What is the Most Expensive Lancer?
The Mitsubishi Lancer is a legendary car that has been a favorite among car enthusiasts for decades. With its impressive performance, sleek design, and reliability, it’s no wonder that many car collectors and enthusiasts are eager to own one. But, among all the Lancer models, which one is the most expensive? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the most expensive Lancer and explore what makes it so valuable.
What is the Most Expensive Lancer?
The answer is the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Makinen Edition. Sold at an auction for a whopping £100,100 (approximately $121,000), this rare edition is the most expensive Lancer ever sold. But what makes it so special?
The Tommi Makinen Edition
The Tommi Makinen Edition was a limited-production model released in 2000 to celebrate the Lancer Evolution’s success in the World Rally Championship. Only 1,000 units were produced, making it a rare and highly sought-after collector’s item. The edition was named after Tommi Makinen, a Finnish rally driver who won the World Rally Championship four times with Mitsubishi.
Features and Specifications
The Tommi Makinen Edition was based on the Lancer Evolution VI GSR and featured a number of exclusive upgrades, including:
- Aerodynamic Package: A unique front bumper, side skirts, and rear diffuser designed to improve aerodynamics and reduce drag.
- Unique Paint Scheme: A special "Tommi Makinen Edition" livery, featuring a distinctive blue and white color scheme.
- Interior Upgrades: Premium interior trim, including aluminum accents and a unique dashboard design.
- Performance Upgrades: A revised engine management system, improved suspension, and high-performance tires.
Why is it So Expensive?
So, why is the Tommi Makinen Edition so expensive? Here are a few reasons:
- Rarity: With only 1,000 units produced, the Tommi Makinen Edition is a rare and highly sought-after collector’s item.
- Historical Significance: The edition was produced to celebrate the Lancer Evolution’s success in the World Rally Championship, making it a piece of automotive history.
- Condition: The condition of the car is also a major factor. The Tommi Makinen Edition sold at auction was in excellent condition, with low mileage and a meticulous maintenance record.
- Demand: The demand for rare and collectible cars is always high, and the Tommi Makinen Edition is no exception.
Other Expensive Lancer Models
While the Tommi Makinen Edition is the most expensive Lancer, there are other rare and valuable models worth mentioning:
- Lancer Evolution VIII FQ-320: A limited-production model with a 320-horsepower engine, produced in collaboration with UK tuner Prodrive.
- Lancer Evolution IX MR FQ-360: A high-performance model with a 360-horsepower engine, produced in collaboration with UK tuner Prodrive.
- Lancer Evolution X FQ-440: A limited-production model with a 440-horsepower engine, produced in collaboration with UK tuner Prodrive.
Conclusion
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Makinen Edition is the most expensive Lancer ever sold, with a price tag of £100,100 (approximately $121,000). Its rarity, historical significance, condition, and demand make it a highly sought-after collector’s item. While other Lancer models are also valuable, the Tommi Makinen Edition is truly a unique and exclusive piece of automotive history.
Table: Lancer Evolution Models
| Model | Year | Engine Power | Production Run |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Makinen Edition | 2000 | 280 horsepower | 1,000 units |
| Lancer Evolution VIII FQ-320 | 2004 | 320 horsepower | 500 units |
| Lancer Evolution IX MR FQ-360 | 2006 | 360 horsepower | 500 units |
| Lancer Evolution X FQ-440 | 2010 | 440 horsepower | 500 units |
Bullets: What Makes the Tommi Makinen Edition So Special
• Unique aerodynamic package
• Exclusive paint scheme
• Premium interior trim
• Performance upgrades
• Limited production run (1,000 units)
• Historical significance (celebrates Lancer Evolution’s success in World Rally Championship)
• Condition (excellent condition with low mileage and meticulous maintenance record)
• Demand (high demand from collectors and enthusiasts)