Rally Cry: Mitsubishi ups ante with ’04 Evo 8 MR

[NightStorm]

IT SEEMS LIKE THE Mitsubishi Evolution vs. Subaru WRX war is never going to end, much to the benefit of performance enthusiasts.

A new fire-breathing version of the Lancer Evo 8, the MR, was introduced at last year’s Tokyo show and went on sale in Japan on Feb. 13. Aesthetically, the changes over the standard Evo are subtle. A matte-black finish on the front and rear light clusters gives the car a more aggressive feel; a “medium-purplish gray mica� paint scheme gives MR its own hue (as shown in these photos); Recaro buckets get dark gray Alcantara-like fabric while the dashboard is finished off with carbon inserts for a sportier feel. Lightweight 17-inch alloy wheels, which weigh nearly three pounds less than the standard items, complete the package.

The heart of the Evo, the four-cylinder dohc turbocharged unit, has undergone “detail improvements,� according to Mitsubishi, including outfitting the engine with a larger-turbine nozzle and re-profiled cams for an increased power delivery in the mid- to high-rpm range. Two solenoids now control the turbocharger wastegate to provide more torque at lower rpm right through its class-leading 295 lb-ft at 3500 rpm. Improved head-cooling channels, magnetic ion-coated piston rings and a larger-core oil cooler keep things in check. The MR is the first Japanese steel monocoque production car to use an aluminum roof panel, which is nine pounds lighter than steel and allows for a substantial reduction in the center of gravity. Diagonal braces are used to reinforce the roof joints at the front, center and rear pillars, while aluminum side-impact bars cut another eight pounds off the curb weight. The weight reductions, along with a special Bilstein-developed suspension, allow the Evo to reach even higher levels of road holding and precision.

Three models are offered: the road-going GSR priced at $32,200, the lighter and more focused six-speed RS at $31,000 and the competition-use, five-speed RS at $26,000. For now, you’ll have to travel to Japan for a test drive as there are no plans to sell the car elsewhere. And only a test drive will reveal if Mitsubishi has managed to make a worthy rival for the impressive Japan-only Subaru WRX STi Spec C.

[WagenMeister]

So whats the full name of that thing? Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR GSR? Sounds lame. I would prefer is they ditch the VIII and just called it Evolution MR.
The car looks stunning though, I like the black finish on the taillight/headlight. Much better than chrome.

[RacingManiac]

I think MR is still available in both GSR and RS trim...

[WagenMeister]

Thats what I said, the name is too long... They should drop the VIII and go with MR only.

[RacingManiac]

Not as long as Subaru Impreza WRX STI Type RA

[LotusGT1]

Give rats ass about the name. Sweet car...

[Victor]

That's what is so good about rallying. The WRC gave us this car and also Subaru Impreza WRX, Audi Quattro, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Lancia Delta Integrale, and the list goes on and on.