The 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 8 MR featured here stands as a street-ready weapon with serious attitude. Built by an owner with deep knowledge of performance and style, this Evo competes as a modern rival to high-powered Subarus, delivering a lightweight platform with massive tuning potential. With a 2.2L stroker, a Garrett GTX3582 turbo, and full carbon aero treatment, this Evo 8 MR is anything but subtle.
Exterior Mods – Lightweight, Wide, and Aggressive
Aesthetic and aerodynamic upgrades elevate this build beyond factory:
- OEM Evo 8/8MR Front Bar for a clean but aggressive look
- Varis-Style Carbon Fiber Front Lip adds front-end downforce and presence
- OEM HMR Headlights with factory blackout treatment for stealth
- Aluminium Bonnet, Boot & Roof – factory upgrades exclusive to the 8MR trim
- TE37 Wheels (18×9.5 +22) – ideal Evo fitment, wrapped in Yokohama ADO8s
- Purple Calipers – color-matched to the valve cover for cohesive detail
- Carbon Side Skirt Extensions & Vortex-Style Rear Diffuser – tied together for full carbon ground effect
- OEM Carbon Fiber Rear Spoiler from factory 8MR/9 trims
Interior Setup – OEM-Plus Precision
Inside, the cabin preserves factory heritage while integrating key monitoring upgrades:
- Factory Recaro Alcantara Bucket Seats with red stitching unique to Evo 8MR
- OEM Momo Evo 8MR Steering Wheel – blacked-out, no chrome trim
- Factory Carbon Trim Accents
- Defi Gauges (Oil Temp, Oil Pressure, Boost) with controller unit
- AEM Wideband AFR Gauge for tuning accuracy
- 5-Speed Gearbox Swap (preferred over stock 6-speed for durability under power)
Engine Bay – 2.2L Stroker with US-Spec Turbo Setup
This Evo isn’t just visually striking; it’s mechanically formidable:
- 2.2L Stroker Engine built for high output and torque
- Kelford 272 Cams with Adjustable Cam Gears
- SDM Forward-Facing Turbo Kit from the US, includes:
- SDM Manifold
- Garrett GTX3582 Turbo (800HP Rated)
- 45mm Tial External Wastegate (v-band)
- Mishimoto Radiator + Custom Catch Can
- Battery Relocation to Boot to accommodate turbo plumbing
- Titanium Intake Piping for heat resistance and engine bay style
- ETS 3.5″ Intercooler – widest size that fits behind factory bar
- Custom Turbo-Back Exhaust with Cut-Out Valve
- Opens at high boost to relieve back pressure and increase flow
- Flex-Fuel Setup with Sensor – allows E85 or pump blends
- Bosch Motorsport 1650cc Injectors + Plazmaman Fuel Rails
Boot Setup – Practical Relocation
- Battery Relocation with appropriate wiring and fusing to maintain safety and accessibility
Performance Figures
- Power Output: – 372kW(500HP) on current tune
- Turbo Capability: -596.56kW (800HP) potential
- Fuel System: Flex-ready with 1650cc injectors
- Boost System: Controlled via external wastegate and cut-out valve
- Weight Estimate: 1,200–1,300kg range
Owner’s Build Journey
Inspired by the World Rally Championship legacy of the Evo platform, this build was created for street performance with motorsport influence. The choice of a 5-speed transmission over the weaker 6-speed OEM unit reflects the owner’s long-term reliability focus. The addition of the US-built SDM turbo kit and high-end fueling and cooling solutions allow the car to be pushed hard without compromise.
The owner’s favorite feature is the exhaust cut-out system, which gives the car dual personalities depending on boost level and driving mood. Looking ahead, the next step may involve fitting a sequential or H-pattern dog box to handle additional power.
Despite the deep investment, this isn’t a “forever car,” but rather a milestone build reflecting the owner’s passion and evolving goals.
Final Words
The 2004 Mitsubishi Evo 8 MR featured here is a street car with the soul of a rally warrior. Blending nostalgic appeal with cutting-edge mods demonstrates what’s possible when commitment, engineering, and vision collide. With power nearing the edge of its built drivetrain, this Evo strikes a rare balance between functional street use and show-stopping performance.
Stay tuned for more feature builds like this in our community. Got questions or want to know more? Contact us at Garage Full Throttle for more information on builds like this.