This 650 WHP Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII Is as Bonkers as it Sounds
How does a Mitsu crank out more than twice its stock power, and then some?
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is a legend. Introduced stateside in 2003, the LanEvo set the stage for what was to become a decade-long rivalry with Subaru and its WRX STI. With several World Rally Championship wins, the Lancer Evolution proved a proper rally pedigree; it was a rally car transformed for the road.
This particular Evo VIII belongs to the first generation of Evos brought to the states. Off the assembly line, this car was good for 276 hp—about the same as a modern-day Subaru WRX. The car's owner, however, has kicked the motor's output all the way up to 650 hp ... at the wheels. To put that in perspective, that's more power than the 2017 Nissan GT-R NISMO which produces a mere 600 hp. It's worth noting the Evo VIII also weighs about 700 pounds less than the GT-R.
Matt Farah recently had a go in this car, and it had him giggling like a little school girl:
So, how is a 13-year-old car able to reach such a high power band? It's all thanks to a careful selection of modifications which include a Garrett GT35R turbocharger, Curt Brown race head, and Shepherd drivetrain. Combine that with a clean, stock look and you've got yourself a proper sleeper sedan. Although some might argue that this car has gone too far over the edge, it is undoubtedly keeping the Lancer Evolution name alive and well.
