Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

vs

Mitsubishi i-MiEV

Japan vs Japan — 1996 vs 2009

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (1996)
Mitsubishi i-MiEV (2009)
Specifications
Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Editioni-MiEV Standard
Horsepower280 hp66 hp
Torque275 lb-ft133 lb-ft
Engine Size1,997 cc
0-60 mph4.4 sec13.0 sec
Top Speed155 mph81 mph
¼ Mile12.8 sec19.5 sec
Weight2,447 lbs
Wheelbase2,510 mm2,550 mm
Length4,350 mm3,475 mm
Units Produced2,50032,000
Original MSRP$29,125
Value (Excellent)$90,000$15,000
Collectibility5/104/10
Rarity7/106/10
The Verdict

On balance, the 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 2009 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Standard counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition for outright capability, or the 2009 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Standard for a more distinctive ownership experience.

Overview

Mitsubishi has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition with the 2009 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Standard highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition holds a clear advantage in raw power with 280 hp compared to 66 hp, a 214-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. The engine configurations differ significantly — a Inline-4 Turbo DOHC 16V in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution versus a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Electric Motor in the Mitsubishi i-MiEV. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition edges ahead at 4.4 seconds versus 13.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,500 units built, the 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition is considerably scarcer than the Mitsubishi i-MiEV's 32,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition commands a significant premium over the 2009 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Standard, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.