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The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, often referred to as the Evo X, is a beloved vehicle among car enthusiasts. Known for its rally heritage and performance capabilities, the Evo X has been a staple in the tuning community. One of the most impactful modifications I made to my Evo X was the installation of a Garrett GTX2867R turbocharger. This article details the real-world results of that transformation.
Understanding the Garrett GTX2867R Turbocharger
The Garrett GTX2867R turbocharger is renowned for its efficiency and performance. With a 67mm compressor wheel and a 76mm turbine wheel, it is designed to provide a significant boost in power while maintaining responsiveness. This turbocharger is particularly popular among Evo X owners looking to achieve a balance between daily drivability and track performance.
Installation Process
Installing the GTX2867R in my Evo X required careful planning and execution. Here’s a brief overview of the process:
- Gathering necessary tools and parts, including gaskets, lines, and a new intercooler.
- Removing the stock turbocharger and associated components.
- Installing the new Garrett turbocharger and ensuring all connections were secure.
- Updating the engine management system to accommodate the new turbo.
The installation took a weekend, with most of the time spent on tuning and ensuring everything was properly fitted. The transformation was not just mechanical; it also required adjustments to the car’s software for optimal performance.
Performance Improvements
After installing the Garrett GTX2867R, the performance improvements were immediately noticeable. Here are some key areas where I experienced significant gains:
- Increased Horsepower: The power output jumped from approximately 300 to 400 horsepower.
- Turbo Lag Reduction: The GTX2867R spooled faster than the stock turbo, providing quicker throttle response.
- Improved Torque: Torque delivery was smoother and more linear, enhancing drivability.
- Higher Boost Levels: The new turbo allowed for higher boost levels, leading to better acceleration.
The combination of these factors made the Evo X feel like a completely different car. It was not just about raw power; the driving experience was elevated, making it more enjoyable on both the street and the track.
Real-World Testing
To quantify the improvements, I conducted a series of real-world tests, including drag races and track days. Here are some of the results:
- Quarter-Mile Time: The quarter-mile time improved from 12.5 seconds to 11.8 seconds.
- 0-60 mph: The time dropped from 5.5 seconds to 4.2 seconds.
- Track Performance: During a recent track day, I was able to achieve faster lap times, averaging 2 seconds quicker than before.
These tests confirmed what I felt during everyday driving: the Garrett GTX2867R turbocharger significantly enhanced my Evo X’s performance.
Driving Experience
Beyond the numbers, the overall driving experience improved dramatically. The Evo X became more engaging and fun to drive. Here are some aspects of the driving experience that stood out:
- Throttle Response: The car felt more responsive, making it easier to navigate tight corners.
- Sound: The Garrett turbo produced a satisfying spool and blow-off sound that added to the driving experience.
- Confidence: With the increased power, I felt more confident pushing the car to its limits.
The transformation was not just about speed; it was about enhancing the connection between the driver and the car.
Challenges and Considerations
While the Garrett GTX2867R turbocharger offered numerous benefits, there were also challenges and considerations to keep in mind:
- Increased Maintenance: The higher power output required more frequent maintenance checks.
- Fuel Requirements: The car now required higher-octane fuel to optimize performance.
- Heat Management: Additional cooling solutions were necessary to manage the increased heat generated by the turbo.
These challenges are manageable but require commitment from the owner to ensure the vehicle remains in optimal condition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the installation of the Garrett GTX2867R turbocharger transformed my Evo X’s performance in remarkable ways. From increased horsepower and torque to enhanced driving dynamics, the benefits were clear. While there are challenges associated with such modifications, the overall experience has been rewarding. For anyone considering a turbo upgrade, the GTX2867R is a fantastic option that delivers real-world results.