REDLINE ALLEYMitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV to VI buying guide
1996 to 2001. An Evo IV to VI suits a keen driver who wants the classic rally era Evo and will budget for drivetrain servicing.
Big jobs
- AYC rear diff and pump. The Active Yaw Control rear diff groans when worn, and a new AYC pump can cost thousands.
- Front helical LSD case bolts. Front helical LSD case bolt failure is reported on earlier Evos and is expensive to fix.
- Clutch wear and gearbox bearings. Standard clutches wear quickly, and worn gearbox output shaft bearings are a known check.
- Rust in boot lid, sills and chassis legs. Rust is reported in the boot lid, sills, suspension mounts, inner wings, chassis legs and round the fuel tank. Japanese imports may not have been undersealed.
Workshop jobs
- Evo V dressed as a VI. A bumper and spoiler swap can make an Evo V look like a VI.
Small jobs
- Strut tops, anti roll bar bushes and drop links. Worn strut top mount bushes, anti roll bar bushes and drop links cause knocking on turning.
Questions for the seller
- When were the cambelt and balance shaft belt last done?
- Has the AYC pump or rear diff been rebuilt?
- Is it a GSR or RS, and is it a genuine Makinen if claimed?
- Was it undersealed after import?
- What modifications and boost does it run?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-01. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.