Mitsubishi Motors North America has made a significant announcement for car enthusiasts and philanthropists alike. The very first Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Final Edition, designated as US0001 out of only 1,600 produced for the U.S. market, was donated to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Pacific South Coast Chapter. This highly collectible vehicle was auctioned off to raise crucial funds for the organization, marking a unique opportunity to own a piece of automotive history while contributing to a worthy cause. The auction, hosted online via eBay and culminating at the 29th annual MS Dinner Auction, garnered national attention from collectors eager to own the ultimate iteration of the legendary Lancer Evolution.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, often simply known as the ‘Evo,’ holds a special place in the hearts of automotive aficionados worldwide. For ten generations, it has represented the pinnacle of Mitsubishi’s engineering prowess, blending rally-bred performance with cutting-edge technology. The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Final Edition marks the end of this iconic lineage, making it an instant classic. Limited to just 1,600 units for the United States, each car is uniquely numbered, further enhancing its exclusivity and collector value. The donated US0001 model, therefore, represents the most coveted piece of this limited production run.
Image: Front view of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Final Edition showcasing its aggressive styling and iconic hood vent, emphasizing its high-performance heritage.
This Final Edition is not merely a commemorative badge; it’s the most potent mass-produced Evolution ever created. Under the hood lies a turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder 2.0L engine, delivering an impressive 303 horsepower. Paired with a 5-speed transmission, this powertrain ensures exhilarating performance synonymous with the Evo name. Building upon the GSR model, the Final Edition boasts performance enhancements including lightweight two-piece Brembo® brake rotors at the front, Bilstein shock absorbers, and Eibach springs at all four corners. Furthermore, it features Mitsubishi’s renowned Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, providing unparalleled handling and grip in diverse driving conditions. These upgrades solidify the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Final Edition’s position as the ultimate expression of the model’s performance legacy.
The National MS Society, Pacific South Coast Chapter, expressed immense gratitude for Mitsubishi Motors’ generous donation and title sponsorship of their 29th annual MS Dinner Auction. Richard Israel, President of the chapter, highlighted the profound impact of such partnerships, stating, “With the support of Mitsubishi Motors we are able to fund cutting-edge research, drive change through advocacy, facilitate professional education, collaborate with MS organizations around the world, and provide programs and services designed to help people with MS and their families move their lives forward.” The funds raised from the auction of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Final Edition directly contribute to these vital initiatives, supporting individuals and families affected by multiple sclerosis.
Image: The National MS Society logo, representing the organization’s commitment to supporting individuals affected by multiple sclerosis and funding research to combat the disease.
Mitsubishi Motors North America’s commitment to the National MS Society spans over 16 years, with numerous fundraising activities and event sponsorships. Don Swearingen, executive vice president, MMNA, emphasized the significance of this particular donation: “It was only fitting that this year, to enhance our title sponsorship of the event, we donate something that means so much to the brand. By expanding the auction nationally, we hope to increase our donation to a charity that is near and dear to the hearts of everyone at Mitsubishi.” By auctioning the US0001 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Final Edition nationwide, Mitsubishi aimed to maximize the contribution to a cause deeply valued by the company and its employees.
The auction for this exceptional vehicle was conducted live on eBay for ten days, culminating at the MS Dinner Auction in Coronado, California on November 21st. This dual-platform approach allowed both online bidders and dinner attendees to participate, broadening the reach of the auction and maximizing fundraising potential. The winning bidder not only acquired a piece of automotive history in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Final Edition US0001 but also played a crucial role in supporting the National MS Society’s mission to combat multiple sclerosis and improve the lives of those affected by this challenging condition. This event successfully combined the passion for high-performance vehicles with a powerful philanthropic endeavor, making it a memorable moment for both the automotive community and the National MS Society.
