Japan vs Japan — 2001 vs 1998
| Lancer Evolution Evolution VII MR | Lancer Evolution V (CP9A) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 275 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,997 cc | 1,997 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.4 sec | 4.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.0 sec | 13.4 sec |
| Weight | 2,998 lbs | 2,778 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,625 mm | 2,510 mm |
| Length | 4,455 mm | 4,350 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 6,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $70,000 | $90,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Evolution VII MR brings quicker acceleration, better value to the table, and the 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution V (CP9A) answers with lighter weight, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. The 2001 and 1998 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Evolution VII MR producing 280 hp and the 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution V (CP9A) delivering 280 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16-valve turbo (4G63T) displacing 1,997 cc, while the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Turbocharged with 1,997 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Evolution VII MR edges ahead at 4.4 seconds versus 4.7 seconds. The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 220 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.