Tuning a 2000 Lancer Evolution: Unleashing Its Full Potential

The sound of revving engines fills the cabin as Dennis and Riccardo converse, their voices barely audible above the din. This highly modified JDM classic Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is built for speed, with BC coil-overs, upgraded brakes, and poly bushes giving it the agility and control needed to tackle the track.

Behind the wheel, the Evo comes alive, biting the asphalt with an eagerness that's hard to resist. According to Dennis, this high-powered beast is designed specifically for track days and Nürburgring trips, with four bars of intake pressure currently running through its system.

The engine is a marvel of engineering, featuring a custom Cybex ECU and onboard boost control unit to limit the amount of boost it produces. Despite being torque-limited to protect the transmission, this Lancer Evolution has been dyno-ed at 650 HP by Torque Development International – and could potentially produce up to 770 HP if it weren't for the stock transmission.

For maximum performance, the team installed a Garret G770 turbocharger and modified the engine's ports, port angles, and valve angles to create a flowing head. The solid buckets over the valves add an extra layer of sophistication, while the SME recast cylinder head gives this 2.0-liter engine a new lease on life.

Despite its impressive power output, the team has put a lot of effort into making sure the powertrain is reliable and efficient. In select markets, they paired the engine with an automatic CVT transmission and all-wheel-drive system for maximum traction.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 8 MR320 has a rich history, with only two engine options available – ranging from 90 to 130 HP. Depending on the trim level and market, the car came equipped with features like power windows and locks, air-conditioning, and ABS brakes. The interior offered decent space for three adults in the back seat, but was let down by poor-quality plastics and a lack of attention to detail.

On the outside, the Lancer Evolution's design is somewhat lacking, with small taillights that look out of proportion to the car's size. However, the big, squared headlights are an improvement over previous generations, offering more light and a more modern appearance.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution may not have been the company's strongest effort in terms of exterior design, but it has a certain charm that sets it apart from other sedans. As the last generation to be based on the same platform as the Mirage, this 2000 model year marks an important milestone in the evolution of the Lancer line.

With its impressive power output and handling capabilities, this highly modified Lancer Evolution is a force to be reckoned with on the track – and a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Dennis and his team.

Tuning 2000 lancer evom