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The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX (Evo 9) is a legendary performance car that has captured the hearts of enthusiasts around the world. With its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system, the Evo 9 is a platform that offers immense potential for power upgrades. In this article, we will explore the top 50 horsepower gains achievable through various performance modifications.
1. Performance Tuning
One of the most effective ways to increase horsepower is through performance tuning. By optimizing the engine’s fuel and ignition maps, you can unlock significant gains.
- ECU Remapping: Up to 30 HP
- Standalone Engine Management: Up to 50 HP
2. Upgraded Turbocharger
Replacing the stock turbocharger with a larger, more efficient unit can dramatically increase airflow and boost pressure, leading to substantial horsepower gains.
- Big Turbo Upgrade: Up to 100 HP
- Hybrid Turbo: Up to 70 HP
3. High-Performance Exhaust System
A high-performance exhaust system reduces back pressure and improves exhaust flow, which can enhance engine efficiency and power output.
- Cat-Back Exhaust: Up to 15 HP
- Turbo Back Exhaust: Up to 25 HP
4. Cold Air Intake
Installing a cold air intake allows the engine to draw in cooler, denser air, which can lead to improved combustion and increased power.
- Performance Cold Air Intake: Up to 10 HP
5. Intercooler Upgrade
Upgrading the intercooler helps to lower intake air temperatures, which can improve performance under boost.
- Front Mount Intercooler: Up to 20 HP
6. Fuel System Upgrades
Enhancing the fuel delivery system ensures that your engine receives the proper amount of fuel, especially when running higher boost levels.
- Upgraded Fuel Pump: Up to 15 HP
- High-Flow Fuel Injectors: Up to 20 HP
7. Engine Internals
For those looking for extreme power, upgrading engine internals can handle higher boost levels and increase reliability.
- Forged Pistons: Up to 30 HP
- Forged Connecting Rods: Up to 25 HP
8. Lightweight Components
Reducing weight can improve power-to-weight ratio, making the car feel faster and more responsive.
- Lightweight Wheels: Up to 5 HP
- Carbon Fiber Hood: Up to 10 HP
9. Suspension Upgrades
While not directly increasing horsepower, improved suspension allows for better traction and handling, maximizing the power you already have.
- Coilover Suspension: Improved traction
- Upgraded Sway Bars: Improved handling
10. Brake System Upgrades
Upgrading the brake system enhances stopping power, allowing you to safely manage increased horsepower.
- Big Brake Kit: Improved stopping power
- Performance Brake Pads: Enhanced braking performance
11. Drivetrain Enhancements
Improving the drivetrain can ensure that the power generated by the engine is effectively transmitted to the wheels.
- Short Shifter: Quicker gear changes
- Performance Clutch: Better power transfer
12. Engine Cooling Upgrades
Keeping the engine cool is crucial for performance, especially under high load conditions.
- Upgraded Radiator: Better cooling efficiency
- Oil Cooler: Improved oil temperature management
13. Exhaust Manifold
Upgrading the exhaust manifold can improve exhaust flow, reducing turbo lag and increasing power.
- Performance Exhaust Manifold: Up to 15 HP
14. Boost Control Upgrades
Enhancing boost control allows for more precise management of boost levels, optimizing performance.
- Electronic Boost Controller: Up to 10 HP
15. Weight Reduction
Reducing the overall weight of the vehicle can enhance performance and agility.
- Removing Unnecessary Components: Variable HP gains
- Lightweight Battery: Up to 5 HP
16. Advanced Ignition System
Upgrading the ignition system can lead to better combustion efficiency, resulting in more power.
- High-Performance Spark Plugs: Up to 5 HP
- Ignition Coil Upgrade: Up to 10 HP
17. Engine Bay Modifications
Enhancing airflow in the engine bay can improve cooling and performance.
- Ventilated Hood: Improved airflow
- Heat Shielding: Reduced heat soak
18. Turbo Timer
Installing a turbo timer can help prolong turbo life and maintain performance.
- Turbo Timer: Improved turbo longevity
19. Performance Software
Utilizing performance software can help track and optimize vehicle performance.
- Performance Data Logging Software: Enhanced tuning capabilities
20. Custom Fabrication
Custom fabrication of parts can allow for unique upgrades tailored to specific performance goals.
- Custom Exhaust Manifold: Variable HP gains
- Custom Intake Plenum: Variable HP gains
21. Aerodynamic Enhancements
Improving aerodynamics can reduce drag and enhance overall performance.
- Front Splitter: Improved downforce
- Rear Spoiler: Enhanced stability
22. Track-Specific Modifications
Modifications tailored for track use can significantly improve performance in competitive settings.
- Race Tires: Enhanced grip
- Weight Distribution Adjustments: Improved handling
23. Engine Management Systems
Advanced engine management systems can provide greater control over engine parameters for optimal performance.
- Standalone ECU: Up to 50 HP
24. Ignition Timing Adjustments
Fine-tuning ignition timing can enhance performance and efficiency.
- Dynamic Ignition Timing: Variable HP gains
25. Turbo Blanket
A turbo blanket can help maintain turbo temperature, improving efficiency and performance.
- Turbo Blanket: Enhanced turbo efficiency
26. Engine Bay Cleaning
Keeping the engine bay clean can prevent overheating and improve performance.
- Regular Cleaning: Improved engine efficiency
27. Performance Camshafts
Upgrading camshafts can enhance airflow and improve engine performance.
- Performance Camshafts: Up to 25 HP
28. Valve Spring Upgrades
Upgrading valve springs can allow for higher RPMs and improved performance.
- High-Performance Valve Springs: Up to 10 HP
29. Oil Catch Can
An oil catch can helps keep the intake system clean, improving performance over time.
- Oil Catch Can: Enhanced engine cleanliness
30. Performance Engine Mounts
Upgrading engine mounts can reduce engine movement, improving power transfer to the wheels.
- Performance Engine Mounts: Improved power transfer
31. Turbo Inlet Pipe
Upgrading the turbo inlet pipe can improve airflow to the turbocharger, enhancing performance.
- High-Flow Turbo Inlet Pipe: Up to 10 HP
32. Performance Air Filters
High-performance air filters can improve airflow to the engine, resulting in better performance.
- High-Flow Air Filter: Up to 5 HP
33. Upgraded Alternator
Upgrading the alternator can ensure that electrical components receive adequate power, especially under high-performance conditions.
- Performance Alternator: Enhanced electrical performance
34. Tire Upgrades
Improving tire quality can enhance grip and performance, allowing for better power application.
- Performance Tires: Improved traction
35. Steering Enhancements
Upgrading the steering system can improve responsiveness and handling, maximizing the driving experience.
- Quick Ratio Steering Rack: Improved response
36. ECU Cooling
Keeping the ECU cool can enhance performance and reliability.
- ECU Cooling Mod: Improved performance stability
37. Performance Differential
Upgrading the differential can improve power distribution to the wheels, enhancing traction.
- Limited Slip Differential: Improved traction
38. Exhaust Gas Temperature Gauge
Installing an exhaust gas temperature gauge can help monitor performance and prevent overheating.
- EGT Gauge: Enhanced performance monitoring
39. Performance Battery
Upgrading to a lightweight performance battery can reduce weight and improve electrical performance.
- Lightweight Performance Battery: Improved weight distribution
40. Turbo Speed Controller
A turbo speed controller can help manage turbo spool and performance effectively.
- Turbo Speed Controller: Improved turbo performance
41. Underdrive Pulley
An underdrive pulley can help reduce parasitic losses, improving overall engine performance.
- Underdrive Pulley: Up to 10 HP
42. Performance Radiator Cap
A performance radiator cap can help maintain optimal cooling system pressure, improving efficiency.
- High-Pressure Radiator Cap: Enhanced cooling efficiency