I'm looking at getting another Evo 8/9 in a few months. I had a 05' MR that i did auto-x and road course with. Like the last one it will not be a fully dedicated track car, but I plan on attending more events next year at VIR and Summit Point. I know the faults of the six speed but I don't plan on taking the car past 350 whp so it should be fine. Still considering a five speed model as the strength is hard to deny. My biggest concern is the upper gears. My MR pretty much fell on its face in 5th gear. I've never had a 5 speed on a road course so I'm not sure how to compare it. Has anyone had a six speed and went to a 5 speed for road course?

 

I'm now on my 4th EVO... 2 5 speeds 2 6 speeds. If you're going to be tracking a lot, I would go with the 5 speed. The gear box is stronger and tighter.

 

5speed all the way.

What you don't want is the longer Evo VIII 5th gear if you can get around it. Especially if you're < 350whp.

The ultimate setup depends on the tracks you run, your tire size and your power output. But the shorter Evo IX 4th is a pain!

Think about VIR where you'd be shifting out of 4th around 105mph at 7k. Now most will push to 7500 or 7800 with a good tune. But if you have a taller tire and the longer Evo VIII 4th you can push near 120mph. You'll push near 140mph at your power level probably too; twice per lap.

I've got a ton of spreadsheet 'what-ifs' with gearing, tire size, options, etc. It all started in an old thread you should check out: https://www.evolutionm.net/forums/mo...-4th-gear.html

 

Based on your post I'm guessing that you are looking to buy an evo with the right trans in it and not change the gear ratios, correct?

If so, do the Evo8 5-speed. The Evo IX has a HUGE gap between fourth and fifth that really makes it dog out on you.

If money is no option, do a 6 speed and have the shep ultimate ratio treatment done.

 

Get an VIII, and then do this

http://teamrip.com/TRE%20EVOLUTION%2...20SERVICE.html

 

Thanks for the input. I forgot about the difference in the IX gearing. Your right in that I'm not wanting to mess with the trans at first. Ill keep an eye out for a good 8.

 

Not sure I agree with you.

The IX has a shorter 4th; but also a shorter 5th.
The VIII has a longer 4th; but also an even longer 5th. So acceleration in 5th is even slower once you get there.

 

well either way. I'm pretty much decided on a 5 speed model this time around. Thanks for the input guys. I'm gonna read up on that link you posted.