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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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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

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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