Background It wasn't until the launch of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI that the Japanese firm truly entered the consciousness of a wider spectrum of rally enthusiasts.

The first Evo to be officially available in the UK, the Mitsubishi Evo VI, was introduced in January 1999 and the 'standard' Evo VI GSR stole enthusiasts' hearts from the start with its 2-litre turbocharged engine producing the 'Gentlemen's Agreement' 276bhp (although it’s accepted that it was closer to 300bhp) and 275lb/ft of torque.

It featured a complex and hugely capable four-wheel drive system, mated to a 5-speed gearbox, ensuring this lightweight 1,360kg saloon was fast and exciting, with 0-60mph dispatched in 4.4 seconds and topping out at 150mph, immediately giving Subaru’s Impreza a bloody nose.

The Evolution VI received new bodywork yet again, with the most easily noticeable change being within the front bumper, where the huge fog lights were reduced in size and moved to the corners for better airflow....