Evo I - The Start

The Evolution I was introduced in 1992 to compete in the World Rally Championship. It used the 2.0 L turbocharged DOHC engine and 4WD drivetrain from the original Galant VR-4 in a Lancer chassis, and was sold in GSR and RS models. The latter was a stripped-down club racing version that lacked power windows and seats, anti-lock brakes, a rear wiper, and had steel wheels to save approximately 155 lb (70 kg) less than the 2730 lb (1238 kg) GSR, while the former came with all of the conveniences of a typical street car. It came with Mitsubishi's 4G63 engine producing 250 PS (244 hp/182 kW) at 6000 rpm and 228 ft·lbf (309 N·m) at 3000 rpm, along with all wheel drive which would become a trademark on all Evolution models. 5,000 Evolution Is were sold between 1992 and 1993.

First generation
Production: October 1992–January 1994
Platform: CD9A
Wheelbase: 2500 mm
Length: 4310 mm
Width: 1695 mm
Height: 1395 mm
Ride height: 150 mm
Front track: 1450 mm
Rear track: 1460 mm
Curb: 1170–1240 kg

Engine: All Aluminum, 4G63 Inline-4
Position: Front Transverse
Valvetrain: DOHC, 4 Valves per Cyl
Displacement: 1997 cc / 121.9 cu in
Bore: 3.35 in
Stroke: 3.46 in
Compression: 8.8:1
Power: 186.4 kw / 250 bhp
Hp per litre: 125.19 bhp per litre
Bhp/weight: 201.61 bhp per weight
Torque: 228 ft lbs @ 3000 rpm
Drive: wheels Front Engine / 4WD
Front tire size: 195/55R15
Rear tire size: 195/55R15
Weight: 2734 lbs