Chassis Code Explained
| Segment | Meaning | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| C | Body platform | C-segment compact (Lancer) |
| P | AWD code | Permanent 4WD (AWC system) |
| 9 | Body generation | 9th-generation Lancer body (CD platform) |
| A | Variant | High-performance homologation spec |
Evo VII onward uses CT9A (T = turbocharged). CP9A is specific to Evo VI (1999–2001).
Key Takeaways
- Two cars share this chassis code: the Evolution V of January 1998 and the Evolution VI of January 1999
- The 1998 car widened the track, fitted "225/45ZR17 tires" and "Brembo calipers", and added "a front helical LSD" to the AYC
- The 1999 car's changes were driven by "the 1999 changes in WRC regulations governing the size of aero parts" and by engine cooling
- Its RS ran "a turbocharger with a titanium alloy turbine, a world first"
- The Tommi Mäkinen Edition arrived January 2000, lowered 10 mm with a front strut brace and quicker steering
- Recurring faults: "rusty chassis legs and wheel arches", "a rusty wastegate that causes a drop in boost pressure", tired suspension, tappet noise and AYC squawk
Technical Specifications
Engine Options
| Chassis | Engine | Displacement | Power — JDM | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CP9A (Evo V) | 4G63T | 2.0L | 280 PS @ 6500rpm (estimated) | 280PS nominal; Brembo-era hardware |
| CP9A (Evo VI) | 4G63T | 2.0L | 280 PS @ 6500rpm (estimated) | 280PS nominal; TME had unique tuning |
Transmission Options
| Type | Ratios | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-speed Manual | N/A (varies by gen/market) | Evo I-X (most trims) | Multiple gearsets across generations |
| 6-speed Manual | N/A (varies by gen/market) | Evo VIII/IX MR, some UK | MR-focused close ratio sets |
| INVECS-II 5-speed Automatic | N/A | Evo VII GT-A | Torque-converter automatic |
| TC-SST 6-speed Dual-clutch | N/A (varies by year) | Evo X MR (and some markets) | Twin-clutch with S-Sport modes |
Early builds of this chassis became eligible for US import under the 25-year rule in 2024; later production years become eligible through 2026. Calculate import costs →
Variants & Trims
| Generation | Trim | Engine | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lancer Evolution V (CP9A, 1998-1999) | GSR | 4G63T 2.0L I4 Turbo | AWD, AYC, Brembo, wider track, Recaro, Momo |
| Lancer Evolution V (CP9A, 1998-1999) | RS | 4G63T 2.0L I4 Turbo | AWD, AYC (opt/market), Brembo, lighter spec, steel wheels |
| Lancer Evolution VI (CP9A, 1999-2001) | GSR | 4G63T 2.0L I4 Turbo | AWD, AYC, Brembo, Recaro, Momo, revised aero |
| Lancer Evolution VI (CP9A, 1999-2001) | RS | 4G63T 2.0L I4 Turbo | AWD, AYC (opt/market), Brembo, lighter spec, steel wheels |
| Lancer Evolution VI (CP9A, 1999-2001) | RS2 | 4G63T 2.0L I4 Turbo | RS base with some comfort, AWD, 5MT, Brembo |
| Lancer Evolution VI (CP9A, 1999-2001) | Tommi Mäkinen Edition (GSR) | 4G63T 2.0L I4 Turbo | AWD, quicker steering, unique turbo/tune, special aero |
Should You Buy a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution CP9A?
Why You'll Love It
- The chassis step that made it a 17-inch car "Track was widened significantly front and rear, inverted strut suspension adopted at the front, and larger 225/45ZR17 tires fitted. A front helical LSD was added to the AYC to promote optimum torque distribution."
- Brakes matched to the engine "The higher engine power output was complemented with Brembo calipers, giving much improved braking."
- A stiffer, better-located body Autocar's buying guide records that "its body was stiffened with 130 additional spot welds and thicker gauge steel. The front suspension was improved with stronger, forged front knuckles; the rear with forged aluminium to reduce unsprung weight."
- A titanium-turbine RS "The RS competition model sported a turbocharger with a titanium alloy turbine, a world first, giving improved response and high-end power output."
- The Mäkinen Edition is a real car, not a sticker pack Mitsubishi lowered it 10 mm and added "a front strut brace and use of quicker steering"; Autocar lists "a more responsive turbo, uprated and lowered suspension, quicker steering, a redesigned front bumper for even better cooling, authentic WRC alloy wheels and an optional colour pack".
Why You Might Not
- Rust is the recurring fault "Common problems across all types are rusty chassis legs and wheel arches", and specialists avoid "sourcing Evo VIs from the north of Japan, where they use road salt".
- A rusty wastegate quietly costs you boost "A rusty wastegate that causes a drop in boost pressure" is listed alongside rust as a common fault.
- Expensive noises "If the tappets continue to make a ticking noise after the engine has warmed up, the gearbox whines and the AYC squawks in corners, call your bank manager."
- Short service intervals "It needs servicing every 4500 miles, using fully synthetic oil, and a cambelt every 40,000. It prefers a diet of super-unleaded."
- Stripped specials give up the systems The RS and RSX "ditched the GSR's creature comforts as well as the anti-lock brakes and the AYC".
Who Should NOT Buy This
- Buyers who cannot service at "every 4500 miles, using fully synthetic oil, and a cambelt every 40,000"
- Buyers who would skip the underbody inspection — check "for corrosion on the rear chassis legs, around the petrol filler area and the wheel arches"
- Buyers who would ignore a whining gearbox or a squawking AYC, both of which point at expensive work
- Buyers who want the rarity of an RS or RSX but expect ABS and AYC — those cars "ditched the GSR's creature comforts as well as the anti-lock brakes and the AYC"
- Buyers who assume a low-mileage Japanese import is a safe one: "so many of the JDM imports have completely rotted fuel systems"
Common Issues & Solutions
| Issue | Cause | Solution | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corroded chassis legs and wheel arches | "Common problems across all types are rusty chassis legs and wheel arches" — cars from salted regions are worst. | Check "for corrosion on the rear chassis legs, around the petrol filler area and the wheel arches" on a lift before buying. | Get a written estimate for structural corrosion repair before committing. |
| Rusty turbo wastegate | "A rusty wastegate that causes a drop in boost pressure." | "Inspect the turbo wastegate for rust and the coolant reservoir for leaks." | Get a written estimate for wastegate repair or replacement. |
| Tappet ticking that does not clear | Tappet noise that persists after warm-up is a flag: "if the tappets continue to make a ticking noise after the engine has warmed up... call your bank manager". | "Check any tappet noise clears as the engine temperature rises. New lash adjusters may fix it (they are not expensive)." | Lash adjusters are cheap; persistent noise after warm-up is not. |
| Gearbox whine and worn synchros | "Listen for gearbox whine, indicating worn input shaft bearings or a worn transfer 'box. Notchy gearchanges could be worn synchros." | Drive through every gear from cold and listen, rather than relying on a short warm test drive. | Get a written estimate for gearbox or transfer-case work. |
| AYC neglect | "Listen for the AYC squawking in corners." The system also needs its own fluid service. | "Ensure the AYC light illuminates briefly on start-up. Check for evidence of fresh oil every 25,000 miles or so." | Ask for AYC service records in writing. |
| Tired suspension | "Suspension parts will be tired now so expect to replace drop-links and springs." | Price a suspension refresh into the purchase rather than treating it as a surprise. | Budget drop-links and springs as a near-certain job. |
| Clutch worn by hard use | "Around 40,000 miles with careful driving is a typical lifespan." | "Check the clutch works" on the test drive and match the car's mileage against its history. | Get a written estimate for clutch replacement. |
Differences between JDM & USDM
CP9A is a Japanese-market chassis — Mitsubishi "only federalized the later Evo VIII for North America" — although Britain did get official cars late in the run: Hagerty records that "Mitsubishi U.K. began officially importing the TME in GSR spec to Britain, with a price of £32,995", a year after it "went on sale in Japan". The Japanese Evolution V of January 1998 brought a significantly wider track, "inverted strut suspension" at the front, "225/45ZR17 tires", "Brembo calipers" and "a front helical LSD" added to the AYC. The Evolution VI of January 1999 answered "the 1999 changes in WRC regulations governing the size of aero parts" with reworked cooling and a twin-wing spoiler, and its RS carried "a turbocharger with a titanium alloy turbine, a world first". For a US buyer importing one, the faults are well documented: "rusty chassis legs and wheel arches", "a rusty wastegate that causes a drop in boost pressure", and on low-mileage cars that have sat, "so many of the JDM imports have completely rotted fuel systems". Eligibility runs on 49 CFR 591.5's condition that "the vehicle is 25 or more years old".
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
Critical Priority
High Priority
Generation History
Evo V (CP9A) (1998-1999)
- Wider body; Brembos on many trims
- Stronger drivetrain; better stability
- Popular for stance and presence
Evo VI (CP9A) (1999-2001)
- Peak 'classic' feel; sharp response
- Tommi Mäkinen Edition halo model
- Strongest collector demand pre-USDM
Market Data
Production Numbers & Rarity
| Generation | Years | Total Built | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lancer Evolution V (CP9A) | 1998-1999 | ~10,000 (estimated) | Estimated; includes RS/GSR split |
| Lancer Evolution VI (CP9A) | 1999-2001 | ~17,000 (estimated) | Estimated; includes TME subset |
Motorsport Heritage
| Series | Years | Result | Car | Driver |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| World Rally Championship (WRC) | 1996–2005 | 3× Manufacturers' Championship; Tommi Mäkinen 4× Drivers' Champion | Lancer Evolution IV–VIII WRC | Tommi Mäkinen / Richard Burns / Markko Märtin |
| Asia Pacific Rally Championship | 1996–2002 | Multiple class and overall wins | Lancer Evolution WRC | — |
Sources: FIA WRC official records, APRC records
How It Compares
| Feature | CP9A | Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 | Mazda RX-7 FD3S |
|---|---|---|---|
| Layout/traction | AWD, active diffs (many) | RWD, LSD | RWD, LSD |
| Engine family | 4G63T (I-IX) / 4B11T (X) | RB26DETT 2.6 I6TT | 13B-REW 1.3 RTT |
| Stock power (JDM) | 276 hp (gentlemen's agr.) | 276 hp (rated) | 255-280 hp (market) |
| Tuning headroom | High; 350-450whp common | High; costly but strong | High; heat/rotary limits |
| Handling character | Pointy, adjustable, AWD rotate | Stable, heavy, high grip | Light, oversteer-prone |
| Reliability baseline | Good if stock & maintained | Good but parts pricey | Sensitive; vacuum/heat issues |
| Maintenance pain points | AYC/ACD, belts, boost leaks | ATTESA, turbos, rust | Cooling, apex seals, twins |
| Practicality | 4-door sedan; usable rear seat | 2-door; small rear seat | 2-seat/2+2 tight; low cargo |
| Collector premium drivers | Evo VI TME, IX MR, X FE | V-Spec II Nür, M-Spec Nür | Spirit R, Type RZ |
| US availability | USDM VIII/IX/X; earlier import | R34 legal by year; costly | USDM available 1993-1995 |
| Direct USDM rival | Evo VIII/IX/X | AWD turbo; 2.5 EJ | AWD turbo; 2.5 EJ |
| Steering feel | Sharper, more immediate | Good but less razor-edged | Heavier; more insulated |
| Drivetrain tech | AYC/ACD; SST on X | DCCD center diff | DCCD; SI-Drive |
Comparable Alternatives
Subaru WRX STI GR/GV
Roomier hatch/sedan; DCCD; daily-friendly
Nissan 370Z
Modern RWD performance; simpler ownership; cheaper
The Buyer's Read
CP9A is two cars and one halo model. The Evolution V of January 1998 is the chassis step: "track was widened significantly front and rear, inverted strut suspension adopted at the front, and larger 225/45ZR17 tires fitted", with "a front helical LSD" added to the AYC and "Brembo calipers" behind the new wheels. Torque went to "38.0 kg-m" on "lighter pistons, a larger turbocharger nozzle and other changes". The Evolution VI of January 1999 is the cooling and aero answer to "the 1999 changes in WRC regulations governing the size of aero parts", and its RS ran "a turbocharger with a titanium alloy turbine, a world first". In January 2000 came the Tommi Mäkinen Edition, "lowered by 10 mm" with "a front strut brace and use of quicker steering".
Buy on condition, not on badge. Autocar's buying guide is direct about what goes wrong: "common problems across all types are rusty chassis legs and wheel arches (it's why we avoid sourcing Evo VIs from the north of Japan, where they use road salt), and a rusty wastegate that causes a drop in boost pressure. Suspension parts will be tired now so expect to replace drop-links and springs."
Drive it properly before you decide. "Test it from cold." "Look for exhaust smoke: grey or blue is not good, white on start-up is okay." "Check any tappet noise clears as the engine temperature rises" — "new lash adjusters may fix it (they are not expensive)", but noise that persists is the expensive kind. "Listen for gearbox whine, indicating worn input shaft bearings or a worn transfer 'box. Notchy gearchanges could be worn synchros. Listen for the AYC squawking in corners. Ensure the AYC light illuminates briefly on start-up." Clutches last "around 40,000 miles with careful driving".
Then look at the paperwork. Servicing is "every 4500 miles, using fully synthetic oil, and a cambelt every 40,000", the AYC wants "evidence of fresh oil every 25,000 miles or so", and you should "ensure any mods have supporting paperwork". If you are importing rather than buying locally, add the fuel system to the list: "so many of the JDM imports have completely rotted fuel systems", and "anyone that buys one should plan on installing a fresh fuel pump and filter". Eligibility itself only asks, under 49 CFR 591.5, that "the vehicle is 25 or more years old".
Frequently Asked Questions
- What changed for the 1998 car?
- "Track was widened significantly front and rear, inverted strut suspension adopted at the front, and larger 225/45ZR17 tires fitted. A front helical LSD was added to the AYC to promote optimum torque distribution." Braking moved to "Brembo calipers", and torque rose to "38.0 kg-m".
- Why does the 1999 car look different?
- It "was developed to reflect the 1999 changes in WRC regulations governing the size of aero parts and also to realize major improvements in engine cooling" — hence "the license plate being offset from the center of the grille, the addition of an oil cooler ventilator and of air blow ducting, a downsizing and repositioning of the fog lamps and the use of a twin wing rear spoiler with a variable angle wicker bill".
- What is the Tommi Mäkinen Edition?
- Mitsubishi launched it in January 2000 to mark "Tommi Mäkinen's incredible fourth driver's championship in a row". "Vehicle height was lowered by 10 mm and the addition of a front strut brace and use of quicker steering improved handling response."
- What should I check first on a used car?
- Rust and boost. "Common problems across all types are rusty chassis legs and wheel arches", plus "a rusty wastegate that causes a drop in boost pressure". Then drive it: "listen for gearbox whine" and "listen for the AYC squawking in corners".
- How often does it need servicing?
- "It needs servicing every 4500 miles, using fully synthetic oil, and a cambelt every 40,000. It prefers a diet of super-unleaded."
- Can I import one into the US?
- Under 49 CFR 591.5 the FMVSS exemption condition is that "the vehicle is 25 or more years old" — confirm the specific car's manufacture date and current import, EPA and state requirements.
Sources & References
Sources (14)
- Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution — encyclopedic overview — Wikipedia Verified
- Mitsubishi Sirius / 4G6 engine family reference — Wikipedia Verified
- World Rally Championship — historical record — Wikipedia Verified
- Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VI used car buying guide — Autocar Verified
- Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X owner reviews and common problems — Carbuyer Verified
- Lancer Evolution — dream-car ownership perspective — CarThrottle Verified
- Left-hand-drive Evo discussion thread — EvolutionM forum Verified
- Pros and cons of Evo ownership — community thread — EvoX Forums Moved View archived ↗
- Lancer Evolution common problems reference — Breakeryard Access blocked
- Evo X reliability discussion — r/mitsubishi subreddit Access blocked
- Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution — Hagerty valuation tool — Hagerty Access blocked
- Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution — auction results archive — Bring a Trailer Access blocked
- Mitsubishi Lancer Evo — model history and road tests — Evo Magazine Access blocked
- WRC — championship history and Mitsubishi Ralliart record — FIA World Rally Championship Access blocked
Sources last verified: