2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Review
Price Estimate: $1,636 - $2,558





+15
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Tons of power, tight handling, excellent feedback during spirited driving.
Cons
- Inexperienced drivers can get into trouble quickly, unforgiving highway ride.
What’s new
The Lancer Evolution is not necessarily a new car; it's been around in Japan and Europe since 1989. However, this year marks the first time Mitsubishi is offering the Evo to American customers.
Edmunds says
A fully equipped racecar for under $30,000. If driving means more to you than anything else in the world, you'd be crazy not to consider the Evo.
For sale nearby
4 listings
- 144,772 miles
- 1 accident, 12 owners, personal use only
- 16 City / 23 Hwy MPG, Manual
- SpeedGod Motorsports (671 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Rear Bench Seats
- Electronic Folding M...
Close
Located in Englewood, CO
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
19 Combined MPG (16 City/23 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JA3AH86F93U098223
Stock: 1837
Certified Pre-Owned: No- 158,874 miles
- No accidents, 3 owners, personal use only
- 16 City / 23 Hwy MPG, Manual
- RC Hill Mitsubishi - Ocala (826 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Rear Bench Seats
- Electronic Folding M...
Close
Located in Ocala, FL
** LOCAL TRADE IN!. White 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII AWD 5-Speed Manual with Overdrive 2.0L I4 DOHC Intercooled Turbocharged NO PHOTO-BOOTH...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
19 Combined MPG (16 City/23 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JA3AH86F83U094454
Stock: 3U094454
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 04-11-2025
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.52 per gallon for premium unleaded in Missouri.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Missouri
$230/mo for Lancer Evolution Base
Lancer Evolution Base
vs
$145/mo
Avg. Compact Car
See Edmunds pricing data
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Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(85%)
4(12%)
3(2%)
2(1%)
1(0%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Modern Muscle!
4.5 out of 5 starsBigTim, 05/27/2006
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
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.
Twenty years and 203,000 miles later
5 out of 5 starsJay, 03/24/2019
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
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.
Don't BUY!! Get the STi
1.5 out of 5 starsCheated!, 06/01/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
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!
Awesome
5 out of 5 starsMartinGUSNSEAL, 07/27/2003
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 4dr Sport Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
This car is Fast!.. I love it.
2003 Lancer Evolution Highlights
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $28,987 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 19 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $230/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 10.2 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | all wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
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