MITSUBISHI Lancer Evolution V 1998-1999 Photos, engines & full specs

The fifth sequel of the Lancer Evolution happened in 1998 when the Japanese carmaker made a crucial upgrade for this rally-ready road car.

In the late 90s, Mitsubishi had to adapt to new FIA regulations regarding rally cars. But the automaker had already prepared a successor for the Lancer, so the Evo V came not only with some engineering upgrades but with a different, wilder look. Moreover, since the Evo V was a serial production model, built on assembly lines, and shared many parts with the regular Lancer, Mitsubishi could sell it for less than other supercars of that era.

The redesigned Lancer Evo V featured larger headlights than its predecessor. Moreover, the carmaker penned the car with rally specs in mind. Thus, the front bumper received bigger than usual fog lamps. They flanked the broad lower grille that adorned the apron and let bystanders see the big radiators behind it. To further emphasize the car's rally origins, the hood sported two vents that helped cool the engine bay. From its sides, the wedged-shaped car sported flared wheel arches, aerodynamic side sills, and a big wing on the trunk. That was not for decoration, but it actually pushed the back of the car harder onto the road.

Inside, it was a civilized vehicle with an AC, a sound system, and an instrument cluster that showed more than 150 mph on the clock. That and the sports seats were other clues regarding the car's performance. But it could still be used as a daily driver, as long as the driver didn't complain about the manual-gearbox-only option and the neck-hurting accelerations. Moreover, the rear passengers seated on the bench had to hold tight to stay in place during high-speed cornering.

Under the hood, Mitsubishi still used the 4G63 powerplant, albeit it produced 276 HP (280 PS). Power went in all corners via an innovative all-wheel drive system created by Mitsubishi for this vehicle.