Driving the Evo VI 1/2 (6.5) Part 2

When I took the keys from my friend on that crisp Sunday morning, I knew that an exciting chapter in my automotive experience was about to be written.
Keys in hand, I did a good job of hiding my quickening heart rate as I moved towards the driver’s seat. One of the first things you notice when you peer into an Evo is the race-type bucket seats. When you sit, it is a snug fit. The seat hugs you, it ‘tucks you in’, it is supportive, firm but comfortable. I started the car, one of only 2500 built by Mitsubishi. As the notorious 4G63 settled into a docile purr, I allowed the moment to have its impact on my soul. Eager but focused, I left my friends gateway rather slowly, conscious of his eyes watching his ‘baby’ leave.
Renaldo’s car is equipped with a complete roll cage. Getting in and out (of the car) takes a little getting used to. I had to employ contortionist skills when I stopped at the gas station! VPower onboard, I headed to one of my favorite sections of roadway.

22 lbs of boost

Whenever I jump into a performance car I do not waste much time. I want all the hair-raising thrills that are up for grabs! I quickly introduce myself to the car, with controlled but deliberate demands from the motor and the transmission, conveyed by a respectful right foot.
I was told, but until you experience it, you are in no position to describe it. In first gear, pedal to the floor, the boost builds quicker than a pickpocket fleeing an angry mob. 22 lbs of boost will grab your attention. The titanium-turbine turbo generates hurricane force winds, the intercooler plumbing assists with air delivery, the thirsty injectors supply the fuel and a bonfire ensues within the 1997cc motor, which when converted to wheel horsepower through rally proven differentials, creates a white missile, devouring space and time. As I rocket to the next corner, I lift briefly as I summon the next gear and HKS intervenes.

HKS Super Sequential Blow-off Valve

The HKS Super Sequential blow-off valve pierces the atmosphere with inspirational sounds -   Wwhhoppsshhee! A unique expression, one which shouts dominant performance. If speed had a sound this would be it. Blow-off valve dispensed with, up-shift and the car responds. The boost builds incessantly and the grin appears out of nowhere. The one which starts from your right ear and sweeps your face until it comes to rest at your left ear – that grin! With gears to spare, I neither up-shift nor down-shift as I approach the next corner. I check my approach speed, positioned the car and waited. The corner came and left as quickly as it entered the landscape – without incident. The 6.5 corners without effort, no drama, no body roll, instead, a display of stability which is difficult to compare with other cars because it sits alone at the top of the stability chart. After a few minutes of indulging in an orgy of speed and superior handling, I excused myself from the from the adrenalin zone to reflect on what was happening.

Nb. Part 3 tomorrow (final segment)

Cecil Munroe Gleaner On-Line Writer