For more than a decade the Evo went toe-to-toe with Subaru's Impreza and introduced frankly startling performance, breeding a generation of supercar killer enthusiasts. As the name suggests, each iteration was a bit faster, a tad sharper and at the same time even more user-friendly. First introduced in Japan and Geneva on the same day in March 2005, the Mitsubishi Evolution IX was well received as it was built on the already impressive Evo VIII MR, retaining its Bilstein suspension dampers, active yaw control differential and super ABS system, while adding low-end response with MIVEC variable valve timing and a lengthened turbocharger diffuser. Production was a short-lived affair that only lasted until January 2007 but is lauded as being the last 'true' Evo as the Evo X never competed in WRC. The biggest difference separating the IX from the VIII was the adoption of MIVEC variable valve timing for the venerable 4G63 1,997cc turbo motor. By matching inlet valve timing to the engine speed and load, low-rev response is turned up a notch with the bonus of a freer-revving top-end. Couple this to a lengthened turbo tract that improves low-end torque and it's no surprise to find the Evo's power delivery is more flexible and measured than ever.

As build number 23, this fantastic Evo IV FQ340 is already a rare car, but has since been meticulously built into a 500bhp example by Montani Racing and kept as part of the Zerberus Rapidus Museum. Sparing no expense, the engine has been built using the highest quality components including the HKS turbo that cost over £4,000 alone. The 2.1 litre engine has Manley low compression pistons, long conrods and a new crank with uprated components being used throughout. Having been balanced to within 0.1g, this blueprint-built engine runs incredibly smoothly. Running a safe mapping limiting power to around 'just' the 500bhp mark, the engine could reportedly be mapped to over 800bhp. The vendor reports the car to run and drive like no other with a fantastic balance of power and handling and such is the care he has taken of the car that he has only ever used driving gloves and worn clean shoes to maintain the interior is kept in as good condition as the rest of the car.

Supplied with a V5C registration document as well as documented history of the work done to the car. Becoming ever more appreciated, these Japanese rally saloons combine performance with competition success from one of the greatest periods of rally competition. Consigned by Will Penrose

Lot details
Year: 2005
Make: Mitsubishi
Model: EVO IX MR FQ340
Registration: MH55 WJX
Chassis No: CT9A0405016
Odometer: 45,000

* Impressive condition
* High specification HKS engine (circa 500bhp)
* Early build number (23)