Mitsubishi Lancer EVO VIII "Evolution" is the wrong name for this car. By definition "Evolution" is not a Beatles song, it is ?A gradual process in which something changes into a different and usually more complex or better form.? Well the process is not gradual, it has been sped up. First year production is targeted at 6500 units. Watch for a cool custom Lancer featured in 2 Fast 2 Furious. Instead of the anemic engine that tows the standard Lancer, the Evo packs a 271-horsepower punch from an intercooled turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder, paired with a slick five-speed manual transmission. Engine oil cooler, Water spray for the intercooler (automatic and manually operation). The extra thrust is enough to propel Mitsubishi's little rocket to 60 m.p.h. in 5 seconds flat. While this is not quite enough to take out a Corvette in the quarter mile, you will enjoy spanking the Mustangs. Throwing the "EVO" into a hard turn is a lot of fun, everything feels very tight with lots of grip. BRAKES?Check out the Big Bad Brembos. WHEELS/TIRES?Yokohama P235/45R-17 Tires?17x8 six-spoke Enkei wheels. SUSPENSION?Front struts are inverted?Evolution has an entirely different suspension from the base Lancer, Multi-link rear suspension, Macpherson strut front suspension, Sport ABS system with 4-wheel independent brake control. Evolution adds 15 welds and structural reinforcements throughout the body to improve rigidity. Flexural rigidity is 1.6 times that of the base Lancer. Torsional rigidity is 2 times that of the base Lancer.INTERIOR?Recaro seats, MOMO steering wheel and 160mph speedometer. But where's the turbo gauge? EXTERIOR?Two rear spoilers are available but we like the big carbon fiber/plastic one better. Optional glass sunroof, Rear intermittent wiper and Front fascia undercover for air flow management. Available in White, Yellow, Red, Silver, Blue, Black. HID projection lamps, Clear tail light covers. All this for $28,987. Subaru must be upset with this competitor for the 220HP WRX, so they will be importing the WRX Sti to America which makes 300HP. Watch Planet X- www.planetxtv.com -Tom
