Dear Peter

Thank you for your interest in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII. There are only 100 of these highly desirable cars being released this year. But don’t worry. Although there are still a number of details that are not yet finalised, I will keep you in touch with updates on the “V8 Slayer”*. As soon as we can confirm Evolution’s arrival date in Australia and its cost, you’ll be the first to know. But what we can tell you, is highlighted below.

WHEN WILL IT ARRIVE? The time of arrival will depend on the permit and approval process and timing through the Federal Government Department, and as we said at the Sydney Motor Show, the cars should start arriving in the first half of 2004. Our best estimate at the moment is approximately May or June ‘04.

“This car is fast. Very, very, seriously,
grown-up, you-are-kiddin’ fast.”*

WHAT AM I UP FOR? Similarly, the recommended retail price has not been set because the final specification has not been confirmed. You might have been given an indication of $60-$65,000 at the Motor Show, and we expect that that price should not be too far from the mark.

“Get ready for Supercar speed at STi cash.
The HSV basher is back!”*

HOW GOOD IS IT? The car that we bring to Australia will be of European specification, as this will be the most appropriate for the Australian market. It will also allow us to get the car here more quickly. It will have 195-196kW of power and a five-speed close-ratio manual transmission. The slight reduction in power is in order to meet emission standards, and we are working on an after-market power-up kit for owners who want maximum power from their Evolution.

We also know that the Evolution VIII will have Lancer’s famed full-time 4WD system with an Active Centre Differential, and Super Active Yaw Control in the rear differential. Expect 17” X 8” alloys fitted with 235/45R17 high performance tyres. Braking will be Brembos front and rear with Sports ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.

“The WRX is about to become cannon fodder.
The Evo era we almost missed is about to arrive –
and getting in its way could be very, very dangerous.”*

PICK A COLOUR Here’s the hard part. Try choosing a colour. Either Silver Metallic, Black Pearlescent, Yellow, Red, Blue, or White. The good news is, you still have time to think about it – but not much – the order books are filling fast.

“Sell up your Impreza WRX STis,
HSV ClubSports and FPV GTs now, because
when the EvoVIII finally gets here,
they will suddenly become obsolete.”*

I will keep you informed with further information as it becomes available, so with luck I will write to you again soon with more details. Meanwhile, on behalf of Mitsubishi Motors Australia have a very happy and prosperous 2004.

Yours sincerely

KEVIN TAYLOR
NATIONAL MANAGER, SPECIAL VEHICLES
MITSUBISHI MOTORS AUSTRALIA LTD

* MOTOR magazine January 2004