1999 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI

Mitsubishi Motors launched the first Evo 1 GSR in 1992 in order to participate in the World Rally Championship. Since it’s introduction, the series has undergone an ongoing evolutionary process. Improvements in handling and engine performance have led from the Evo 1 up to the lastest Evo 7. Thoughout the evolution series the cars have been exclusively sold in Japan & the UK.

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation released the Mitsubishi Evolution 6 throughout Japan on January 2nd, 1999. This special series was developed incorporating the engineering and feedback fostered through the companies active participation in the World Rally Campionship. The Evolution 6 reflects World Rally Champoinship regulations at the time. The car features a number of revised aerodynamic parts on its exterior, improvements to the interior design as well as increased handling stability and cooling performance.

The Lancer EVO 6 is a supercar in its own right. It features a sophisticated four-wheel drive system coupled to a state of the art engine that pumps out over 140HP per liter. A traction control system is in place to keep that snap of oversteer in control. This active yaw contol uses sensors to monitor braking, acceleration, throttle and longitudinal forces. In the event of a driving anomaly, the system automatically adjusts to keep the car in control. This complex system is combined with a center viscous coupling that can adjust the torque to the front and rear wheels. Under normal conditions the torque is split 50/50. During accelleration & corning the torque is adjusted to provide maximum efficiency & safety.

The Lancer Evolution 6 is the last Mitsubishi rally car produced for homologation purposes. After 1998, WRC rules changed to allow cars with more flexible modifications. This has allowed Mitsubishi to create a more modest Evolution 7 compared to it’s rally counterpart. These new rules mean that the last real Lancer Evolution is the 6th. None other will use as much technology devloped specifically for rally racing.

Major Changes from the EVO 5 GSR to the EVO 6 GSR:

– Offset license plate in the front bumper to aid engine cooling and vehicle areodynamics – Twin Wicker-type rear spoilers with adjustable attack angle. – New Recaro seats surrounded by an upgraded blue & black upholstery. – 17 inch wheels designed by OZ – Lower center of gravity. This is done by using new aluminum alloy arms and lengthening the rebound stroke in the rear suspension as well as optimizing strut damping & stabilizer characteristics. – Improved engine cooling with new channels to the pistons and a larger high-volume oil cooler. – New engine ECU New, more efficient titanium turbo – Larger air intake hose and turbocharger intake port. – Upgraded Brembro brake system

Story by Mitsubishi Motor Sports & Supercars.net