2004 MITSUBISHI LANCER EVOLUTION NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution?
For the 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, a new trim level, the RS, debuts. It’s a stripped-down model with the air conditioning, power windows and locks, rear spoiler and ABS removed. Not only does this decrease weight by 150 pounds, it also deflates the price. Because the Evolution RS isn’t for pretenders, a front helical-type limited slip differential is included and a rear crossbar is added for additional rigidity. Other Lancer Evolutions can be trimmed in leather for the first time, and an upgraded stereo is now available.

Advantages of the 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution:

• Stunning handling
• Exceptional front seat comfort and support
• Standard all-wheel drive
• Adult-sized rear seat
• Simple and attractive control layout and design
• Seven-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty

Objections to the 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution:

• Rough ride for daily commutes
• Tight seats for wider drivers and front passengers
• Noisy cabin

Editor's Advice:
A turbocharged and intercooled inline-four engine that produces 271 horsepower and 273-pound-feet of torque. A full-time all-wheel-drive system. A perfectly tuned suspension. Huge Brembo brakes. Razor-sharp steering. A zero-to-60 mph acceleration time of five seconds. What does all this add up to? One of the most amazing sports cars to hit these shores in quite some time. Add to that a price tag just south of $30,000 and you’ve got a good reason to increase your insurance coverage, because you’re going to be driving hard and fast. No, it’s not the most subtle vehicle, it doesn’t wear a traditional sports car body, and the vast majority of people won’t recognize it, but for those in the know, the 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo is one of the most desirable performance cars on the planet. Drive it back to back with a Subaru WRX STi, the only real competition the Evolution faces, and see if you’d like to be one of 9,500 customers lucky enough to park a 2004 model in the driveway.