Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Evo VI TME
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is one of the greatest rivalries in automotive history — the eternal opponent of the Subaru Impreza WRX STI. Born from Mitsubishi's WRC ambitions, each Evolution was a rapid-fire improvement over the last, with new versions arriving almost annually.
The Evo VI (1999-2001) represented the peak of the second generation (Evo IV-VI). It was powered by the legendary 4G63T — a 2.0-liter iron-block inline-four with a single turbocharger producing 280 PS. Like the Subaru, this was the gentleman's agreement figure, with real output estimated at 300+ hp. The 4G63 was one of the most overbuilt four-cylinder engines ever, with massive tuning potential.
What set the Evo apart from the STI was its advanced AWD technology. The Active Yaw Control (AYC) system could vary torque between the rear wheels, effectively steering the car from behind. Combined with the Active Center Differential (ACD), the Evo could rotate into corners with an agility that seemed to defy physics. This technology was directly derived from the WRC car.
The Tommi Mäkinen Edition (TME) was the crown jewel. Named after Mitsubishi's Finnish WRC driver who won four consecutive world championships (1996-1999), the TME featured a redesigned front bumper with larger air intakes, titanium turbo, close-ratio gearbox, revised AYC, Eibach springs, and special Ralliart interior trim.
The Evo was JDM-only until the Evo VII (when limited UK/European sales began) and didn't reach the US until the Evo VIII (2003). GC8 STI and Evo VI TME is the classic matchup that defined an era of Japanese performance.
JDM imports are the only route for Evo VI. The TME commands a 30-50% premium over standard Evo VI. Key checks: 4G63 crankwalk (catastrophic bearing failure — listen for knocking), transfer case and AYC unit condition (expensive to repair), turbo condition, and clutch wear. Many Evos have been heavily modified and raced — a stock TME is extremely rare and valuable. Rust is less common than on Subarus but check the undercarriage. Verify TME authenticity via chassis plate.
Evo VI was produced 1999-2001. The TME (Tommi Mäkinen Edition) was available from January 2000. Like all Evos, it was a JDM-only homologation special. Variants: GSR (full equipment), RS (lightweight/rally), TME. Mitsubishi produced approximately 5,000 Evo VIs per year. The Evo series ran from I (1992) to X (2015), totaling ten generations.