That Other Evolution

As enthusiasts, we of course all know the Lancer Evolution (Lan-Evo in Initial D-speak). That iconic ecobox transformed into a mental AWD, turbocharged beast courtesy of built primarly to go toe to toe with Subaru, and compete on the world stage in the WRC. But did you know that there was another Mitsubishi Evo as well? Like the Evo it was a bit left of center. Like the Evo it was equal parts technology, power and stand-out styling.

The Pajero began life as Mitsubishi’s answer to the venerable Toyota Landcruiser. It eventually became a staple of African military-government transportation, as well as the United Nations. In the mid 90’s, Mitsubishi gave the ute the Evolution treatment, and in the process, created a bit of a monster.

Introduced in 1997, it was the street going version of the truck built to compete in the Paris-Dakar Rally. It featured a MIVEC version of the their 24 valve V6. But it was the styling that really sets it apart. It’s as wide as all outside,and is basically a real life Penny Racer.

It’s garish, it’s over the top but even 15 years on, it still is quite eye catching. But sadly, not a vehicle that could ever be bought in North America.

And yes, this post was inspirsed by Chris Harris’ recent post about possibly picking one up for a winter truck.

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Evolution and the Big Implosion – Mitsubishi, We Miss You

Mitsubishi is going through a bit of an identity crisis right now. No one quite knows what they are, least of which, it seems, are the folks on the inside. With ever increasing competition from the Korean manufacturers and with their rival Japanese firms larger, and better established, Mitsubishi has its work cut out for it. This is nothing new for Mitsubishi of course, as its been this way there, seemingly, for the last 20 years or so. Plugging along with much of a foothold in the marketplace to call their own. They make fine products I am sure, people just don’t know about them. This is what happens when a weak global economy meets increased competition, meets changing motorsport series that do not really have a place for their products (except perhaps the Paris Dakar). Instead of refining their brand, they’ve seem to have lost the recipe book. They have always bitten off a bit more than they could chew from time to time (did the world really need a $70k 3000GT VR4 Convertible?). But they had some solid ideas that they exploited. As the economy shifted, so did they, seemingly downward. Mitsubishi never was a ‘sports’ car company, in the way Porsche or Ferrari is. They’ve always been a firm that built affordable cars for the average consumer. But they also had something for the sporting set as well. Going from building a fast, relatively simple enthusiast car (in the form of their turbocharged Eclipse series of the early/mid 90’s here in the US and the early Lancer Evo’s elswhere), to leasing excess inventory cars to anyone with a pen (remember how many late 90’s-mid 2000’s Galants there were on the road?).

In the 90’s, WRC was an obvious place for a manufacturer to showcase their prowess. Major manufacturers such as Ford and Toyota went head to head with smaller firms, such as Subaru and Mitsubishi, on a global stage. Competition surely improves the breed, and the Lancer Evo certainly developed quickly. Each successive model had many selling their previous ones to get into the newest one. The cars got faster, but more capable, styling grew a bit more garish, but very much in keeping with the boy-racer times. But then of course, things began to change the world over. The WRC became too expensive for many, and the 2 cult heroes, Mitsubishi and Subaru, bowed out. Subaru and Mitsubishi both stayed in the rally game, continuing to put development into the Group N series. Mitsubishi ran out of steam however by comparison. Subaru used their STi Motorsports arm and continued to develop street parts and accessories for the road going versions of competition cars. Mitsubishi basically stopped. Their motorsport arm, Ralliart, becoming a shrinking version of its former self.

Now, many will argue the “Spirit of Competition” is still alive and well in the Evo X. It’s a great car, no doubt about it. But like other cars that were released in the midst of the global financial collapse, it hasn’t exactly set the world on fire. They tried to shift things around a bit with the introduction of the Lancer Ralliart. A good move on the surface. Make the Evo the “halo”, and give people an entry point to that brand. A car that, marketed correctly, could give a WRX a run for the affordable enthusiast’s money. But how many people actually know about it, enough to consider it? How many do YOU see on the road compared to 08-12 WRX’s? Exactly. They sorta launched it and ignored it. The Evo’s little brother is an also-ran. And the Evo itself is similarly dying on the vine compared to their chief rival – the WRX-STi

At one point in time, Mitsubishi seemingly had started on their road of brand development. The term Evolution, in and of itself, has terrific cache. People know what it means without it being considered in the realm of the automobile. Those who are ‘petrol heads’, know the label because iconic cars have worn it on their trunk lids. They could, but so far have failed to, capitalize on the term “Evo” in the eyes of the general public. While a name in and of itself does not guarantee a successful or desirable product, it does represent a big hurdle to overcome. The sizzle sells the steak. Haagen-Daaz is an iconic brand. Perhaps you think it’s the founders names? Or the town where the iconic ice cream was founded? Nope, it’s 2 totally made up words. The company was started by Polish immigrants in the Brownsville section of the Bronx. Manufacturers pay millions upon millions of dollars to research, change, focus-group to come up with a marketable name. Mitsubishi has one that could work. Despite not having much to write home about in the rest of the model range, Evo’s still command pretty big money in the used car market. People want the car, people know it’s a good car, people know what an Evolution is. Let’s hope the in and outside marketing teams at Mitsubishi come together, dig their heels in, get to their drawing boards, and Evolution-ize their product line over the next model cycle.

HeadMaster Gasket Kit for Lancer Evolution

Time to do a new headgasket in your Evo? Afraid to see what the dealer charges? Don’t be! And don’t overpay. We have em put together for both the Evo 7/8 and 9’s. These gasket kits are totally complete, and include everything you need to do the job correctly, the first time! Headgasket, cam seals, valvecover gasket, sprak plug seals, grommets, cam seals, intake and exhaust manifold gaskets, downpipe gasket, 02 housing gasket. The whole shebang!

Need a combo with headbolts (stock or ARP), or our awesome Timing Belt Kit, let us know!

Priced from just $239 SHIPPED to all 50 states! Click the picture for details or contact us at z1sales@z1auto.com

Clutchmasters Combos Now Featured

If you’re looking for an affordable, reliable performance clutch for your car, check out Competition Clutch. We’ve got specials going on right now for all sorts of cars. Order a clutch and flywheel combo, and get free shipping! Contact us at z1sales@z1auto.com for your setup

Bumper Car on Steroids

Meet Mitsubishi’s Pikes Peak entry: the I-MiEV Evolution.

3 electric motors, 320 hp. Will be interesting to see how it fares

Braid Wheels – Classic Series

There is a very obvious renaissance going on with older cars nowadays. Lots of people are re-discovering that old imports are very, very cool cars to mod. Whether your doing a period correct version, or a resto-mod blending modern with classic, you need a cool set of wheels to really finish it. For all those out there with a classic Datsun, Mazda, Toyota, Mini, Lotus, Ford, you name it – we got ya covered!

Braid’s Classic Series are an example of their ever expanding lineup. Unlike many modern brands, Braid hasn’t forgotten the classic cars. The combination of size/offset/width/color is literally whatever you can dream up. These come in sizes ranging from 13 inch to 15 inch, and widths ranging from 4.5 inch to 15 inch.

Standard color is white, gloss black, satin black, gold, silver, red, anthracite, etc,. Custom colors are available. (+$30). Serie 1 RC and Serie 2 RC can be made with machined spoke face, (+$12). Machining is standard for gold finish. Standard rim finish is anodised silver. Rims can also be polished (+$10), or painted (inner +$10, outer +$15).

Screws can be finished any standard color (+$12), hidden or semi-hidden with some exceptions.

Except for Serie 4 RC, all Classic wheels are available with or without center caps without extra charge except Serie 4 RC wheels which are made with Blind Centres. This means they don’t have a through hole but a BRAID sticker in the solid centre.

Standard offset range -100 to +100. All wheels are made hubcentric with steel bolt hole inserts

Any questions you have, let us know! email z1sales@z1auto.com or call (631)863-3820

Braid Competition Wheels – When Good Enough isn’t Good Enough

For 2012 we are now offering the full range of Braid Competition wheels. Many of you familiar with the rally scene have probably heard of Braid. For those that haven’t, here is a brief introduction.

Braid was formed in Spain in 1978, with the sole purpose of making competition level wheels primarily for rally use. Their wheels have been used by amateurs and professionals alike. Because all the design, R&D and production is done in house, they have an amazing level of customization available. Wheels can be produced in a very wide range of offsets, bolt patterns, and colors, something you are hard pressed to find almost at any price point. Because they are designed primarily for competition use, this is a firm that embraces the ‘small stuff’, such as 15 and 16 inch sizes. Sure, they offer larger wheels, for touring car, etc. but the roots are in rally racing, and that remains their bread and butter. Since it’s original introduction, the factory has expanded numerous times and today produces wheels ranging from gravel and tarmac spec cast wheels, to mulipiece, even forged and magnesium wheels.

To reiterate, these are not some fly-by-night knock off brand churning wheels out of some random factory in the middle of the pacific rim. These are legit motorsport level wheels. The same wheels the various teams through Europe use on their car, are the exact same wheels you can purchase for your car. These aren’t wheels that will fall apart in a few years, or lose a tremendous amount of value, or fall ‘out of style’. Good stuff never does!

Now, onto the good stuff! While we have access to the full range, and custom orders are easily accomplished, the following represents wheels that are available straight away

Click the picture of each for additional information and specs

Winrace T Acropolis: This is a heavy duty, pure strength oriented gravel spec wheel. Offered in 15×6.5, +45 (21.2 lbs), hubcentric, dual drilled so it fits both 5-100 and 5-114 cars, and finished in your choice of white or gold. Also available in 15×7 (22.2lbs) in gold. Both clear Subaru 4 pots

15×6.5 – $980 shipped in the 48 states per set
15×7 – $1020 shipped in the 48 states per set

Winrace TA: This is a lighter weight version of the Acropolis, making it suitable for tarmac or gravel use.

Currently in stock in 15×6.5 (18 lbs), white, +45 offset, dual drilled 5-114 and 5-100, clears factory 4 pot calipers. Priced at $960 shipped for the set in the 48 states

Winrace A: One of the most popular choices, this wheel can often be found on tarmac stages throughout Europe.

Currently in stock:

17×8 +45 (20.7 lbs) in white, dual drilled for 5-100 and 5-114 cars (clears Brembo and 4 pots). $1280 shipped in the 48 states

18×8 +49 (21.6 lbs) in gold in your choice of 5-100 or 5-114.3. Clears Brembo and 4 pots. $1376 shipped for the set in the 48 states.

Also have a limited 17×7, 5-100 +45 Winrace A in Black on special as well. Contact us for details

We will be adding the full range to our site in the coming days, so check z1auto.com often. Any specific questions you have, just ask.

Remember, while the above represents wheels that are good to go now, if you can dream it, it probably can be built! If you’ve got an event coming up that you NEED a set of wheels for, and waiting isn’t an option, we can generally have a custom set, made just for you, on your doorstep in just a few weeks time. If your car has specific needs, such as unique suspension or brake requirements, or even just a custom color, we’ll work with you to develop the right size, so it fits correctly, the first time

Thanks and Happy 2012!

EGR Delete Kit for Evo 8/9

If you’re after maximum power with minimal plumbing, for those doing drag/track days with their car who have no need for the factory EGR setup, read on!

Delete your factory EGR with this simple Billet EGR Block off plate.. These come with countersunk recessed screws for a nice clean look.

Features:

Installs in under 15 minutes
Made out of lightweight 6061-T6 billet aluminum
Black anodized / Torque Solution Laser engraved
Lifetime Warranty
Made in USA

Priced at $19.95 + shipping

To order contact us at z1sales@z1auto.com or (631)863-3820.

World’s Most Complete Evo Timing Belt Kit

As we all know the timing belt is a critical piece of equipment on your Evo. As these cars age and accumulate miles, the belt stretches and performance and reliability can be compromised. Mitsubishi suggests replacing the belt every 60,000 miles under normal use, and if your car is raced, even shorter intervals are suggested. For this reason, we have put together a comprehensive timing belt replacement kit that includes everything needed for a full, complete timing belt replacement job. Alot of times, people take shortcuts on this and only replace the belt itself. Then a few thousand miles down the road, they find some of the other components wearing, or leaking, or making noises that were not there before and are forced to do the whole job over again. Do it right the first time and don’t be caught short. If you’re bringing these parts to your mechanic, he will thank you for giving him all the complete parts needed. If you’re having friends help you with the install over a weekend, when it’s 11PM on a Saturday and there are no parts stores open to replace that noisy idler pulley, you’ll be thankful you got them all as part of the kit.

Our kit contains the following:

Timing belt, balance shaft belt, balance shaft tensioner, timing belt tensioner, AMS timing belt tool, serpentine belt (please choose with or without air conditioning below), accessory belt idler pulley, water pump, water pump gasket, thermostat, thermostat gasket. All parts carry a 1 year no hassle warranty (excludes shipping)

Need to customize it with a performance timing/balance shaft belt? No problem – we offer Gates, Greddy and HKS. Need to eliminate the balance shaft belt? No problem, we offer a kit for that too!

Prices start at $490 shipped. Contact us at z1sales@z1auto.com to order yours

Stop It!

AP Racing has been around for decades now, producing top quality brake components for every conceivable form of motorsport.

Since we’re an AP dealer, what better way to show their wares, by featuring them on a customer car. Shown installed on our customers 2004 STi

Contact us at z1sales@z1auto.com for all your AP Racing needs. From replacement disks, calipers, pads, to full big brake kits for your car or SUV, no matter what the application, we’re here to help

Why Your Oxygen Sensor Shouldn’t Be Ignored

If you’ve noticed your car performing inconsisently, can’t pass inspection due to poor emissions performance, with poor fuel economy, or running like a raped ape somedays, and like a 3 legged dog on others, it could be a faulty oxygen sensor. The 02 sensor is partially responsible for telling the ecu what to do and when. When they are new, 02 sensors relay accurate info very quickly to the ecu. When they age, or get contaminated, they act lazy, slowly relaying info, and performance and economy suffer as a result. We offer a full range of direct replacement 02 sensors from Bosch and Denso, 2 of the largest OEM suppliers in the automotive world. In fact Bosch invented the 02 sensor! These are plug and play, not some cheesy universal joint you’ve got to spend timing soldering in. Waterproof connections ensure years of reliable service. No sense paying the dealer more for the same part in a different box!

So why is it important to replace? As the sensors age, they get contaminated. Remember, these sensors sit right in the catalytic converter and the exhaust pipes, so they are forced to live in a dirty, nasty environment. As time goes on, contaminents build on the sensor itself, and it’s no longer able to react with the speed that modern ecu’s demand. These contaminants also can cause false readings to the ecu, causing the car to run significantly richer, or leaner, than it should. This can have systemic results in other areas of the car. Not only will you get poor performance and poor fuel economy, overly rich conditions can clog cats and cause injectors to stick open. Overly lean conditions can wreak havoc on your internals causing knock, as well as potential piston damage.

If you run race gas, methanol or alcohol injection, this can also cause premature 02 sensor failure. Thankfully, these sensors are affordable, and very easy to replace yourself

Contact us to order yours at z1sales@z1auto.com or (631)863-3820

Chargespeed Aero Clearance for Evo’s!!!!

Charge Speed 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VII Bottom Line Front Lip Carbon (Japanese CFRP)
Charge Speed 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VII Bottom Line Front Lip FRP (Japanese FRP)
Charge Speed 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VII Bottom Line Full Lip Kit (5PCS) Carbon CS423FLC, CS423SSC, CS423RCC
Charge Speed 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VII Bottom Line Full Lip Kit (5PCS) FRP CS423FLF, CS423SSF, CS423RCF
Charge Speed 2002-2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VII & VIII Eye Line (Japanese FRP) Pair
Charge Speed 2002-2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VII, VIII & IX Type-2 Full Kit W/ Carbon: CS424FB2, CS424SS, CS424RB2
Charge Speed 2002-2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VII, VIII & IX Type-2 Full Kit With EVO IX Carbon Rear Bumper: CS424FB2, CS424SS, CS424RB9C
Charge Speed 2002-2008 Mitsubishi Lancer EVO VIII OEM Carbon Hood (Japanese CFRP)
Charge Speed 2002-2008 Mitsubishi Lancer EVO VII, VIII, IX Carbon Outlet Style Hood Duct (Japanese CFRP)
Charge Speed 2002-2008 Mitsubishi Lancer EVO VIII OEM Lightweight FRP Hood (Japanese FRP)
Charge Speed 2002-2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VII & VIII Rear Bumper (Japanese FRP)
Charge Speed 2002-2008 Mitsu Lancer Evo VII, VIII & IX Type-2 Rear Bumper With Carbon Diffuser (Japanese CFRP)
Charge Speed 2002-2008 Mitsubishi Lancer OEM JDM Evo IX Rear Bumper With Carbon Center Diffuser (Japanese CFRP)
Charge Speed 2002-2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VII & VIII Rear Skirt-Fit JDM Only (Japanese FRP)
Charge Speed 2003-2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VIII Front Spoiler (Japanese FRP)
Charge Speed 2003-2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VIII Full Lip Kit 4PCS.-FIT JDM BUMPER ONLY CS424FL, CS424SS, CS424RS
Charge Speed 1993-1996 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo I & II 4Dr. Front Bumper (Japanese FRP)

Contact us at z1sales@z1auto.com for best pricing!

M7 Japan M7 Hyper Sound Blow Off Valve Type GT-7

Hyper Sound Blow Off Valve Type GT-7 employs the Dual Drive System. The purpose of Dual Drive System is to relieve compressor surge without reducing compressor speed.The funnel and body with ribs employs high quality aluminum die-cast to ensured heat dissipation radiation. Creates a sharp sound by adopting the Venturi effect.The M7 blow off valve not only improves performance and response, but also increases the life of the turbocharger.

Currently available in Universal, GTR R35, Impreza WRX/STI GDB/GRB and Evolution 7-9 CT9A specific kits.

New Product Releases from M7 Japan

Click This Logo to go to the Official M7 Japan Site

Introducing the latest design from M7 Japan, the M7 catback exhaust system is a high performance exhaust system with styling to match. The exhaust is constructed of high grade Japanese stainless steel with ported flanges to increase the exhaust flow for your turbo vehicle. Each exhaust systems are carefully manufactured to the correct specs for easy bolt on installation and fitment. When installed, it provides a excellent exhaust note for daily street driving yet maintain a the race performance of a race exhaust when used under full acceleration.

M7-TCBM-3  M7 T-Titan Catback Exhaust System for Mitsubishi 2008+ EVO X CZ4A (Dual Tip) 

Features:
Full 2.75in Stainless Steel Piping
Dual Rear Muffler Design
Replaceable and Length Adjustable Tip (can extended out additional 4in)
M7 Designed silencer within the muffler for the perfect exhaust note
Titanium burnt faded tip

M7-TCBM-5 M7 T-Titan Catback Exhaust System for Subaru 2008+ WRX GH8 (Single Tip)

Features:
Full 2.75in Stainless Steel Piping
Single  Rear Muffler Design
Replaceable and Length Adjustable Tip (can extended out additional 4in)
M7 Designed silencer within the muffler for the perfect exhaust note
Titanium burnt faded tip

M7-RST-7 M7 Bride Special Edition Nobuteru Taniguchi Racing Seat (Black/Gradient)

Get your hands on one today! The M7 Limited Edition Nobuteru Taniguchi Racing seat are the same seats used by Taniguchi in the GT racing series  in Japan when he is driving for M7. Each seat features a custom embroidered logo on top with Taniguchi’s name and are FIA approved so you can do some of your own GT racing! Each seat comes with a silver metallic shell and features a non slip buckskin shoulder support. Supplies are limited get one before they run out!

The best part is that all of these items are currently in stock and ready to ship. If you would like pricing on these or any other items from M7 Japan please contact us and we’ll be glad to give you a quote.

LED Mirror Covers for Evo X

These new LED lense mirror covers from EvoSoul Mirror for your Evo X feature full ABS construction and nice, tight OEM like fitment. All required wiring is included to make them illuminate with your turn signal lenses (replaces factory mirror cover). The lenses themselves are smoked grey for a nice OEM appearance. Ready for prep/paint and install!