The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII and Audi RS3 have more than a decade between them, but these two modified examples proved to be very well-matched in a series of straight-line races.
The Evo featured in this video from Hoonigan sports a massive new turbocharger under the hood, as well as a host of other impressive upgrades that, according to the owner, result in it pumping out between 700 and 800 hp. It is also rolling on a set of drag radial tires at all four corners, has been fitted with aftermarket coilovers and weighs approximately 2,900 lbs (1,315 kg).
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By comparison, the Audi RS3 has a 2.5-liter five-cylinder with new pistons, rods, a carbon fiber air intake, a bigget turbocharger and some other changes, for an output of 800 hp. Whereas the Mitsubishi has a H-pattern transmission that requires manual shifting, the Audi uses a seven-speed dual-clutch, which should give it a significant advantage in gear changes.
In the first of the two races, the Mitsubishi has the far better launch and jumps out to an early lead over the Audi. The duo build speed at impressive pace and, despite the Mitsubishi driver losing some time needing to shift manually, the RS3 simply can’t keep up. In the second race, the Audi gets off the line slightly better and edges ahead, thanks in no small part to the Evo driver missing a shift.