Stock Number: 4403

The EVO III is the most recent legal variant of this prized AWD Mitsubishi rally rocket. This updated model benefitted debuted in Feburay of 1995 and benefits a sizable power upgrade and a few other minor tweaks, which you can feel from behind the wheel. Refinished in an eye-catching Laser Blue, this Evolution is offered with only 111K verified miles. Featuring new aero, which aided cooling and downforce, the body is in good shape other than the normal slight scratches, dings, and chips associated with normal use. Known for its handling prowess, boy-racer styling, and inexpensive and simple power upgrades, this rare Lancer is a performance superstar and bonafide Japanese Classic.

Understanding the Lancer Evolution's humble roots is important when you assess the cabin. Mitsubishi took its standard econobox sedan and pumped it full of power. The interior got basic warming over but is largely akin to its downmarket sibling. A three-spoke leather Momo wheel and Recaro front buckets add some sportiness to the cockpit. The bolstering is quite aggressive and holds both passenger and driver snug when transitioning through some twisties. An adjustable steering column makes accomodating drivers large and small a snap. The dash, like the rest of the interior, is colored gray, and devoid of any major imperfections such as cracks and discoloration. Optional power equipment includes power-folding mirrors, locks, and a one-touch driver widow. The climate system is fully digital and mounted atop a newer Clarion head unit which includes a USB unit. The speakers are powered and if you don't like to hear the whoosh of a turbo, you can crank the tunes. The rear bench is in good shape, and the door cards and carpet have been well maintained. The original carpet mats were retained still in the vehicle when it arrived in the US; we have cleaned them and included them with the sale. Another neat find was the factory books which we are keeping safe in the glove box.

The chassis is bolstered by one of the most legendary and stout drivetrains. Mistubishi's lauded 4G63 is transversely mounted in the engine bay and supplies power to all four wheels through a proper five-speed manual gearbox. Lauded for its ability to make tons of power with minimal cost, the 2.0L is unmodified in this particular example. The engine has received a fresh oil and filter service and isn't scheduled maintenance for the next three thousand miles. Startup is hassle-free and the engine idles and revs as it should. Higher compression ration and a larger turbocharger resulted in a twenty horsepower bump over the previous years' car. To ensure that the turbo stays happy, we have replaced the oil line which has a tendency to develop a leak. The transmission is geared for US interstate speeds and rows through all five forward gears confidently. Steering inputs are precise, and the suspension is livable for daily driving. Cornering is impressive compared to newer sports cars, and corner exit grip in incredible when accelerating out of a turn. The brakes do a better job at coping with higher temperatures as larger cooling ducts from the front air dam supply much-needed relief from the heat they produce. The understated, white five-spoke OZ alloys look great against the blue paint and are all fitted with newly installed all-season rubber.

For the true enthusiast who cares about performance, the EVO III is an incredible value. This little Lancer is an AWD, turbocharged, stickshift hellion that is a blast to drive and a savvy investment. Legally imported, this turn-key EVO is a Japanese Classic unlike any other.

*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB complaint first. CARB certifications will have to be performed within the state. Depending on the vehicle and any existing modifications will affect the pricing. Typically CARB compliance will range between 5-10K. Additional information can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.