The Early Years

The first generation of the Mitsubishi Lancer, introduced in 1973, was a humble start for the car that would eventually become a performance icon. The initial model came with a 1.2-liter inline-four engine producing 68 horsepower and 72 lb-ft of torque. It wasn’t exactly a powerhouse, but it got the job done.

The second generation (1982-1991) brought some much-needed improvements to the table. A new 1.6-liter SOHC engine delivered 95 horsepower and 93 lb-ft of torque, making the Lancer slightly more agile and responsive. The suspension was also tweaked, with stiffer springs and shocks improving the car’s handling.

The third generation (1991-2000) marked a significant turning point in the Lancer’s performance evolution. A new 2.0-liter DOHC engine produced 140 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful inline-fours of its time. The GSR model featured a sport-tuned suspension, stiffer springs, and a more aggressive aerodynamic package. This generation cemented the Lancer’s reputation as a performance-oriented car.

These early years laid the foundation for the Lancer’s future performance enhancements, setting the stage for the power surge to come in later generations.

The Performance Boost

The fourth generation Lancer, introduced in 2000, marked a significant turning point for Mitsubishi’s performance-oriented model. Building on the success of its predecessors, the new Lancer boasted improved engine technologies, suspension upgrades, and sleek aerodynamic enhancements. The introduction of the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system enabled the 1.8-liter GDI engine to produce 140 horsepower, a notable increase from the previous generation’s 130 horsepower.

The suspension underwent significant revisions, with the adoption of MacPherson Struts and a revised steering geometry that improved handling and responsiveness. The Lancer’s aerodynamics also received attention, with the addition of active grille shutters and an optimized body shape that reduced drag by 20%.

These enhancements resulted in a more agile and responsive driving experience. The Lancer’s acceleration was noticeably improved, with the 0-60 mph sprint taking approximately 8.5 seconds. Its top speed remained electronically limited to 130 km/h (80 mph), but the car’s newfound agility made it a joy to drive on twisty roads.

The suspension upgrades, in particular, paid dividends when tackling corners. The Lancer’s improved body roll and reduced understeer allowed drivers to push harder into turns, making for a more engaging driving experience. Overall, the fourth generation Lancer set the stage for even greater performance enhancements in the fifth generation, which would follow shortly after.

Turbocharged Power

The Evo VII (2001) and Evo VIII (2003) marked a significant turning point in the Lancer’s performance evolution, as they introduced turbocharging technology to the lineup. The addition of a turbocharger allowed for a substantial increase in power output, which had a direct impact on the car’s acceleration and overall driving experience.

The Evo VII’s 2.0L turbocharged engine produced 276 horsepower, a significant jump from its predecessors. This additional power enabled the car to accelerate from 0-60mph in just 4.7 seconds, making it one of the quickest production cars of its time. The turbocharger also improved the car’s mid-range torque, allowing for quicker acceleration and more responsive handling.

The Evo VIII built upon this success, with a revised version of the same engine producing 287 horsepower. This slight increase in power output was accompanied by significant improvements to the car’s suspension and aerodynamics, making it even more agile and stable at high speeds. The result was a car that could attack corners with precision and authority, while still delivering blistering acceleration on the straights.

The introduction of turbocharging technology not only improved the Lancer’s performance but also transformed its driving experience. With its increased power output and responsive handling, the Evo VII and VIII were capable of delivering thrilling drive dynamics that few other cars could match. This made them popular choices among enthusiasts and rally drivers alike, cementing their place as some of the most iconic and beloved cars in the Lancer’s history.

The Latest Generation

The Lancer’s latest generations, from 2014 to present, mark a significant shift towards improved performance and handling. The Evolution Final Edition (2015) and Ralliart (2012) models stand out for their exceptional power output and agility.

The Evolution Final Edition boasts a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 237 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. This results in a 0-60 mph time of just 5.7 seconds, making it one of the fastest Lancers to date. The Ralliart model features a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine generating 237 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque as well, with a 0-60 mph time of 6.1 seconds.

Both models feature advanced technology, such as Mitsubishi’s S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) system, which provides optimal traction and stability. The Evolution Final Edition also features a lightweight aluminum hood, rear spoiler, and 18-inch BBS forged alloy wheels, further enhancing its performance capabilities.

Key statistics for the Evolution Final Edition include:

  • Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
  • Power output: 237 horsepower @ 6,750 rpm
  • Torque output: 253 lb-ft @ 3,750 rpm
  • 0-60 mph time: 5.7 seconds
  • Top speed: electronically limited to 140 mph

For the Ralliart model:

  • Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
  • Power output: 237 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
  • Torque output: 253 lb-ft @ 3,750 rpm
  • 0-60 mph time: 6.1 seconds
  • Top speed: electronically limited to 140 mph

These latest generations of the Lancer demonstrate a marked improvement in performance and handling, making them a testament to Mitsubishi’s commitment to innovation and excellence.

Ranking the Performance Evolution

The Lancer’s performance evolution has been marked by significant milestones, as it transitioned from a humble economy car to a sporty performer. From 2008 to 2014, the Lancer Evolution X solidified its reputation as a rally-bred beast, boasting a 291-horsepower turbocharged engine and impressive acceleration (0-60mph in 4.7 seconds). Its handling was equally impressive, thanks to its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and stiffer suspension.

Key achievements during this period include: * A top speed of 155mph * Quarter-mile time of 14.1 seconds at 96mph * 0.93 g’s on the skidpad (a testament to its impressive grip) * A 4-motor, 2-speed transmission that enabled seamless transitions between gears

While the Evolution X was a dominant force in rallying and on the track, it also faced stiff competition from other high-performance cars. To stay competitive, Mitsubishi introduced the Lancer Ralliart (2012), which offered similar performance to the Evolution X at a lower price point. Its 237-horsepower turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension made it an attractive option for enthusiasts on a budget.

The Ralliart’s performance metrics are impressive in their own right: * 0-60mph in 5.2 seconds * Quarter-mile time of 14.7 seconds at 94mph * 0.86 g’s on the skidpad

While not as extreme as the Evolution X, the Ralliart offered a more accessible and affordable way to experience Mitsubishi’s rally-bred performance.

In conclusion, the Mitsubishi Lancer has undergone a remarkable journey in terms of its performance evolution. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a high-performance vehicle, the Lancer has consistently demonstrated its ability to adapt and improve over time. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the Lancer’s performance development, highlighting its key milestones and achievements along the way. By understanding the Lancer’s performance evolution, car enthusiasts can gain valuable insights into the car’s history and appreciate its continued relevance in the market today.