2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR Road Test

To state its case, Mitsubishi held a global launch in Vancouver, Canada, an odd location being that the EVO is one of the only Mitsu models not available north of the 49th

Mitsubishi held a global launch in Vancouver, Canada, an odd location considering the car won't be sold north of the 49th parallel. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

parallel due to that country's 5 mph bumper restrictions and a certain low-hanging oil cooler that sustains too much damage at that speed to qualify. Nevertheless, legions of eager American, European and a sprinkle of Canadian auto journalists descended on the town to discover, or rediscover just how far Mitsubishi had developed its latest EVO.

It's a Japanese BMW M3, with easier access to the rear seats, more interior room, a larger trunk, a more compliant suspension (the M3 is punishing) and a much lower price. What's more, the EVO is easier to drive fast than an M3, especially on rough terrain and even more when road surfaces are slippery. I bet that side by side it would be a close race through the slalom.

I like the M3 comparo as both vehicles are loosely based on FIA-sanctioned race cars. One fights it out in the top levels of

The EVO is easier to drive fast than a BMW M3, especially on rough terrain and even more when road surfaces are slippery. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

sports car racing, which includes such notable events as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona, while the EVO regularly runs through dirt, mud, snow and occasionally pavement in the World Rally Championship. Totally different missions for sure, but in the end two seriously competent passenger cars.

The Mitsu is more of a "race replica," however, or at least it looks more like all it needs are some sponsorship stickers and a number attached to each door in order to enter it in the Monte Carlo rally. Obviously the differences between an actual rally equipped car and the made-for-consumption version are great, benefiting the latter in most cases.