The Mitsubishi Lancer evo 2 of 1994 built upon the rally success of the original Evo. While retaining the raw performance feel, Mitsubishi refined the formula for even quicker real-world speed. Let’s examine the advancements that kept the Evo II cemented among rally legends.
More Powerful and Efficient Turbo Engine
The Mitsubishi Lancer evo 2 retained the 4G63 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4, but with tweaks to make it the definitive iteration. New turbine design reduced turbo lag while larger intercoolers improved intake temperatures. This allowed boosting pressure for 276 hp, up from the Evo I’s 247 hp.
Weight reduction from an aluminum hood and trunk plus improved aerodynamics boosted efficiency. The engine felt significantly sharper across the rev range. Throttle response tightened up for more eagerness even at low rpm.
Handling Dynamics Taken to New Extremes
While brutally quick in a straight line, the Evolution also out-handled rivals. Mitsubishi stiffened the front springs and shocks while adding larger front and rear anti-roll bars. This kept body motions flatter during aggressive corner carving.
The limited-slip differential also reduced torque steer while accelerating out of tight bends. Revised tuning for more on-center steering feel improved responsiveness. Through corners, the Evo II felt planted and neutral.
Functional Yet Aggressive Styling Cues
Subtle exterior enhancements reflect the Evo II’s heavy performance revisions beneath the sheetmetal. The aluminum hood and rear spoiler were lengthened and raised for extra engine cooling and aerodynamics.
Side air vents behind the front wheels helped reduce lift at high speed. Round fog lights modernized the front fascia. Twin tail pipes indicated the forced induction powerhouse underneath. Form followed function.
Legendary Rally Pedigree-Mitsubishi Lancer evo 2
Homologation rules required road-going versions for rally racing. This resulted in direct carryover of technology from the World Rally Championship to the street legal Evo II. Enthusiasts could experience real motorsport engineering at affordable prices.
The road car replicated the rally-tuned suspension, limited-slip diffs, and turbocharged performance that dominated rally events at the time. Civilian buyers gained competition advantages without aftermarket mods.
Giant-Slaying Performance Value
Despite its compact sedan packaging, the Evo II could challenge the world’s top-tier sports cars. Consumers got rally-proven engineering and racing capability far above the reasonable $29,000 MSRP.
Generous standard equipment also made the Evo II a performance bargain. The practical four-door body increased daily livability versus stripped-down coupes. Mitsubishi perfected accessible world-beating performance.
Mitsubishi Lancer evo 2 Cementing the Evolution Legend
In the II, Mitsubishi refined the first-gen Evolution concept into its supreme embodiment. Few changes looked major individually, but collectively transformed the driving experience. Nimble handling, potent turbo power, and rally design came together holistically.
With masterful attention to detail, Mitsubishi evolved the Evo into a legend beyond its compact sedan shells. Performance seekers worldwide still revere the Evo II decades later as an automotive icon. It continues defining the pinnacle for street-legal sport compacts.
