII pre-2001)

   • Symptoms: Rough idle, increased clutch pedal height
   • Prevention: Use quality oil, avoid hard launches from low RPM
   • Repair: $3k-5k engine rebuild

2. Transfer Case Failure

   • Symptoms: Whining, clunking during acceleration
   • Common on hard-driven cars
   • Repair: $1,500-3,000

3. Rust - Wheel wells, rear quarters, chassis rails

   • Inspect thoroughly before purchase
   • Prevention: Undercoating, regular washing

4. Turbo Failure - TD05 16G turbos wear out

   • Symptoms: Blue smoke, oil consumption, low boost
   • Replacement: $1,000-2,000

5. Clutch Wear - Stock clutch rated to 280 hp

   • Upgrade needed for modified cars
   • Aftermarket: $800-1,500

Average Prices (US Market 2026)

Evo IV (1996-1998):

• Clean stock: $30k-45k
• RS model: $40k-60k
• Modified: $25k-40k

Evo V (1998-1999):

• Clean stock: $35k-50k
• RS model: $45k-65k
• Modified: $28k-45k

Evo VI (1999-2001):

• Clean stock: $40k-60k
• Tommi Mäkinen Edition: $50k-80k
• RS model: $45k-70k
• Modified: $32k-55k

Price Trend: Steadily increasing, TME commanding premium.

Best Model to Buy

For Investment:

• Evo VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition (white, #001-2500, most collectible)
• Evo VI RS (track-focused, rare)

For Daily/Track Use:

• Evo V RS (forged internals, strong transfer case)
• Evo VI GSR (best balance of features/price)

For Budget:

• Evo IV GSR (most affordable entry, proven platform)

Modifications & Tuning

Tuning Potential:

• Stock turbo: 320-350 hp
• Upgraded turbo: 400-500 hp (16G-XT, FP Green)
• Built engine: 600-800+ hp

Popular Mods (Budget $5k-12k):

1. Turbo Upgrade - FP Green, HKS GT3037S
2. Exhaust - HKS Hi-Power, Tomei Expreme Ti
3. Intake - HKS Super SQV, Blitz SUS Power
4. ECU Tune - AEM EMS, Link G4+, Haltech
5. Suspension - Tein Flex Z, Ohlins Road & Track
6. Brakes - Brembo upgrade, Project Mu pads

Recommended Parts:

• COBB Tuning AccessPORT - ECU tuning (12% commission)
• ModBargains Evo Parts - Turbo, suspension (6% commission)
• Tire Rack - Performance Tires - Wheels, tires (8% commission)

FTC Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Ownership Experience

Running Costs:

• Insurance: $1,500-3,000/year
• Maintenance: $2,000-4,000/year
• Fuel: 18-24 MPG mixed (premium required)
• Mods budget: $5k-15k initially

Parts Availability:

• OEM parts: Limited from Mitsubishi
• Aftermarket: Excellent (AMS, Buschur, ETS, GSC)
• Specialist shops: Strong Evo community

Reliability:

• Stock: Very reliable with maintenance
• Modified: Depends on tune quality
• 4G63T proven platform

Import Process

25-Year Eligibility:

• Evo IV (1996): Legal since 2021
• Evo V (1998): Legal since 2023
• Evo VI (1999): Legal in 2024

Import Steps:

1. Find importer (JDM Import Specialists)
2. Select from Japanese auction
3. Ship ($1,500-2,500)
4. Clear customs (HS-7, EPA 3520-1)
5. Pay duties (2.5%)
6. State registration

FAQ

Q: Which Evo is best - IV, V, or VI? A: Evo VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition for collectors. Evo V RS for enthusiasts (forged internals).

Q: What is crankwalk and should I worry? A: Thrust bearing failure in pre-2001 models. Get PPI with endplay measurement (<0.005" acceptable).

Q: Can I daily an Evo? A: Yes, but prepare for RHD, 18-22 MPG, and premium fuel. Stock cars are very reliable.

Q: How much power can the 4G63T handle? A: 400-450 hp on stock internals. 600+ hp with forged pistons/rods.

Q: Evo vs STI - which is better? A: Evo has sharper handling, STI has more low-end torque. Both excellent.

Guide created for enthusiasts. Always get pre-purchase inspection from Evo specialist.