1992 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I is approximately 1,270 kg (about 2,800 lbs). This relatively lightweight figure for a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive performance sedan allows for brisk acceleration and nimble handling. The lighter weight enhances the car's responsiveness, making it more fun to drive and easier to control around corners. The balance between performance and weight efficiency was key to its success in rally racing and contributed to its reputation as a lightweight but potent performance vehicle.

The wheelbase of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I measures approximately 2,460 mm (96.9 inches). A shorter wheelbase like this typically contributes to increased agility and sharper handling characteristics, which are essential for a rally-inspired performance vehicle. However, it may also make the ride slightly firmer compared to cars with longer wheelbases, as it enhances responsiveness but sacrifices some ride comfort. Overall, the Evolution I's wheelbase strikes a good balance for sporty driving while maintaining adequate stability.

Yes, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Standard garages typically have a door width of around 2,400 to 2,700 mm (94 to 106 inches) and a minimum length of about 4,800 mm (189 inches). With its width of 1,695 mm (66.7 inches) and length of 4,255 mm (167.5 inches), the Evo I's compact size allows it to park easily within these confines, providing sufficient clearance on all sides. This makes it a practical choice for enthusiasts who want a high-performance car that can be stored without special accommodations.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I is based on the existing Lancer sedan platform but features slightly larger and more aggressive dimensions than the earlier Lancer models from the late 1980s. While the base Lancer was roughly similar in length and width, the Evo I was enhanced mechanically and stylistically, including subtle changes in exterior dimensions to accommodate a more powerful engine and all-wheel-drive system. The Evo I has wider fender flares and a lower ride height, making it sportier and visually more aggressive than the predecessor Lancer, despite sharing a similar overall footprint.

Inside the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I, passenger space is somewhat compact but sufficient for a small sedan of its era, designed more with performance in mind than luxury. The vehicle seats five, but rear legroom and headroom may be a bit tight for taller passengers due to the car's low roofline and sporty suspension setup. Cargo capacity is limited compared to larger sedans or hatchbacks, as the car's design prioritized lightweight agility and handling over practicality. The trunk space suffices for daily necessities and occasional luggage but is not designed for large cargo loads.

Dimensional comparisons place the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I slightly smaller or similar to contemporary rally-influenced sedans such as the Subaru Legacy RS or the early Toyota Celica GT-Four. While these rivals often offered slightly larger dimensions or different body styles, the Evo I's compact length of 4,255 mm (167.5 inches) and width of 1,695 mm (66.7 inches) made it one of the more nimble and agile commercial rally vehicles on the market. Its relatively smaller footprint contributed to superior maneuverability on tight courses, a key advantage in rally and street performance contexts.

The 1992 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I features exterior dimensions that balance compactness and aerodynamics: a length of around 4,255 mm (167.5 inches), width of 1,695 mm (66.7 inches), and height of 1,350 mm (53.1 inches). The car's relatively low height and wider stance improve aerodynamic efficiency and stability at high speeds. Additionally, the car includes functional exterior features like a front air dam, rear spoilers, and wide fender flares, all contributing to better downforce and reduced drag, which enhance its performance both on the road and in rally racing environments.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution II, released in 1994 as the successor to the Evolution I, featured several upgrades in both dimensions and mechanical components. Dimensionally, the Evolution II became slightly wider and lower, improving handling and stance. It also adopted improved aerodynamics with revised bumpers and spoilers. Mechanically, it included enhancements such as improved turbocharging and suspension refinements. These changes aimed to address the performance feedback from the Evolution I, resulting in a car that offered better stability, increased power output, and sharper driving dynamics, enhancing its rally and street capabilities.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I is designed with a ground clearance of approximately 140 mm (5.5 inches). This relatively low clearance enhances the car's center of gravity, improving cornering stability and handling performance, especially on paved roads and rally tracks. However, this height can limit the car's ability to navigate rough, uneven terrain or deep snow compared to vehicles with higher clearance. For typical on-road use and light off-road driving, the Evo I's ground clearance provides a good compromise between performance and practicality.