Mitsubishi has a rich and distinguished history in motorsport, known for its high-performance vehicles and notable achievements in rallying and endurance racing. The brand’s commitment to innovation and performance has earned it a dedicated following among racing enthusiasts. One of the most iconic models in Mitsubishi’s racing legacy is the Lancer Evolution (Evo).
Mitsubishi's motorsport journey began in the 1960s with its participation in endurance events and rallying. Early successes came with models like the Mitsubishi Colt 1000F, which competed in the Southern Cross Rally in Australia. However, it was in the 1970s that Mitsubishi began to make a significant mark in the racing world, particularly in rallying.
In 1973, Mitsubishi entered the Safari Rally with the Lancer 1600 GSR, securing an impressive victory. This win was a pivotal moment for the brand, showcasing the Lancer’s durability and performance in one of the world’s most gruelling rally events. The success of the Lancer 1600 GSR laid the foundation for Mitsubishi’s future rally endeavours.
The introduction of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution in 1992 marked a significant milestone in the brand’s motorsport history. The Lancer Evo was developed as a high-performance rally car, featuring advanced technologies and engineering designed to excel in the World Rally Championship (WRC). The first-generation Lancer Evo, known as the Evo I, was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine and an advanced all-wheel-drive system, making it a formidable competitor on various rally stages.
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Mitsubishi continued to develop and refine the Lancer Evolution, producing ten generations of the model, each with significant advancements in performance, handling, and technology. The Lancer Evo’s success in the WRC was highlighted by multiple victories and championship titles. One of the most notable achievements came with driver Tommi Mäkinen, who won four consecutive WRC drivers’ titles from 1996 to 1999, driving the Lancer Evo III, IV, V, and VI. These victories solidified Mitsubishi’s reputation as a powerhouse in rallying.
The Lancer Evolution’s performance was not limited to professional rallying. The model also became a favorite among amateur racers and enthusiasts, known for its excellent handling, powerful turbocharged engines, and tunability. The Evo’s presence in grassroots motorsport and its success in various racing disciplines contributed to its legendary status.
In addition to rallying, Mitsubishi achieved success in other forms of motorsport. The Pajero/Montero, Mitsubishi’s rugged SUV, dominated the Dakar Rally, one of the most challenging off-road races in the world. The Pajero won the Dakar Rally 12 times between 1985 and 2007, showcasing Mitsubishi’s engineering excellence and durability in extreme conditions.
Mitsubishi’s involvement in motorsport extended to endurance racing as well. The Mitsubishi Starion, a high-performance sports car, competed in events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the IMSA GT Championship during the 1980s. The Starion’s performance in these endurance races demonstrated Mitsubishi’s versatility and competitiveness in various racing arenas.
Despite Mitsubishi’s withdrawal from factory-backed motorsport programs in the late 2000s, the brand’s legacy in racing continues to thrive among enthusiasts. The Lancer Evolution, in particular, remains a highly revered model, celebrated for its contributions to rallying and its impact on the automotive enthusiast scene.
Today, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is remembered as one of the most iconic and successful rally cars in history. Its blend of advanced technology, performance, and motorsport heritage ensures that it remains a beloved and influential model among racing fans and car enthusiasts worldwide. Mitsubishi’s enduring legacy in motorsport reflects the brand’s dedication to performance, innovation, and the thrill of competition.
