Performance Compact Sedan / Rally Homologation Special
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, rally drivers, performance vehicle owners, mechanics specializing in Japanese performance cars
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors Era:
Subaru Impreza WRX (though primarily later generations), Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Lancia Delta Integrale
Key Features
Rally Homologation:
Developed for WRC Group A homologation, featuring advanced technology for its time.
Iconic Engine:
Legendary 4G63 turbocharged engine, known for its robustness and tuning potential.
AWD System:
Advanced four-wheel-drive system (Advanced Four-Wheel Drive System - Twin Clutch-SST predecessor) with driver-selectable modes (initially viscous coupling center diff and mechanical LSDs).
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Title:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I 1992-1994 Full Service Repair Manual
Product Description Snippet:
Very detailed contains everything you will ever need to know about your Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I
Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, potentially with CD player as an option in later production years or market-specific variants.
Display:
Minimal dashboard displays, focus on essential driving information (speedometer, tachometer, boost gauge, coolant temp).
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Standard ABS system on all wheels.
AWD Control:
Driver-selectable center differential mode (though the first Evo had a less electronically sophisticated system than later models, relying more on mechanical components).
Connectivity
Factory Connectivity:
None.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) with correct platinum or iridium plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid:
Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Differential Fluid Front Rear:
Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH, Viscosity: 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for climate specific recommendations). Capacity: Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter.
Coolant:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors). Capacity: Approx. 7.5 Liters.
Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 2.0 Liters.
Differential Fluid Front:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 1.3 Liters.
Differential Fluid Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 1.0 Liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 non-silicone based brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or III compatible fluid.
Known Issues
Head Gasket:
Prone to head gasket failure if overheated or pushed beyond stock limits, especially with aftermarket tuning. Early signs include coolant loss or oil-coolant mixing.
Clutch Wear:
The clutch can wear relatively quickly under spirited driving or frequent hard launches.
Turbo Wear:
The TD05-14B turbocharger, while robust, can eventually develop shaft play or bearing wear with high mileage or inadequate lubrication/cooling.
Engine Mounts:
Factory engine and transmission mounts can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration and harsher shifts.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber bushings in the suspension can perish, leading to play, noise, and degraded handling.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Rally Roots:
Mitsubishi's extensive history in motorsport, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC).
Model Evolution
Inception:
Created as a homologation special to allow Mitsubishi to compete in WRC Group A regulations.
First Generation:
Based on the Mitsubishi Lancer GSR platform but heavily modified for performance.
Subsequent Generations:
Set the foundation for all future Lancer Evolution models, establishing its performance identity.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
Production Volume:
Limited, specific numbers vary but generally considered low volume compared to standard Lancer.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Motorsport Success:
While the Evo I itself was primarily a homologation model, it laid the groundwork for Mitsubishi's legendary WRC success in subsequent years, making it an iconic motorsport platform.
Ratings
Performance Benchmark:
Widely recognized as a benchmark in affordable, rally-bred performance during its era.