Japan vs Japan — 1996 vs 2003
| Lancer Evolution Evolution IV CN9A | Lancer Evolution VIII MR (CT9A) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 295 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,997 cc | 1,997 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.7 sec | 4.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 152 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.3 sec | 13.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,778 lbs | 3,086 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,510 mm | 2,625 mm |
| Length | 4,330 mm | 4,490 mm |
| Original MSRP | — | $33,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $85,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Evolution IV CN9A brings lighter weight to the table, and the 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR (CT9A) answers with quicker acceleration, higher top speed. 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 1996 and 2003 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 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Evolution IV CN9A producing 280 hp and the 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR (CT9A) 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 MIVEC Turbocharged with 1,997 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR (CT9A) edges ahead at 4.3 seconds versus 4.7 seconds. The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 308 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.