Lancer Evolution 3

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution III features turbocharged and intercooled 2.0-liter 4G63 inline-four engine producing 270 PS (266 horsepower/198 kW) at 6,250 rpm with 228 pound-feet (309 Nm) torque at 3,000 rpm through five-speed manual transmission and permanent all-wheel-drive achieving 4.9-second 0-60 mph acceleration and 149 mph (239 km/h) top speed. Engineering specification includes upgraded TDO5-16G6-7 turbocharger with enlarged 68mm compressor (versus 65mm in Evolution II), intercooler water spray system, DOHC 24-valve cylinder head with 8.8:1 compression ratio, and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system managing power distribution establishing rally-derived performance capability in homologation special production sedan manufactured 1995-1996 with approximately 7,000 units produced.

Evolution III represented Mitsubishi continued development of Lancer rally car homologation series following Evolution I and II establishing incremental performance improvements supporting World Rally Championship competition success during dominant Group A era. Platform earned legendary status through genuine motorsport pedigree where production vehicles directly enabled rally competition variants achieving multiple WRC victories establishing Lancer Evolution as iconic performance sedan combining accessibility with genuine racing technology, popular among enthusiasts for turbocharged four-cylinder character, sophisticated all-wheel-drive traction, and strong aftermarket tuning potential where robust 4G63 engine architecture supports significant power increases through bolt-on modifications establishing Evolution III as foundation for various motorsport applications from rally to time attack competition continuing legacy decades after production concluded representing golden era of homologation specials.