Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI (1999-2001)

Let's delve into the **Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI (Evo VI)**—a rally-bred legend that left its tire marks on both tarmac and gravel. While the Evo VI is a robust machine, like any performance car, it has its quirks. Here are some common issues and things to watch out for:

1. **Rust**:
- Rust is the eternal enemy of older cars. Inspect the rear chassis legs, sills, and wheel wells for any signs of corrosion.
- Be especially wary of cars that have been heavily undersealed (the infamous "black death"). Sometimes, undersealing hides rust issues.

2. **AYC (Active Yaw Control) System**:
- The Evo VI features an advanced AYC system that enhances handling by distributing torque between the rear wheels.
- Check if the AYC light illuminates during ignition and then goes out. If it doesn't, there might be issues with the system.

3. **Engine Bay Turrets**:
- Inspect the engine bay turrets (the top mounts where the suspension components attach) for rust or damage.
- Healthy turrets ensure proper suspension performance.

4. **Suspension Components**:
- Listen for any unusual noises during the test drive. Pay attention to the diff (differential) and gearbox.
- Strut top mount bushes, anti-roll bar bushes, and drop links can wear out over time.

5. **Service History**:
- Ideally, look for a car with comprehensive service history. This should include oil changes, differential and gearbox maintenance, and timing belt replacements.
- Lack of service history can be a red flag, but sometimes you have to rely on other indicators.

6. **Engine Numbers**:
- Check if the engine numbers match the expected range for an Evo VI. Sometimes engines get swapped, so it's good to verify.

7. **Test Drive Vigorously**:
- Take corners hard on both sides during the test drive. Listen for any unusual noises or grinding from the rear.
- Remember, these cars were built for spirited driving, so don't be shy!

In summary, rust prevention, AYC functionality, and thorough maintenance are key.
*****
Generations
Ah, the **Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution**—a rally-bred legend that carved its way through tarmac and gravel alike! Let's rev up the engine of knowledge and explore the generations of this iconic sports sedan:

1. **Evolution I (1992–1994)**:
- The Evo saga began with the **Evolution I**. It strutted onto the scene in 1992, based on the fifth-generation Lancer platform.
- Imagine it as the rally world's eager rookie, ready to prove itself.

2. **Evolution II (1993)**:
- A quick follow-up, the **Evolution II**, continued the legacy in 1993.
- It refined the formula, tweaking performance and handling.

3. **Evolution III (1995)**:
- By 1995, the **Evolution III** was in full swing.
- It danced through rally stages, showcasing improved aerodynamics and power.

4. **Evolution IV (1996)**:
- The **Evolution IV** (1996) marked a significant step forward.
- It switched to the sixth-generation Lancer platform, gaining more power and sharper handling.

5. **Evolution V (1998)**:
- The **Evolution V** (1998) continued the evolution (pun intended).
- It fine-tuned the AWD system and became a cult favorite.

6. **Evolution VI (1999)**:
- The **Evolution VI** (1999) kept the momentum going.
- Rally victories and street cred—this one had it all.

7. **Evolution VII (2001)**:
- The **Evolution VII** (2001) brought fresh styling and more power.
- It was like the Evo saying, "Hey, I'm here to dominate!"

8. **Evolution VIII (2003)**:
- The **Evolution VIII** (2003) crossed oceans, landing in the US.
- Subaru's WRX had competition, and enthusiasts rejoiced.

9. **Evolution IX (2005)**:
- The **Evolution IX** (2005) cranked up the power.
- Unofficially, it danced above the advertised figures.

10. **Evolution X (2007–2016)**:
- The **Evolution X** (2007) was the grand finale.
- It blended performance and sophistication, waving goodbye in 2016.

So, from the Evo I's eager steps to the Evo X's final bow, each generation left its tire marks in automotive history.
*****
Trim Levels
Let's explore the trim levels of the **Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI (Evo VI)**—that rally-bred beast that left its mark on both tarmac and gravel. Buckle up, my fellow enthusiast, as we dive into the Evo VI lineup:

1. **GSR (Grand Sport Rally)**:
- The **GSR** trim was the bread-and-butter Evo VI.
- It combined performance with daily drivability, making it a popular choice.
- Imagine it as the Evo you'd happily take to work during the week and unleash on twisty roads over the weekend.

2. **RSX (Rally Sport Xtreme)**:
- The **RSX** variant leaned more toward the rally side of things.
- It shed some creature comforts to save weight and enhance agility.
- Picture it as the Evo VI that dreams of dirt trails and hairpin turns.

3. **Tommi Makinen Edition**:
- Ah, the **Tommi Makinen Edition**—named after the legendary Finnish rally driver himself.
- This special edition Evo VI celebrated Makinen's four consecutive WRC drivers' championships with Mitsubishi.
- It featured unique styling cues, including the iconic red-and-silver livery.
- Imagine owning a piece of rally history—a tribute to the man who danced Evo VI through treacherous stages.

So, whether you preferred the versatile GSR, the stripped-down RSX, or the homage-filled Tommi Makinen Edition, the Evo VI had something for every petrol-loving heart.
*****
Engines
The heartbeats of the **Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution**—that rally-bred legend that left its tire marks on both tarmac and gravel. Buckle up, because we're about to dive into the engine lineup:

1. **Evolution I (1992–1994)**:
- The inaugural Evo, the **Evolution I**, featured a **2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine** known as the **4G63T**.
- This powerplant churned out around **250 horsepower**—a respectable start for the Evo saga.

2. **Evolution II (1994–1995)**:
- The **Evolution II** continued the legacy with the same **2.0-liter 4G63T engine**.
- However, it received a slight bump in power, reaching approximately **260 horsepower**.

3. **Evolution III (1995–1996)**:
- The **Evolution III** danced through rally stages with its trusty **2.0-liter 4G63T engine**.
- This time, it flexed around **270 horsepower**—more oomph for spirited driving.

4. **Evolution IV (1996–1998)**:
- The **Evolution IV** switched to the sixth-generation Lancer platform.
- Under the hood? You guessed it—the **2.0-liter 4G63T engine**.
- Power output? Around **280 horsepower**—a sweet spot for enthusiasts.

5. **Evolution V (1998–1999)**:
- The **Evolution V** continued the turbocharged tradition.
- It fine-tuned the AWD system and kept the **2.0-liter 4G63T engine** singing at approximately **280 horsepower**.

6. **Evolution VI (1999–2001)**:
- The **Evolution VI**—a rally rocket with character.
- Same engine, but this time it danced above **280 horsepower**—unofficially, of course.

7. **Evolution VII (2001–2003)**:
- The **Evolution VII** brought fresh styling and more power.
- The **2.0-liter 4G63T engine** roared at around **300 horsepower**.

8. **Evolution VIII (2003–2005)**:
- The **Evolution VIII** crossed oceans, landing in the US.
- It cranked up the boost, delivering approximately **280–290 horsepower**.

9. **Evolution IX (2005–2007)**:
- The **Evolution IX**—a refined beast.
- The **2.0-liter 4G63T engine** allegedly pushed beyond **300 horsepower**.

10. **Evolution X (2007–2016)**:
- The grand finale—the **Evolution X**.
- It blended performance and sophistication, waving goodbye with a **2.0-liter 4B11T engine**.
- Power? Options ranged from **300 to 360 horsepower** depending on the market.

So, whether you're a fan of the classic 4G63T or the modern 4B11T, the Evo's engines were always ready to deliver adrenaline-fueled joy!
*****
Spares
When it comes to keeping your **Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution** (or Evo, as we affectionately call it) in top shape, finding the right spares is crucial. Fear not—I've scoured the automotive landscape for you, and here are some places in the UK and Ireland where you can track down those elusive Evo parts:

1. **Ross Sport**:
- **Location**: Unit 1 Faraday Business Park, Littleport, Ely CB6 1PE, United Kingdom.
- **What They Offer**: Ross Sport is Europe's largest supplier of Evo performance parts. From turbos to engines and standard components, they've got you covered. Whether you're after aftermarket upgrades or original equipment, they're your go-to source.
- **Hours**: Monday to Friday, 09:00–18:00.
- **Contact**: Give them a ring at 01945 580066.
- **Website**: [Ross Sport](https://www.rosssport.com/)

2. **Viamoto Mitsubishi Car Spares**:
- **What They Offer**: Viamoto specializes in Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution parts. They offer free shipping to the UK mainland (excluding Highlands & Islands) for orders over £200.00 (excluding OEM parts).
- **Range**: They cover Evo models from the early Evo I (CD9A) to the Evo X (CZ4A).
- **Website**: [Viamoto Mitsubishi Car Spares](https://www.viamoto.co.uk/categories.php?cat=Mitsubishi+Lancer+EVO+Parts)

3. **AutoVillage**:
- **What They Offer**: AutoVillage is an online platform where you can find both original refurbished Evo parts and used Mitsubishi car parts. They have listings for nearly new Mitsubishi parts and Evo spares.
- **Website**: [Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Car Parts & Spares - AutoVillage](https://www.autovillage.co.uk/car-parts/mitsubishi/lancer-evolution)

4. **Mishimoto**:
- **What They Offer**: Mishimoto specializes in performance parts. While they cater to various makes and models, they also have a section specifically for Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution performance parts.
- **Website**: [Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Performance Parts - Mishimoto](https://www.mishimoto.co.uk/automotive/shop-make-model-year/mitsubishi-lancer-evolution-performance-parts.html)

5. **Torque GT**:
- **What They Offer**: Torque GT provides JDM parts, including those for the Lancer Evo 7–9. If you're looking for authentic Japanese-market components, they're worth checking out.
- **Website**: [Lancer Evo 7-9 - Parts Catalogue - Torque GT](https://www.torque-gt.co.uk/jdm-parts/select-car/mitsubishi/lancer-evo-7-9.html)
*****
Specialists

**NORTHERN IRELAND SPECIALISTS FOR MITSUBISHI VEHICLES**
Mitsubishi vehicle mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland

McMillan Specialist Cars:
o These folks are your one-stop shop for all things Mitsubishi. From oil changes to engine rebuilds, they’ve got you covered.
o Location: Unit 10, Plasketts Close Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN
o Opening Hours: Monday to Friday (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM), Saturday (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
o Phone: 028 9335 4911
o They’ve earned a solid 4.8-star rating from the car-loving community.
o Visit McMillan Specialist Cars
2. Rd Auto Repairs:
o With 18 years of experience, Rd Auto Repairs knows their way around Mitsubishis. They’ve worked both in dealerships and independent garages.
o Their specialty? Peugeot and Citroens. They can handle cars, small vans, and even motorcycles.
o One satisfied customer said, “Great work done. Would highly recommend.”
o Check out Rd Auto Repairs
3. Mobile Vehicle Service Ni:
o These mobile mechanics have 18 years under their belts. They started with Renault and now cover a variety of makes and models.
o Their detailed pre-purchase inspections are like giving your potential Mitsubishi a thorough health check.
o A happy customer praised their service and attention to detail.
o Explore Mobile Vehicle Service Ni
4. Pc Autos:
o Pc Autos operates as a reliable mobile mechanic service. They’ll come to you—whether it’s your driveway or a local car park.
o Their motto: “We’ve got…,” which sounds mysterious and intriguing, doesn’t it?
o One customer appreciated their punctuality and brilliant service.
o Discover Pc Autos
5. Mcneice Auto And Plant Works:
o Based in Lisburn, Mcneice Auto And Plant Works handle cars, vans, 4x4 jeeps, lorries, and even agricultural machinery.
o With 26 years of experience, they’re like the wise sages of vehicle maintenance.
o Learn more about Mcneice Auto And Plant Works
Remember, these skilled mechanics are like the guardians of your Mitsubishi’s well-being. Whether it’s routine maintenance or a mysterious rattle, they’ve got the magic touch. 🌟 So, go forth, fellow car enthusiast, and keep those Mitsubishis running smoothly!


Mitsubishi vehicle mechanics in County Armagh, Northern Ireland—Mitsubishi Specialist Ni:
o Location: Diamond House, 16 Crossan Road, Newry BT34 2HY
o Phone: 028 3085 1764
o These folks stock new and used genuine Mitsubishi vehicle parts. Whether you need a major service or a specific component, they’ve got you covered.
o Visit Mitsubishi Specialist Ni
2. Donnelly Group Head Office:
o Location: 59 Moy Road, Dungannon BT71 7DT
o Phone: 028 8772 2887
o As part of the Donnelly Group—the largest independent dealer of new and used cars, vans, and 4x4s in Northern Ireland—their Mitsubishi showrooms offer expert advice and peace of mind.
o Friendly and knowledgeable sales staff await your questions!
o Discover Donnelly Group Head Office
3. Beyond Performance 4x4:
o Location: 10 Hydepark Road, Newtownabbey BT36 4PY
o Phone: 028 9084 7040
o While they specialize in Land Rover vehicles, their experience extends to other makes and models. Lowering ownership costs for Land Rover and Range Rover owners is their mission.
o Explore Beyond Performance 4x4
4. Comiskey Engineering Works:
o Location: Portadown, Northern Ireland
o These engine reconditioning and repair specialists have been at it for over 50 years. They cater to customers throughout Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, and mainland UK.
o Learn more about Comiskey Engineering Works
5. ClickMechanic:
o If you’re looking for mobile mechanics, ClickMechanic has you covered. They operate in Northern Ireland and can arrange diagnostic and repair work.
o From Rd Auto Repairs to A.G. AUTOS and Mobile Vehicle Service Ni, they’ve got a network of skilled technicians.
o Find Mitsubishi mechanics on ClickMechanic

Mitsubishi vehicle mechanics in County Down, Northern Ireland—
1. Mitsubishi Specialist Ni:
o Location: Diamond House, 16 Crossan Road, Newry BT34 2HY
o Phone: 028 3085 1764
o These folks stock new and used genuine Mitsubishi vehicle parts. Whether you need a major service or a specific component, they’ve got you covered.
o With fully trained technicians, complimentary health checks, and even a courtesy car option, they’re committed to providing quality Mitsubishi servicing in Belfast and beyond.
o Visit Mitsubishi Specialist Ni
2. SERE SEAT Service:
o Location: 7-13 Boucher Road, Belfast BT12 6HR
o Phone: 028 9020 5100
o While SERE Motors specializes in SEAT vehicles, they’re also Mitsubishi experts. Their fully trained technicians offer Mitsubishi servicing and maintenance.
o Enjoy free health check videos, complimentary wash and vac, and the convenience of drop-off and pick-up services.
o Discover SERE SEAT Service
3. SERE Motors Lisburn:
o Location: Lissue Industrial Estate West, Moira Road, Lisburn, Co Antrim BT28 2RE
o Phone: 028 9020 5100
o In partnership with SEAT for over 20 years, SERE Motors knows their way around Mitsubishis too. They offer a wide selection of new and used SEAT and Mitsubishi cars.
o As a SEAT approved dealer, they ensure all cars are thoroughly checked and in excellent condition.
o Explore SERE Motors Lisburn



Mitsubishi vehicle mechanics in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland—the wizards who wield spanners and diagnostic tools to keep those Mitsubishis purring like contented cats.
1. Greg Mitchell Motors:
o Location: 298 Melmount Road, Strabane BT82 9JG
o Phone: 028 8165 9966
o Greg Mitchell Motors is a family-run business proudly offering vehicles on the Motability scheme since 2017. They currently offer a range of SUVs, smaller cars, and 4WD vehicles across the MG, Suzuki, and KGM range.
o With a solid 4.9-star rating from the car-loving community, they’re committed to quality service.
o Visit Greg Mitchell Motors


Mitsubishi vehicle mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland—
Lloyd Cooke Motors Ltd:
o Location: 53 Lismacarol Road, Londonderry BT47 3LZ
o Phone: 028 7130 2100
o Lloyd Cooke Motors has been in business for an impressive 45 years. They specialize in car body repairs and accident repair services.
o As a BSI 10125 (Kitemark) award recipient, they’re committed to quality workmanship.
o Visit Lloyd Cooke Motors Ltd
2. A.G. AUTOS:
o Location: Mobile service in Ballyclare
o Phone: Mobile service (arranges to come for diagnostic and repair work)
o With 10 years of experience, A.G. AUTOS tailors their expertise to your specific needs. Whether it’s diagnostics or repairs, they’ve got you covered.
o One satisfied customer praised their pre-purchase inspection.
o Explore A.G. AUTOS
3. Mobile Vehicle Service Ni:
o Location: Mobile service in Belfast
o Phone: 07742 055412
o With 18 years of experience, Mobile Vehicle Service Ni offers detailed pre-purchase inspections. They’ll help you make informed decisions when buying a Mitsubishi.
o Another happy customer appreciated their thorough service.
o Discover Mobile Vehicle Service Ni
4. Rd Auto Repairs:
o Location: Belfast BT12 7BN
o Phone: 18 years of experience
o Rd Auto Repairs specializes in Peugeot and Citroens. Their expertise extends to various makes and models.
o A satisfied customer praised their great work and highly recommended them.
o Check out Rd Auto Repairs
5. Kevin Mahon:
o Location: Derry
o Phone: 20 years of experience
o J & K Auto Services, run by certified technicians, provides excellent maintenance, servicing, and repairs. While they specialize in Honda and Mitsubishi Motors, they’ll service any make or model.
o A customer was impressed with their professionalism and attention to detail.
o Learn more about Kevin Mahon

Mitsubishi vehicle mechanics in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland
1. Donnelly Group Mitsubishi (Dungannon):
o Location: 59 Moy Road, Dungannon, Co Tyrone, BT71 7DT
o Phone: 028 8744 0487
o Donnelly Group Mitsubishi supplies approved used Mitsubishi cars and commercial vehicles to customers right across Northern Ireland and beyond. Whether you’re eyeing a sleek Mirage or a rugged L200 pickup, they’ve got you covered.
o Visit Donnelly Group Mitsubishi (Dungannon)
2. Donnelly Group Mitsubishi (Mallusk):
o Location: 8a Trench Road, Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim, BT36 4TY
o Phone: 028 9590 7894
o If you’re closer to Mallusk, fear not! Donnelly Group Mitsubishi has a showroom there too. From the city-slicker ASX to the versatile Outlander, they’ve got the full Mitsubishi range waiting for you.
o Explore Donnelly Group Mitsubishi (Mallusk)
3. Dungannon Autobody Centre:
o Location: Dungannon (Specialist bodyshop)
o If your Mitsubishi needs some TLC after an accident, Dungannon Autobody Centre is the place to go. With over 40 years of expertise in accident repairs, resprays, and bodywork services, they’ll have your car looking pristine again.
o Learn more about Dungannon Autobody Centre

*****
Racing
The **Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI**—a rally-bred hero that brought motorsport capability to the road! Let's dive into its racing adventures and feel the adrenaline rush:

The **Evolution VI** was a force to be reckoned with, especially in the world of rallying. Here's the scoop:

1. **Tommi Mäkinen**: If there's one name synonymous with the Evo VI, it's Tommi Mäkinen. This Finnish rally maestro piloted the Evolution VI to glory. In the 1999 season, he secured four wins, which ultimately clinched his **fourth consecutive World Rally Championship (WRC) drivers' title**.

2. **Monte Carlo Magic**: One of the most iconic victories for the Evo VI was at the **Monte Carlo Rally**. Mäkinen took the checkered flag there, and it was a moment that Mitsubishi Motors had dreamed of for years. The car sported a bright red and white Marlboro livery—a sight that still gives fans goosebumps.

3. **Active Differential**: The Evo VI benefited from the newly introduced **active differential**, which enhanced its traction and handling. This technological wizardry made it even more formidable on the twisty stages.

4. **UK Drag Race**: Fast-forward to more recent times—just last year, in fact. A trio of Lancer Evos hit the drag strip in the UK. The Evo VI, specifically the **Tommi Makinen Edition**, lined up alongside its younger siblings. And guess what? The newest model in the trio managed to snatch victory.


**Tommi Mäkinen**, the Finnish rally virtuoso who danced with gravel, snow, and adrenaline! Let's peel back the layers of his driving style like a well-executed Scandinavian flick on a hairpin bend:

1. **Fearless and High-Risk**: Picture this: Mäkinen behind the wheel, eyes locked on the road ahead, heart pounding in sync with the engine's roar. His driving style? Fearless. He pushed the limits—sometimes beyond—because he believed that's where victory lay.

2. **Smooth Precision**: While some rally drivers wrestled their cars like tempests, Mäkinen favored a smoother approach. His inputs were precise, almost surgical. No unnecessary drama—just calculated finesse. It's like he whispered to the car, "We've got this."

3. **Handbrake Wizardry**: Mäkinen was an early adopter of using the handbrake to pivot his car around tight corners. Imagine him flicking that lever, the rear end stepping out just enough to nail the perfect line. It was balletic—a tango between man, machine, and gravel.

4. **Pacenotes and Intuition**: Mäkinen embraced the pacenote system—a co-driver's rapid-fire instructions about upcoming turns. But he also had an innate sense of the road. His intuition whispered, "Left 3, tightens into right 4," and he flowed with it.

5. **Adaptability**: Like a chameleon, he adjusted to each car's personality. When Mitsubishi handed him the Evolution VI, he molded it to his will. The longer wheelbase? He adapted. Less sliding, more precision? He mastered it.

6. **All or Nothing**: His stats tell tales of extremes. Either a podium finish or a dramatic DNF (Did Not Finish). No middle ground. It was pedal-to-the-metal commitment or a spectacular exit.

7. **Legacy and Lancer Evo**: Mäkinen's legacy isn't just about trophies; it's etched in the asphalt. Mitsubishi immortalized him with the limited-edition Lancer Evo Tommi Mäkinen edition—a nod to his impact on rallying and the brand.

So, if you ever find yourself on a twisty road, imagine Mäkinen's ghost riding shotgun. Feel the car respond to your touch, trust your instincts, and remember: "You just go absolutely flat out everywhere."