2000 MITSUBISHI EVO VI TOMMI MAKINEN RS

This Mitsubishi Evo VI is a superb example of the coveted Tommi Makinen Edition road car, complete with a range of subtle performance upgrades. Under the bonnet sits a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, which has been remapped to produce 350bhp, coupled with an engaging short-ratio five-speed manual transmission. The odometer currently indicates just 57,139 km (35,504 miles).

Introduced in December 1999 to commemorate rally ace Tommi Makinen’s fourth consecutive WRC Driver’s Championship win, the Evo VI edition name in his honour features a number of changes and upgrades compared to the ‘standard’ model. These include a more aggressive bodykit, 10mm lower suspension with revised dampers, a helical front limited-slip differential and a faster-spooling titanium turbocharger, all with the aim of improving the car’s performance on tarmac surfaces.

This Evo was first registered in Japan before being imported to the UK in April 2014 and re-registered with the DVLA in September of the same year. The vehicle has been in its current keeper’s possession for five years, and is now offered on sale to a fellow enthusiast. As the lightweight RS variant of the TME – of which it is believed only 200 were made – it comes with no traction control, ABS, air bags or electric windows.

The bodywork of this Evo presents in very good order, with even panels and no known prior accident damage. It was listed as Grade 3.5 car in Japan, and the vendor states that upon arrival it had a minor paint chip to the front bumper that was rectified. There are also some small chips in the paint on the underside of the front bumper. Overall, it looks very smart, with a glossy appearance to the white paintwork.

This example has been fitted with a cat-back exhaust, as well as Ohlins Racing suspension components and an aftermarket induction system, though the vendor reports the original air box is included in the sale. The car rides on white Enkei 10-spoke alloy wheels, which are pristine, and sit in front of substantial red Brembo brake callipers and Ralliart mud flaps.

Moving inside, the seats of this special edition Evo come wrapped in a combination of black and blue fabric upholstery, which presents in superb order, along with the Lancer Evolution floor. The three-spoke Momo steering wheel and the gear knob present with some light wear to the main contact points, but this is certainly commensurate with the mileage. The original stereo system remains present, though the owner has installed a discreet Bluetooth system, complete with a new amplifier and speakers. All of the car’s switchgear is reported to work as it should, and there are no warning lights on the dashboard.

The last service was undertaken in June 2017 at around 53,000 km, where technicians at Mitsubishi specialist Norris Designs in Melksham remapped the car to produce 350bhp with a boost solenoid, fuel pump and induction kit. All of this is a reversible modification.

The car also underwent a full service, with similar maintenance being carried out in February 2017 at 55,780 km and in May 2016 at 54,678 m, both by Veysport Performance in Christchurch. The cambelt was replaced during the latter. As a precaution, the vendor had the gearbox removed and rebuild in 2017 by leading Mitsubishi specialist Transmission Dynamics in Cramlington, when a new battery was also fitted.

The vendor notes the car has been under a SORN since November 2017. It was put through an MOT on 16 November 2020 at 57,143 km, which it initially failed due to the absence of a catalytic converter. A worn anti-roll bar bracket and wiper jet were also attended to. The vendor will hand over the car with a fresh 12-month MOT certificate pending a test appointment. The vehicle’s wheels are wrapped in Bridgestone tyres all round in correct fitment 225/45/R17, which remain in good condition.

Accompanying the vehicle are the import documents and condition report, along with all of its UK service history. The car has also featured in Modern Classics magazine, and an automotive wall calendar, which are included in the sale.

This Mitsubishi Evo VI Tommi Makinen Edition RS is a superb example of highly coveted road-going rally car, built to commemorate his success in the World Rally Championship. This car has evidently been well-maintained, is in very good order throughout, and would be a fine choice for a buyer in search of a thrilling and rare B-road companion.

Summary of UK service history:

• 26/06/2017 - 53000 km - 350bhp remap, fuel pump, induction kit - Norris Design
• 01/02/2017 - 55780 km - Oil/filter/gearbox oil - Veysport Performance
• 24/05/2016 - 54678 km - Cambelt change - Veysport Performance
• 22/12/2015 - 53386 km - Oil/filter/plugs/brake fluid - Veysport Performance
• 22/12/2015 - Timing belt plus exhaust brackets - K-Tec Racing
• 11/11/2015 - Various suspension and steering work - K-Tec Racing

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence through HPI checks and MOT history where available. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.