Lancer Evolution IX unleashed
So many roman numerals never meant so much performance. Biggest changes for the IX is the use of Mitsubishi's MIVEC
variable valve timing in the intake system and improvements to the 
turbocharger to increase torque and create a better response across
the rev range. If you opt for the top of the line GSR Evo IX, mid-range torque ratings increase to 290 ft lbs at 3000
rpm and Mitsubishi includes ACD (Active Center Diff), Super AYC (Active Yaw Control) and Sport ABS braking which
adjusts the braking force using information from steering, lateral Gs, and speed sensors. At the rear, an underbody
bumper air diffuser and new rear springs improve rear end stability. The Evo IX goes on sale in Japan on March 3, 2005
at an estimated price from $28,000 to $34,000.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Mark 10:31PM (12/18/2005)
But still no side airbags... on a $34000 sedan... cmon mitsubishi, you lose buyers for the STi since it has the latest safety features. Sure Sport ABS will help with safety, but thats not what its mainly for, and SRS should come before it. Another year of STi victory.
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Whydrive 10:31PM (12/18/2005)
Going off the topic slightly, I'd like to see Subaru roll out an STi version of the Legacy. This would provide some great competition against the Audi S4. The current STi, while sweet in its own right, is too small for my needs. Mitsubishi would never be able to counter this (at least not with the current Galant platform).
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Dusty 10:31PM (12/18/2005)
Mark, in regards to your statement: I'm sure the war between the 2 rally cars will not be won over not having side airbags. Come on, if that's the only thing you can find wrong with the Evo to support your STI loving statement then you haven't read review after review which consistantly states the Evo is the better of the two!
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Mark 10:31PM (12/18/2005)
I meant to say thats a concern for SOME people, and I do love the Evo. Its just that with Mitsubishi's shady business position/situtation I wouldnt buy a mitsu. Also not "every" reviewer finds the Evo to be a better car. Both have their strenths and weaknesses, Road and Track gave it car of the year while Automobile gave the Evo car of the year a year ago, so they are pretty damn equal. Yes, I do have a bias since I love our 05 legacy GT. Does mitsubishi make any other real competitive cars other than the Evo? Alright I dont want to start an argument :P but a lot of people feel the STi is more of a real life (better) car, reliabilty, higher grade interior, etc, while the Evo is a better track car. The Evo's slight performance edge really comes down to the driver. Someone have the link for the Top Gear showdown? Very good info even if they arent for teh USDM models.
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Dusty 10:31PM (12/18/2005)
I do have to agree with you Mark that the STi is more of a "liveable" car compared to the Evo. I have a Mitsu Lancer Ralliart so I am bias as well. They are pretty equal in most categories and I will admit that the STi has a better interior but as far as reliability, they both have flaws and I hear horror stories on both sides but I'd say they're equally reliable. I have to note though, that coming from a rallying perspective when it comes to peformance, Subaru had to go with a 2.4L displacement to get the comparable power of the Evo's 4G63 2.0L. Being a rally fan that confirms the Evo is the better car cause it does more with less, plus staying in the WRC legal 2.0L displacement limits. But I can see your point about the STi and the side airbags when it comes to being a daily driver. If you do find that Top Gear vid, please let me know!
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