Project Evo IX – Part 1 – Suspension And Brakes
By Joey Leh, Photos by the author
When the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution came out in the US, we knew we had to have one. Yeah, to people that aren’t into cars, it looks like a Corolla with a big wing on it. But to us, and other car people, it looks like a pissed-off rally machine. We’ll take that.
Doing our best Tommi Makinen impression made us want one of these babies back when they came out circa 2003 but the stars did not align. That or our wallets, hard to remember. But when the Lancer Evolution IX debuted for the 2006 model year, we made it happen. Versus the previous Evo VIII, the Lancer Evolution IX had different gear ratios, front limited-slip differential, new turbo, MIVEC variable intake valve timing, ACD (active center differential), different seats, new wheels and a revised front end. It also has, in our opinion, a rawer driving feel than the latest Evo X and the very well known 4G63 turbocharged and intercooled inline-four cylinder engine. In the US, the IX is the Evo to have.
So we found ourselves with a turbocharged, all-wheel drive pseudo-sedan that could run 13s stock and handle track days with ease. Naturally, we wanted to ruin it in the pursuit of speed. Stiffer, lower and louder. Comfort is relative.
