STEPHEN Morrison’s 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer GLXi may share some heritage with the world rallying legend, the Lancer Evolution, but he’s resisted the urge to turn his car into one, and has created his own unique spin.

“I got the car from my father in 2004,” Morrison said.

With the car in hand and motorsports in his brain, the modifications began quickly. He changed the wheels and added a muffler, which satisfied him until he could afford to do more. The fact that he’s not copied the formula already set by the Evolution is even more striking, given his friendship with one of the biggest proponents of the diamond star badge, racer Andre Anderson.

Under the guidance of Anderson’s Motorsport, Morrison got even more serious about his love of performance. Out went the stock engine and in went a hybrid of the 1800cc turbocharged short block mated to the 1600cc naturally aspirated head. The combination puts down 246hp and 230lb/ft of torque, running 15 pounds of boost through its Evolution III turbocharger to the front wheels. The computer was upgraded to that of an Evolution VII and programmed by Marcus Hay, another Dover regular from team HS Engineering.

“I was excited when I got back the car and was more than happy with the performance. Both did a great job,” he said.

Things didn’t end there, as having such high-pedigree tuners working on his ride, the whole car had to be sorted under their expert guidance. An ACT stage II clutch, pressure plate and lighter Evolution III flywheel reside between the engine and a gearbox from the diesel L200 pick-up.

“It’s stronger than the regular gearbox and has the longer ratios which are perfect for the turbocharged engine,” Morrison explained.

Suspension is handled by RSR Ti2000 lowering springs and help the 16-inch wheel package grip the road during spirited driving. Externally, only the gold-coloured front-mounted intercooler gives any real clue to the ability of the Lancer. Holding fast to his tastes, Morrison has avoided copying the Evolution IV’s aggressive bodywork.

“I like the Lancer styling,” he said.

Inside, an Autometer air/fuel gauge and Mookeeh Mk1 boost gauge grace the clean standard interior.

“Right now I’m working on getting bigger brakes and upgrading to coil-over suspension,” he said.

— Rory Daley