The VII retains its rally-proven MacPherson strut suspension layout, but the steering box has been lowered to achieve greater linearity in toe changes and more responsive steering. Massive Brembo brakes bring things to dramatic stop, but are connected to Mitsubishi's Electronic brake force distribution (EBD) system that proportions the braking force between the front and rear wheels for maximum control.
Brooke Burke vs. Evo VII
This amazing Evo VII manages to pack more electronic systems with acronyms under its skin than some classified military planes. Yet for all of its electronic and mechanical wizardry, the Evo's ultimate reward is the unabashed joy it brings to its operator. The problem is that, right now, you stand as good a chance of getting Brooke Burke to jump rope naked as laying your hairy-palmed mitts on one. The version you see on the pages before you would cost around 38K (based on the Japanese exchange rate). Like Brazil's Carnival in Rio and the unedited Benny Hill specials, the Evo VII is one of those forbidden fruits of global automotive culture we can't savor in the U.S...yet. While the VI was a marvelous machine, the Evo VII might just be the best jack-of-all-trades performance car you can't get in the States. Serious consideration is being given to the possibility of the sale of the Evo VII or maybe even a watered down version to compete with the WRX. You might want to pinch yourself because the thought of choosing between two rally-bred super sedans in an American showroom just might give that other twisted fantasy about Ms. Burke and her jumprope a run for their money.
2002 Lancer Evolution VII GS-R
Engine: 1,997cc, DOHC, turbocharged, in-line four-cylinder
Bore x Stroke: 85mm x 88.0mm
Compression Ratio: 8.8:1
Horsepower: 276 hp @ 6,500 rpm
Torque: 283 lb-ft at 3,500 rpm
Engine block: Cast iron
Cylinder head: Aluminum
Turbo: TDO5HR-16C-6-9.8T
Drivetrain: Variable Torque 4WD featuring active center differential
Transmission: Five-speed manual
First: 2.928
Second: 1.950
Third: 1.407
Fourth: 1.031
Fifth: .72
Final Drive: 4.529
Front suspension: Independent MacPherson strut coil spring with 24mm stabilizer bar
Rear suspension: Independent Multi-link with coil spring and 22mm stabilizer bar
Wheelbase: 103.3 inches
Length: 175.4 inches
Width: 69.7 inches
Height: 57.1 inches
Track: 59.6 inches front, 59.6 inches rear
Curb weight: 3086.5 pounds
Steering: Power-assisted rack and pinion
Front Brakes: ventilated disc with 4 piston Brembo caliper
Rear Brakes: ventilated disc with Brembo two piston caliper
Wheels: 17x8 OZ aluminum
Tires: 235/45ZR17 Yokohama Advan