Evos and Imprezas didn't really get better than P1 and final IX - how good are they today?
For those of a certain age and persuasion - and more than a few PHer - this duel is as exciting as any supercar shootout. Between them, the Subaru Impreza and Mitsubishi Lancer Evo transformed the enthusiast car market, both representing a completely different take on what a vaguely affordable, practical performance car could be.
Wherever you find them, expect to spend a good few minutes just taking each in. There’s the weird stuff - wipers on saloon-shaped cars and those Sonic-style vortices on the Evo - as well as the wonderful: that monster Mitsubishi exhaust is almost as iconic as the Subaru scoop. The dimensions are notable, too; compact and slender and perfect for narrow country lanes, both have modest 17-inch wheels and a generous tyre profile.
Any Evo is impossible to drive slowly, though the final IX - just 200 of the HKS-fettled, 371hp cars were made, priced from £34,539 - really does up the ante. Everything about this Mitsubishi is so urgent, so insatiable, so indefatigable that resistance is futile; once warmed through it wants absolutely everything. Below 3,500rpm, the 2.
It corners more calmly than the Evo, which is what always made the pair such an intriguing matchup; despite such similar remits and specs, the experiences are quite different. The Impreza’s balance isn’t so determinedly daft, with a bit of push to work through before the rear of the car comes into play. No bother; slow it down a bit more, take a beat mid-corner, then rocket out with the traction and torrent of boost.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
What’s the Difference Between the Subaru Forester and Subaru Outback?We help you decide between these two competent Subaru crossovers.
Read more »
Mitsubishi Evo IX MR FQ-360 by HKSThere's no better place for hot Evos than here in Britain - and they don't come much hotter than this
Read more »
2024 Subaru WRX to Ditch Monostable Turn Signal StalkThe monostable turn signal stalk in the 2023 Subaru WRX will be replaced in the 2024 model, according to recent reports. The stalk's design, which always returns to the center position, has received criticism from potential buyers. A video from a Subaru sales rep confirms the change.
Read more »
Subaru WRX Long-Term Update | Say goodbye to the silly stalkGet in-depth info on the 2023 Subaru WRX including prices, specs, reviews, options, safety and reliability ratings.
Read more »
Armored 2016 Subaru Forester cash transport could be a great deal ...Get in-depth info on the 2016 Subaru Forester including prices, specs, reviews, options, safety and reliability ratings.
Read more »
Subaru Can Do This Or Rivian Can Do It For ThemIt's good news that Subaru and Panasonic's battery partnership is taking shape, because Rivian's plans seem ready to take its business.
Read more »