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Used 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Consumer Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
121 reviews

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Modern Muscle!

BigTim, 05/27/2006
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I have owned NUMEROUS cars, a'96 BMW M3, a '94 Mazda RX7, a Mini Cooper S, a Volvo 850R, an Audi S4, all of which were extensively modified... This car is by far the most honed instrument that I have ever owned. The only car which was even close to as fun was the Mini. This car is a beast in every way, I am Currently running over 400 hp, have had numerous encounters with the drag strip, and 35,000 miles on the still strong stock clutch. I have had some auto-X and the brakes are still strong and have lots of life left. I ask a lot from my cars and this has been one of the best, most reliable, and wicked cars I have ever owned. It is not for every one, just a select few who put driving above all else.

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5 out of 5 stars

Twenty years and 203,000 miles later

Jay, 03/24/2019
updated 09/28/2023
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I am the original owner of a 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII. I have taken the car countless times to the drag strip, track day events, and numerous automotive events and it has never failed. It currently has over 400hp at the crank with the original engine, transmission, transfer case, differentials and original turbo. Change engine and drivetrain oil, timing belt and water pump at factory intervals and the Evo will be fine. I check spark plugs frequently for ware however changes should be made between 3000-7000 miles. Interior has held up exceptionally well. I hear reviews of those disappointed with interior materials, however, in the long run the materials have stood the test of time. Recaro front seats are a great balance between track and street. I am 5'7" and my back is supported and I have no aches after long drives. Rear seats are good. There is ample leg room and comfort is good. The only components I have needed to replace are as follows: alternator (at 155,000 miles) compressor fan (broken fan blade from ice at 190,000 miles) starter motor (at 194,000 miles,) and two front axels (at 200,000 miles.) Check the driver side floor fuse box for signs of corrosion or water. There is a rubber plug on the firewall which can come loose allowing water on the fuse box. This is an easy fix. Simply glue the plug shut. This occurred to me 12 years ago and we sealed the pug at the dealer... problem solved. Many Evos unfortunately have been abused and this is where you will hear reliability issues. If you are on the market take care in finding a well maintained model. Best gas mileage I received on the highway was 27mpg on a trip from Atlanta to Philadelphia. The 4G63 engine has a long history stretching back to the Group B Rally Car the Mitsubishi Starion and it's nice to know the engine has constantly been refined over the years. I have driven BMW M3s, Corvettes, 911 Turbos and 911 GT3s, and the Evo is a great value for performance and long term reliability. And after seventeen years and 200,000 miles I will probably hang on to the Evo for an indefinite amount of time.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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1.5 out of 5 stars

Don't BUY!! Get the STi

Cheated!, 06/01/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful

When I purchased my EVO it was a great day! But soon problems followed. I have had it in the shop 6 times and i know of other who have. I got the opportunity to drive the STi.. Much faster, better handling with its adjustable Differentials, BETTER QUALITY! If you don't like replacing head gaskets don't buy EVO!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Best car I have owned

Thoe9999, 10/09/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I'm 21 and this is my first bought car, having no idea what to expect, since I had no test drives. I have made the perfect choice. It is so powerful and so responsive, both steering and throttle, that it listens to every millimeter of movement that I do. This car takes turns at high speeds so easily that it begs you for more. And just if I ever think about getting used to the power, there is a huge potential under the hood that can be tapped for outrageous power gains. I love how the car seats 4 other friends to enjoy the ride with you--of course, I'm not going through a midlife crisis, so I need the practicality it has.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

New EVO VIII

Nathan Loos, 10/05/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Just bought an EVO on 10-04-03. This finally came about after 3 months of looking for some kind of toy. I drove them all. When I finally test drove one all I can say is that you can’t get this kind of automotive fun from any other manufacture especially when you have to pay for it. Not to say that it’s cheep, but bang for buck is so good you wont be disappointed. Ferrari’s are fun so are Lotus paying for then isn’t. They still lack compared to the EVO…

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5 out of 5 stars

the best

Silent_NightR34, 08/26/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

i say this is , not one of , but the best sports sedan i've ever driven. its soooo fast and poweful for a 4 cycle...Iv'e been modding it for a little while now and the perfomance gain are great even with the slightest mods

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Heck of a car

eherby, 08/17/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car is what a car is all about. Speed, handling and comfort in most peoples eyes. It may be a little slower than an STi, but there are mods out there to make this baby compete even though there really isn't much of a difference. It is almost impossible to lose grip on the road, only made it squeek once on a turn in 3200 miles.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Gotta love it

Heggley, 10/25/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The Evo is definately one of those cars that separate the population into 2 groups: those that know what it is, and those that don't. If you're expecting a luxury ride, look elsewhere. If you know the history, the Evo 8 is everything you'd expect; quick, well mannered, very agile, and fun to drive.My Evo is now my daily driver for my 40 mile trek to work every day. The comfort level is above average, considering what the car is. The Evo is a very quick car, and will shock most v8 fans on the road. It puts a smile on my face every minute I'm driving it. The feeling of rounding a '35' mph bend at 70+ is daily justification of why I bought the car.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

You have to drive one

neonhero, 09/14/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Make no mistake, I love this car. However It's not a car for those who have long commutes or who don't like attention. You WILL get alot of people "revving up" on you to see how fast the car is, and yes the car is fast. The seats are comfortable at first, but after 3 hours it gets to be a little sore. Steering is very quick to respond, you sneeze and the car moves. The stiff suspension makes the car very agile.

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5 out of 5 stars

best car iv ever driven

CarrilloX, 11/09/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

its a nascar in an import shell

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4.88 out of 5 stars

the best damn car ever

shenlong, 11/06/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

this car is so damn smooth it just bring tears to my eyes

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Evo VIII

samuelkid, 09/26/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

interior design is quite cheap but if you are looking for a luxury car, this is not the one. If you are looking for a car that is fun and fast, this is the one.

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5 out of 5 stars

qeqwe

ajf hfgdhfbjh, 08/24/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

it is a very nice car that everyone in the world should drive. also it comes with very nice features like the racing seats.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Aawesome car! Words can't tell

happy EVO owner, 01/10/2005
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is quite expensive, the engine is loud, the ride is harsh, and it has no cruise control, but who cares?!?! This car is about SPEED and Performance!!! The sound of the turbo is gonna take your breath away. This is one very fast car. It corners like it's on the rail. This is totally a sports car. If you don't want to sacrifice some comfort and equipment, this is not your car.

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5 out of 5 stars

The evo

dc5itracer, 08/16/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

What can i say to me the evo is the best of all the four door sport sedans.The power is remarkable and the handling is great u just feel comfortable once you get in and start driving its amazing

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5 out of 5 stars

In your face Subaru!!

EVO Freak, 10/10/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Two thumbs up for Mitsubishi. It's about time they took seriously about what the word LANCER really means. So far, no one including the WRX STi can beat this EVO in a rally off-road course.

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5 out of 5 stars

Evolution Specs

Sammie, 08/31/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Awsome car, no doubt about it. My all time favorite.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

GREAT PERFORMANCE FOR THE $$

Boomersan, 10/27/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My previous car was a 1999 BMW M3 which had a balance comfort and performance. The EVO on the other hand is all about performance! If you're seeking for a performance car and is willing to give up some comfort and give up creature comfort amenities the EVO is it! People complain about gas mileage... well, it's right on the window sticker so you know what you're getting into. It's not a Honda Civic economy car, it's a sports car so don't expect great gas mileage! I average about 18MPH combined with my semi-sport driving.

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5 out of 5 stars

Simply awesome

bobspeed, 08/03/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Everything said about this car is true - fun to drive, very fast, incredible handling and braking, sinsister looks, Seems to be built very well, and can carry 4 people comfortably. Great sound system comes stock. I drove both STI and this car, by far this was a better overall car for my needs and likes.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

street legal monster

evilevo, 11/15/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

i am a very satisfied owner of an evo 8. I have personaly ran 13.4 1/4 miles @101.8 with 1.8 60fts with little practice. It is truley the best new bang for your buck buys. The crazy thing is this thing is better in the twisties then anything. I have also driven STI's and it dosent compare

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4.63 out of 5 stars

From the PS2 to your garage!

kiniku, 07/20/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Fast, sleek, unique, fun! This car is thoroughly impressive. It demands respect and firmly reminds all those millions of Mustang GT's out how old and heavy they are today. Better get an SVT Cobra if you want a chance ;) STI is nice but its an upgraded WRX. An EVO, well is an EVO. Its that simple.

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5 out of 5 stars

cool car

justin cooper, 08/03/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

best car i have ever bought im glad i have saved my money

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4.63 out of 5 stars

100% Pure Fun

exobyte, 07/21/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love my Evo. For the performance vs. cost ratio there is no other car like the Evo except the STi, which is a few thousand more. Everything you have read about this car is true. It's true that all of the cost of the vehicle is spent on performance and not luxury, but then ask yourself why you buying a sports car in the first place? Get one and you won't be disappointed.

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5 out of 5 stars

one heck of a car

badbowtie, 08/16/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

this car is amazzing.i just got nos put in it and let me tell i can take it put up beside a nsx and blow its doors off

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4.88 out of 5 stars

The New Pony Car Champ

SpeedRazer, 07/30/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car is the best overall performance car under $50000. Other cars may be able to beat it in a straight line, but throw in some curves and GOODBYE! I considered the Subaru WRX STI due to similiar performance, but the "Corolla with an air scoop" uncool styling turned me away. The Evo is a true production race car. I owned a Mustang GT years ago that was fast in a straight line, but that is all the former pony cars brought to the table. The Evo brings the whole performance driving package (acceleration, braking, cornering, and ALL-WHEEL DRIVE!)

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5 out of 5 stars

Subaru....I mean Sub-a-who!

Favre95, 08/06/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

What more could ask for other than the JDM power levels. A simple reflash will fix that too! The STI is a great car...but!, does not even come close to the toughness of the 4g63 engine. The car handles astoundingly! The STI really does not compare in that department. Who cares about 1/4 mile times...how often do you drag a 1/4 on the street from stop light to stop light.....never! The 0-60 time is where it is at(more of a real world time)and with the evo the time is awesome, 1 shift and you're there. Whereas the sub-a-who needs 2 to get there....what a marketing tactic the 6 speed was. The DCCD is not needed...by any means!

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5 out of 5 stars

The Baddest

bsmith, 09/26/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I do not own an Evo but i sell them, and let me tell you this vehicle will beat any vehicle out now dollar to dollar, and in the fun and excitement dept. For 30K you get 0-60 in 4.8 seconds, .91 G on a 200 foot skid pad, stand alone looks, Brembo brakes, An All-Wheel drive system rivald only by Audis' Quattro. And to top it off exclusivity.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Great car with excellent performance

Infinity, 08/22/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Great car with excellent performance

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5 out of 5 stars

lancer evo best car for street racers

bboy9243, 10/03/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

awesome car very fast 0-60 in less than 5 seconds souped up great sound system not very exspensive

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5 out of 5 stars

awesome

mal, 08/13/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

this is the sweetest car ever. i wish i could get another because i love it.

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5 out of 5 stars

excellent

pickle, 10/05/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

it handled very well speed was excellent it is the most perfect car ive ever owned

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5 out of 5 stars

champ

Pat smith, 08/25/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have a red lancer evolutoin 8 and it is the best car i have ever driven and the funnest. It handles like any other car out there. and the speed it has for a four cylinder is just awesome. I love this car it is great.

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5 out of 5 stars

The Best car I have ever driven!

Insidious Evo, 10/06/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is the best car I have ever driven. It has supurb handeling and engine performance is increddible. The brakes stop the car so fast and controlable it just makes you want to jump on a race track. The car is worth every penny.

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5 out of 5 stars

Awesome

MartinGUSNSEAL, 07/27/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car is Fast!.. I love it.

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5 out of 5 stars

evo

mike hassen, 10/10/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

this is the best car in the world. man when i first got the car my eyes lit up because it was a suprise for me. it has always been my dream car. once you get it you cant stop driving it.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

EVO VII

KrazyKat, 08/28/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

A fun car to have! I use it as a daily car and have no problems with it. No heating problems which you usually get with Turbos specially in summer. You can drive it as a normal car an when you need the power, you just give it a little throttle and just watch the power kick in.

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5 out of 5 stars

the perfect car

SJonesChurch, 10/12/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Select a style 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)is the greatist car that you will ever drive.

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5 out of 5 stars

my evo 8

danielle , 08/16/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

love the car smooth as silk ride

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4.63 out of 5 stars

every 2nr's dream

ex-2nr, 10/26/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The guys at Mitsubishi really did their homework when they re-engineered the Lancer into an Evo. It also doesn’t hurt that they’ve made & raced 7 prior versions of the car before designing the Evo8. Unlike the cars that I used to modify in my street racing years, the Evo8 is well balanced blend of incredible performance and effortless handling. The car’s handling is so quick and responsive, it often feels as though all I need to do is think about making a lane change and the Evo8 does the rest by itself.

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5 out of 5 stars

supra? whats that?

mr-hotstuff, 09/03/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

by far one of the best cars that i have ever driven, and im from san diego where imports are a dime of dozen. it is fast, fun to drive, and has a unique body style that separates it from the rest.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

I love my Evo

kyllei, 11/04/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

It's still too soon to tell but I have every confidence in this car and the dealer.

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5 out of 5 stars

THE BEST!

leigh, 07/16/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

THE BEST CAR EVER!!

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4 out of 5 stars

Evolution, ... say no more

Daily driven Evo, 11/11/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Daily driven, 40+ mins 1 way to work, no comfort qualms, rest of you race feeling haters want waterbed racing seats? Problem: people who shouldnt buy an Evo, buy one and dont understand it, there's no doubt this car is not for everyone. Want fast doesnt mean want race car. Its a race car, no doubts and race bred cars shouldnt hold ur a$$ in plush comfort. Want fast luxury? Supercharge ur moms car (regardless of her age). There is a reason why countless magazines say the Evo out performs m3's, highend mustangs, s4's, etc ... and a reason why forbes and netscape seperately named evo among 1 of 10 best sports cars of ALL TIME.

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5 out of 5 stars

V-8 Wrecher

EvolutinPIMP, 09/13/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

It's Great! I love it! I can beet all the epecive cars in my area.

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5 out of 5 stars

2 fast 2 furious

melissa hoang, 08/20/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

this car is cool.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

best car being made

dylan, 08/11/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

it is the best car on the market right now

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4 out of 5 stars

brutal speed

massad, 09/18/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

this car is fast period. if you like brutaly fast cars this is it. razor sharp handleing, intense power, its adrenaline on 4 wheels.

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5 out of 5 stars

lancer

vanja727, 08/16/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is the best car in the world, it can beat any car!!

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5 out of 5 stars

The Perfect Car

McDaddy, 06/19/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Wonderful all-around car. So fun to drive, you'll find yourself making up excuses just to drive it! Awesome explosive power and design, will make on-viewers head's spin!

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5 out of 5 stars

evo

josephlee72, 07/26/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

comparing with the STI, this car is lack couple of HP. But the mechanics of it turned the whole situation up-side- down.

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