Mitsubishi Evo

One of the more popular cars of this ilk is the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution.

he Evolution (or "Evo") is based on the Lancer compact sedan. Packing a powerful turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, the Lancer Evolution quickly became a successful rally car.

Current Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
Today's Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, technically known as the Lancer Evolution X, offers a level of performance typically found in European sports cars and sport sedans that cost considerably more. As a bonus, the Evo looks the part of a legitimate high-performance car as well.
Acceleration, too, is top-notch, as the Evo can give far more expensive cars a run for their money.

Used Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Models
The second-generation Lancer Evolution, the Evo X, debuted for the 2008 model year. The first-generation U.S.-market Evo, sold from 2003-'06, was actually the eighth generation overall by Mitsubishi's count. Arriving on our shores in 2003, the Evo VIII was an extreme car with extreme ride characteristics.

The Evo VIII also had a decidedly sparse interior that betrayed its econocar roots. The Evo VIII, rechristened "Evo IX" for 2006 based on a handful of revisions, was initially powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 271 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. The Evo VIII/IX still stands as one of the all-time great driver's cars.

A number of running changes were made to this Evo generation. The MR model debuted for 2005, featuring a six-speed manual transmission and other performance upgrades; the all-wheel-drive system was also improved for all models. If you insist on buying a well-maintained Mitsubishi Evo with extensive records, you'll likely be rewarded with endless fun from the car's proven powertrain.