How To Build a Lancer Box Race Car

The Mitsubishi Lancer "Box Type" (A172) is a cult classic, revered for its lightweight chassis and rear-wheel-drive layout. While it originally came with the humble Saturn or Sirius engines, transforming it into the monster seen in the image requires transplanting the heart of a legend: the Mitsubishi 4G63 engine.

Whether you source a naturally aspirated version or the turbocharged powerhouse from an Evolution, here is how you build a Box Type track weapon.

1. The Heart Transplant: 4G63 Integration

The most critical hurdle is orientation. The 4G63 is typically transverse (front-wheel drive) in Evos. To put it in a Box Type, you must mount it longitudinally.

• Sourcing: Look for a 4G63T from an Evo 1–3 or a VR-4 for easier compatibility.

• The Transmission: Since the Lancer is RWD, you’ll need a RWD gearbox. Popular choices include the wide-ratio "KM132" from a Starion or custom bellhousing adapters for Toyota W58 or Nissan SR20 transmissions.

• Mounting: Custom engine mounts and a modified crossmember are required to set the engine back as far as possible for better weight distribution.

2. Forced Induction and Cooling

To get race car performance, a turbo and large front-mount intercooler (FMIC) is essential.

• Turbo Setup: A modern ball-bearing turbocharger paired with a custom tubular manifold will provide the response needed for track exits.

• Thermal Management: The Box Type engine bay is tight. You will need a high-capacity aluminum radiator and electric fans. Note the vented hood in the image; cutting vents is a functional necessity to evacuate heat from the turbo hot side.

3. Widebody and Aerodynamics

The aggressive stance isn't just for show.

• Fender Flares: To fit wider, sticker tires (like the Yokohama Advan setup shown), you must install bolt-on over-fenders. This allows for a wider track width, significantly increasing mechanical grip.

• Downforce: The large rear GT wing and front splitter with canards are vital for high-speed stability. These must be chassis-mounted, not just bolted to the bodywork, to withstand the air pressure at 150+ km/h.

4. Suspension and Footwork

A stock Lancer feels like a boat on the track. You need to modernize the geometry.

• Coilovers: Convert the front struts to adjustable coilovers. For the rear, since the Box Type uses a live axle with leaf springs or 4-link (depending on the specific market model), a conversion to a 4-link setup with a Panhard rod is recommended for precision.

• Brakes: The stock drums must go. Retrofit disc brakes from an Evo or a Nissan S-Chassis to handle the 4G63’s power.

5. Safety and Interior

Finally, a race car is only as good as its safety rating.

• Roll Cage: A multi-point roll cage stiffens the aging chassis and protects the driver.

• The Cockpit: Strip the interior to save weight. Install a fixed-back racing seat and a deep-dish steering wheel to improve the ergonomic connection between the driver and the machine.

Building a 4G63-powered Box Type is a labor of love that bridges 80s aesthetics with 90s rally-bred power. It results in a car that is light, tail-happy, and capable of shaming modern sports cars on the circuit.