The Evo VI: A Piece of Racing History

A Y2K classic, the Evo VI is a street racing legend that made a name for itself very quickly. Learn more about Mitsubishi’s street-racer, and why it came with four-wheel drive.
Written by Jason Crosby
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
background
Mitsubishi
established a name for itself making high-quality, affordable race-oriented cars, and the Evo VI was perhaps its best model. No other car that followed quite captured the dramatic, aggressive styling of the Evo VI. 
While other Mitsubishi models enjoyed increased horsepower and better transmissions, the VI holds a special place in the hearts of every Mitsubishi fan. The Evo VI finds the perfect balance between early 00s nostalgia and modern street racing sensibility—and it was even featured in the
Fast and Furious
franchise. 

Evolving from V to VI

Mitsubishi ended 1999 with a bang, as the Evo VI came into production. This work of art pushed the limits of Japan’s horsepower regulations, with
Evo
detailing that it pumped out 276 hp when redlining at 6500 RPMs. 
The Evo VI also enjoyed a bigger intercooler, oil-cooler, and radiator when compared to the Evo V. It also came outfitted with a classic five-speed
manual transmission
(now hotly desired by fans of
street racing
cars) and had a maximum torque rating of 274 lb-ft. 
Car critics praised its supple suspension, minimal body roll, and snappy transmission that gave drivers the sense that they were hugging the road as they zipped around winding roads and highways. 

What made the Tommi Mäkinen edition so special?

Geared toward customers who wanted even more performance capabilities for their Evo VI, the Tommi Mäkinen edition took things up a notch. 
Although it had the same engine and transmission, the Tommi Mäkinen edition of the Evo VI had a titanium engine turbine that sat a few inches lower to the road. It came decked out in full red paintwork with WRC-aping stripes. Mitsubishi also revised the front bumper and added front intake vents. 

Why did the Evo VI have four-wheel drive? 

Surprisingly, this sports car actually had four-wheel drive—but not for offroading. In fact, this vehicle used four-wheel drive to improve the car’s acceleration and handling abilities when cornering. 
A feature known as Active Yaw Control sent power to both the rear differential and the front differential. This was a unique feature at the time but has since been mimicked by other carmakers, including Dodge, BMW, and others. 

How much does an Evo VI cost today? 

The Evo VI, being almost 20 years old and not yet considered a classic car, can go for between $6,000-15,000. Its price will depend on the car’s odometer reading, the number of repairs that have been done, and the vehicle’s general condition.
Even though newer Evo’s may have more powerful engines and higher-quality modern cabin amenities, purists may appreciate the Evo VI’s aggressive, race-oriented interior and exterior. 

Let Jerry help you find great rates for your Mitsubishi 

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