1998 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo V GSR

Mitsubishi had enjoyed much success in rallying all around the world since 1973 with their Gallant, Lancer and Starion, however in 1992, the decision was made to fully commit to winning the World Rally Championship (WRC). Utilising the best of the technologies established through previous years, including their much refined four-wheel drive S-AWC system (Super-All Wheel Control), the Lancer GSR Evolution model series was launched. True to its name, the series has undergone an ongoing evolution process ever since its introduction, with improvements in engine performance and handling leading to the Evolution II in 1993 and the Evolution III in 1995.

Following the introduction of the new Lancer road car model which debuted major improvements in styling and performance, the Lancer GSR Evolution IV was launched in 1996, boasting more power and ever more innovative technology including their new AYC (Active Yaw Control) adaptive handling enhancement system.

The Evolution V continued the process with a further increase in engine torque and substantially improved handling thanks to a wider track and upgraded Brembo braking. Its 2-litre, DOHC, intercooler-turbocharged, four-cylinder engine now used an upgraded intercooler, enlarged nozzle area in the twin-scroll turbocharger, lighter pistons, an upgraded radiator and oil-cooler to produce 280bhp. Launched in January 1998 and produced for only a year, the Lancer Evolution V took up the motorsport mantle, at least in terms of the WRC. A new ruling allowing a bigger body gave Mitsubishi the opportunity to extend the previous models platform, increasing brake and wheel size, adding 10mm to its track and displaying, for the first time, flared arches and much more aggressive styling.

Its now widely accepted that finding credible examples of the Evolution V is becoming increasingly hard. In Japan, Evos were only produced by the Mitsubishi factory in five basic trims, RS, RS2, GT, GT-A or GSR. This is an exceptionally rare GSR variant, the road-going version of the out and out stripped RS competition edition. Featuring climate-control, electric windows and mirrors, sports seats and alloy wheels, this Scotia White GSR sports the correct Recaro Sports seats and is believed to be one of under 100 produced, making it an exceptionally rare car.

Imported from Japan as a Grade 4 car with an impeccable history in 2017, when we understand that that the odometer was converted to miles with certification. It has been within our own vendor's private Collection for the last couple of years. This desirable Evo V comes to sale in superb condition and with such an attractive guide it should readily create a stir amongst JDM collectors.