Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition
The Tommi Makinen Edition (TME) was a special version of the Evolution VI created to celebrate Mitsubishi's partnership with Tommi Makinen, who won four consecutive World Rally Championship drivers' titles (1996-1999) in Lancer Evolution-based cars. The TME was the ultimate expression of the Evo VI — the most focused, most driver-oriented Evolution yet.
The 4G63T engine produced the familiar 280 PS at 6,500 rpm, but the TME received a titanium-aluminide turbine wheel in its TD05HRA turbocharger, reducing rotational inertia and improving response. The engine also featured a revised ECU map with slightly more aggressive boost timing, and a front-mounted oil cooler for improved thermal management.
The chassis received TME-specific upgrades including revised Evo VI RS-spec suspension with firmer springs and dampers, quicker-ratio steering, and a close-ratio five-speed gearbox. AYC (Active Yaw Control) was retained, providing electronically controlled torque vectoring at the rear axle that improved corner-exit traction and adjustability.
The TME's most distinctive visual element was its red-painted center console and red Recaro seats, along with unique TME badging and Makinen's signature on the engine cover. The front bumper was revised with a central air intake for the oil cooler, and white or red body colors with contrasting highlights gave the TME a distinctive appearance.
Driving the TME was an intensity multiplier. The titanium turbine spooled faster, the closer gear ratios kept the engine on boost, and the firmer suspension responded to inputs with greater immediacy. The AYC system's rear torque vectoring allowed the driver to power out of corners with astonishing traction, rotating the car on the throttle in a way that simulated the effect of a rear-biased torque split.
Approximately 2,500 TME units were produced for the Japanese domestic market, making it one of the rarer standard-production Evolutions. Today, the TME is the most sought-after Evo VI variant and one of the most collectible Evolutions from any generation, valued for its unique specification, WRC heritage, and increasingly recognized significance in rally history.
Verify TME-specific equipment: titanium turbine turbo, red Recaros, red center console, TME badging, close-ratio gearbox, front oil cooler. The 4G63T is prone to crankwalk — check thrust bearing play. AYC pump and system must function correctly (expensive to repair). Rust in rear arches and sills. Unmodified examples are extremely rare and command strong premiums.
Produced at Mitsubishi's Mizushima plant in Japan in 2000. Approximately 2,500 units were manufactured for the Japanese domestic market. Named for four-time WRC champion Tommi Makinen.