Mitsubishi Lancer WRC

How it changed

The WRC2 model improved weight distribution and lowered the centre of gravity compared to the earlier Evo WRC.^[2] It received a new front air dam, intercooler, exhaust manifold, single-scroll turbocharger, and lightened engine rotating parts.^[2] For 2004, Mitsubishi returned with the WRC04, which had a 5-speed semi-automatic transmission and a new all-wheel-drive system co-developed with Ricardo Consulting Engineers.^[2] The bodywork underwent extensive aerodynamic testing at the Lola Cars wind tunnel, producing a new front air dam and a rear spoiler.^[5]

Mitsubishi did not complete the full 2004 season, skipping events in Japan, Great Britain, Italy, France, and Australia to focus on development.^[5] To accommodate the contrasting driving techniques of McRae and Delecour, the suspension was revised to provide increased travel and stiffness, while the gearbox received minor modifications.^[2] After ending its WRC participation in 2002, Mitsubishi continued to use the car for testing in 2003, where McRae secured a 6th-place finish at Rally New Zealand.^[2]

What the maker and period sources say

A Mitsubishi-motors source states the Lancer WRC04 was unveiled at the Essen Motor Show in November 2003, with testing beginning that month.^[3] Testing occurred on gravel in Wales, on tarmac in Spain, and on snow in Sweden to prepare for the 2004 Monte Carlo Rally.^[3] The same source lists the lead driver as ex-Peugeot driver Gilles Panizzi with his brother Hervé as co-driver.^[3][6]