This is my daily driven EVO 8 track slut. I am completely satisfied with its performance. It may not be the fastest thing on the street but its truely an all around driving machine that inspires confidence. Not only is this EVO used for which it was intended, I also beat the shit out of this car every single time I'm behind the wheel simply because I can. All mods are purpose driven and functional. Absolutely no rice on the car. I road race, drag race, autocross, and pretty much pound on this car on a regular basis. It takes the abuse with a smile and asks for more. Coming from a 2G DSM, I really appreciate the stability and overall entire package of the EVO. It not just fast in a straight line, it does it all and then some. This is the first car I've had that has met and surpassed my expectations.

Performance Modifications

1. Vishnu XFlash tuned via OpenECU & EVOScan
2. Full 3" downpipe, testpipe, catback.
3. EVO 9 Diverter Valve
4. Carbotech XP12 Race Brake Pads
5. EVO 9 Turbo with 10.5 hotside
6. Ingalls Stiffy Engine Dampener
7. AMS Lower Intercooler Pipe
8. Blitz Electronic Boost Controller
9. Walbro 255 Fuel Pump
10. Innovate LC1 Wideband
11. HKS 272 Cams
12. Helix Cam Gears (-2/-2 for more midrange power)
13. Perrin Adjustable Rear Sway Bar
14. Tubular O2 housing (removed due to boost creep)
15. Megan Racing Coil Overs w/adjustable camber (-2F,-1.5R)
16. OBX Turbo Intake Pipe
17. 255/40/17 Race Tires
18. TRE modified Ralliart Front Limited Slip
19. SMC Alcohol Injection System

Appearance Changes
1. EVO-8 & EVO-9-MR-SE wheels (Auto-x/HPDE)
2. Lower lancer wing for daily use. (less negative attention)
3. RnR Race FMIC (REMOVED due to weight and lag)

The primary reason I purchased this car was for road racing and HPDE events. Straight lines are for fast cars and twisties are for fast drivers. The EVO will perform in all conditions and make most drivers appear to better than they really are. Gotta love that. Rain or shine, stop light or canyon, you always feel like a pro behind the wheel.

Why did I gambled on a used EVO? Mainly because I got a kick arse deal on it. That and is was in like new condition. The previous owner hadn't been nearly as hard on it has he should have been!

A new EVO would have cost about $10k more. I would much rather put that money into mods and race events. Why should I buy a new car only to void the warranty almost immediately? Besides I can fix and upgrade anything that breaks. A new EVO would have been a very large waste of cash. I let the first owner take the depreciation hit. Truth is EVOs were built to be rally cars so theres not much you can do no the street that will cause bad things to happen. They were designed to be a driven hard and put away wet. Redline is the car's happy place.

Why didn't I purchase an MR? Because the MR 6 speed tranny has thinner 4th 5th and 6th gears. Basically the MR wasn't designed for demanding high speed track duty. Many MR guys are swapping the 6 speeds out for the more reliable 5 speed version.

Why did I picked a car with a moon roof? Even though I enjoy racing to no end, I'm aware that most of my time will be spent going from point A to point B or simply crusing around. Well, the serenity and relaxation the moon roof provides me when not racing far outweighs it's cost on the track. I'm not a professional driver so I doubt I could even tell the difference. The moon roof provides tranquility to the cabin. I wont own car without one.

My 03 was lacking only two things, the 10.5 hotside and the front limited slip diff. I upgraded the turbo to an EVO 9 version w the 10.5 hotside at a cost of $500 and sourced a used Ralliart FLSD for $600. I'm am very pleased with both upgrades. Very noticable returns and bang for the buck couldn't be topped.

Overall I absolutely love my EVO. Its a low 12 second functional daily driver. Its practical for the average guy and an exotic whooping weapon on the track. Everytime I get behind the wheel I feel at one with the car. I love getting in and hate getting out!

At this point the car is finished. No more mods. I'm simply going to enjoy the car and work on my driving. Sure I'll be putting money into brakes, tires, and clutches but unlike most, at this point, I know the limiting performance factor is the driver. In all honesty, I get far more enjoyment out of racing the car than I do wrenching on it. WWW.MYSPACE.COM/JEFFJESKE