GT5 Transcripts/Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII and VIII

With the Lancer Evolution VII and VIII, the marque embarked toward its third era. This is especially significant to U.S. enthusiast because this heralded sports sedan with rallying roots would finally make its way across the Pacific. The Lan Evo VII appeared in February 2001 with fresh new styling and cutting-edge technology. The most significant of these was the ACD (Active Center Differential), which worked in conjunction with the AYC (Active Yaw Control) to enhance the car's handling dynamics by managing torque to all four tires. The WRC race Lan Evos were equipped with three active differentials, at the front, center, and rear; however the street-going version only had two. The VII also saw the first automatic transmission to be fitted into a Lan Evo. Called the Lancer Evolution VII GT-A, the car was developed for the mature enthusiast.

The Lancer Evolution VIII arrived in January 2003, and besides getting a bump in torque 289.3 ft-lb, the most notable this for us was that it was finally available as a U.S.-spec car. For Japan, ACD and AYC were both available, but U.S. versions only received it with ACD. The super high-performance Lancer Evolution VIII MR was introduced in February 2004, armed with Bilstein shocks and a lightweight aluminum hood. It quickly became the choice for spirited drivers.