Mitsubishi Lancer Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Mitsubishi Lancer

The Mitsubishi Lancer was first introduced in 1973 as a compact, reliable car targeted at a broad market. Early generations offered sedan, estate, coupe, and even convertible formats, with petrol or diesel engines from 1.2 to 1.8 litres. In Europe, the Lancer truly established its presence from 1977. A defining shift came in the 1990s with the introduction of high-performance Evolution models, developed as homologation specials for international rally competitions, notably the World Rally Championship. Over eight generations, the Lancer consistently innovated with technical updates, body styles, and trim levels, while retaining a focus on practical motoring and accessible performance.

Model History

The Lancer’s lineage begins in the early 1970s, featuring simple engineering and robust design. Successive generations brought technological upward steps: the third generation introduced estate models and diesel engines; the fourth bore strong visual ties with the Colt. By the 1990s, multiple body types and a multitude of petrol and diesel engines characterised the Lancer range. The sporty GTi-16V variant and, particularly, the turbo 2.0-litre Evolution models from Evo I to Evo X elevated the model’s status. Each Evolution generation introduced engineering enhancements directly influenced by Mitsubishi’s motorsport efforts. The model’s production continued through to 2024, adapting to new regulations and customer expectations.

Highlights and Unique Features

Lancer models cover a broad spectrum: from practical family transporters to track-focused rally homologation vehicles. The Evolution range (notably Evo VI, V, IX, X) is most recognised for its motorsport pedigree, all-wheel drive, turbocharged engines, Brembo brakes, Recaro seats⁠—and, in special editions, unique body colours, insignia, or even autographs from rally drivers. Special interior trims, limited alloy wheel designs (e.g., O.Z. Racing, BBS), and rare options such as original red paint (code 071, Tommi Mäkinen Edition) distinguish collectible variants.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Among Lancer special editions, the Evolution line dominates. Notable are the Tommi Mäkinen Edition (TME) of the Evo VI, featuring unique exterior colours (notably red), driver signatures, rally-inspired seats, and limited production run. Models such as the FQ400 in the UK delivered 400bhp with extensive engine and chassis modifications. The RS was stripped for motorsport use, lacking sound deadening, electrics, or even power windows, maximising readiness for rally conversion. Limited batches and distinctive features render these vehicles highly regarded, especially when original and unmodified.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Lancer Evolutions are renowned for their turbocharged 2.0-litre engines and advanced 4WD systems. Most offer quick steering, short-throw gearboxes, and precise handling, honed for tarmac and gravel stages in rally competition. Suspension and brake upgrades are common amongst sporty versions, with factory Brembo brake systems. The ‘RS’ models feature stiffer, lighter components, and lack comfort equipment in favour of pure performance. Even standard Lancers offer multi-link rear suspension and solid safety features for the era. Later Evolutions pushed boundaries with AYC (Active Yaw Control) and ACD (Active Centre Differential), contributing to their rally success. - Evo VI: 2.0L turbocharged, ~280bhp, rally heritage, Recaro seats, Brembo brakes.

• Evo IX: Improved turbo and chassis tech, revered for handling finesse.
• GTi-16V: 1.8L, 140bhp, non-turbo, offers a balance of sport and everyday use.
• Tommi Mäkinen Edition (Evo VI): Unique paint, iconic trim, limited production.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Lancer interiors range from basic to impressively outfitted, depending on trim and year. Notable features in Evo models: Recaro sports seats, O.Z. Racing alloys, unique ‘TME’ insignia, rally-themed details, and high-grade cloth or Alcantara upholstery. Civilian models (e.g., GLXi, GSR) come with options such as power steering, central locking, electric windows, and air conditioning. Exterior styles evolved from boxy sedans and estates to aerodynamically enhanced Evolution versions with pronounced spoilers, aggressive bumpers, and bonnet vents. Many special editions include badge engineering, rare body colours, or unique trim packages. Optional accessories often covered wheel options, sunblinds, anti-theft alarms, or roof rails for estates.

Other Relevant Features

Lancer classic models, especially Evolutions, are prized when original and unmodified, with service books, toolkits, and authentic documentation. Both right- and left-hand-drive cars were built and are in circulation, and import models from Japan or the UK are frequent in Europe. Some of the original, unassuming family Lancers now attract attention as under-the-radar collector curiosities, furthered by the ‘Festival of the Unexceptional’ movement.

Summary

The Mitsubishi Lancer, with its wide model diversity—from dependable saloons and estates to the ferocious rally-inspired Evolution line—offers a comprehensive snapshot of Japanese compact car engineering. Its success stems from motorsport achievements, technical innovation, and versatility, with certain special and limited editions now highly regarded by enthusiasts. As interest increasingly centres on unmodified, original vehicles, the Lancer’s heritage as both practical transport and thrilling driver’s car becomes ever more prominent in the classic car community.