Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX 8th Gen

The Lancer Evolution IX, sold in North America for just the 2006 model year, represents the pinnacle of the celebrated CT9A platform. It was the first and only Evo to pair the legendary 4G63T inline-4 engine with MIVEC variable valve timing, improving turbo spool and broadening the powerband. Visual changes from the Evo VIII included a revised front bumper for better cooling and a new rear bumper with a diffuser, subtly refining the car's aggressive look.

Collectors prize the Evo IX for being the last and most technologically advanced model to use the iron-block 4G63, an engine with decades of rally-proven performance. It's often considered the sweet spot in the Evo lineage, retaining the raw, analog driving experience of its predecessors while benefiting from key refinements. The MR trim, with its 6-speed manual, Bilstein suspension, and aluminum roof, is the most sought-after variant, followed by the late-production SE (Special Edition) models with their unique interior and BBS wheels.

The market for the Evo IX is strong and highly stratified by condition, mileage, and originality. While heavily modified or high-mileage examples can be found for less, the average price sits around $40,000. Exceptional, low-mileage examples, particularly in MR or SE trim, have become true collector's items, with prices soaring past $100,000 for the best cars.

Prices range from $13,500 for project cars to over $161,000 for pristine, low-mileage collector examples.