Mitsubishi’s Lancer Evolution is so aptly named – each iteration built upon the last until the model reached a pinnacle of development prized by drivers throughout the world. The Evo I arrived in 1992, barely more than a test bed aimed at the World Rally Championship. Its two-liter engine produced about 244 hp. By the time the Evo III came along in 1995, output was up to 270 hp, and that year, Mitsubishi won the WRC Manufacturer’s Championship. The advent of the Evo IV added active yaw control to the all-wheel-drive platform, leading to solid wins across WRC. From there, Mitsubishi continued to refine the package, offering road-going cars in RS, GSR, and Tommi Mäkinen Edition variations. Here on Cars & Bids – with the tip coming courtesy of PRA4SNW – is a desirable 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI RS, bid to $16,000 and located in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. This is a JDM car, with an odometer reading of just 44,400 km. Evo prices have been rising; let’s investigate where this one might sell.
The turbocharged 4G63 engine in the Evo VI remained at 2.0 liters, but received improvements to its intercooler, a larger oil cooler, and improved pistons – all by way of boosting reliability and durability. Output registers 280 hp. The gearbox is a five-speed manual. By now, Brembo brakes were standard. The seller added a rear stabilizer bar anchored to the strut towers in the trunk, but other than that and a few cosmetic changes, this example is blessedly free of modifications. Notably, the age of the timing belt is unknown.
The RS was built as a road-going rally car, with a simple interior devoid of creature comforts – no AC, power windows or even airbags in here. That’s a Momo steering wheel – about the only style point. A Nakimichi CD changer was installed by a previous owner, and in case you need it, the car comes with a Japanese toll card reader.
The seller notes minor rust on the underside and scratches on the door jambs, but otherwise, the car presents well. The car is titled in Wisconsin, so no one need bother with half-done import paperwork. As noted, Evo values have been rising steadily as demographics favor both Japanese cars and the 1990s/early 2000s era. Sparkling performance – reaching a zenith when the VI was produced – provides another boost to prices. Tommi Mäkinen Editions bring the most money, selling in the range of $50k to $60k. The GSR trim is more common in the US, with examples bringing $25k to $35k. While finding RS comparables is tougher, the current bid seems a bit shy of market value.
The local (L&B) polis had an evo 8; I noticed it when slithering up to a red light on a KTM 640. It was later taken off them when they overtook the chief constable with blues and twos going having been out to get food.