Will OEM Evo VIII (2003-05 non-MR) 5-speed manual transaxle (W5M51) fit a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX (2006)?
Added · Updated
Short answer: Yes, with extra parts or work Limited
Verdict:Fits with mods Limited confidence (1 of 3) · 3 sources
Yes, with extra parts or work: Fits with extra parts, per one retailer: putting a 5-speed into a 6-speed MR needs the 5-speed shifter assembly, shifter cables, cable bracket and 5-speed wiring harness; the rear transmission mount bracket was changed for 2005 to suit both.
| Part | OEM Evo VIII (2003-05 non-MR) 5-speed manual transaxle (W5M51) |
|---|---|
| Part comes from | Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII (2003-2005) |
| Vehicle | Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX (2006) |
| Years | 2006 |
| Trim / condition | MR (6-speed cars) |
| Verdict | Fits with mods Fits with extra parts or work |
| Confidence | Limited 1 of 3 — Forum, Reddit or anecdotal report, or ambiguous/partial detail. Treat as a lead to research. |
| Last verified | 2026-10-26 (date the cited sources were last read) |
Details
Fits with extra parts, per one retailer: putting a 5-speed into a 6-speed MR needs the 5-speed shifter assembly, shifter cables, cable bracket and 5-speed wiring harness; the rear transmission mount bracket was changed for 2005 to suit both. The retailer calls the 6-speed considerably weaker than the 5-speed. VIII 5-speed ratios differ from the IX's (2nd to 5th: VIII 1.950/1.407/1.031/0.720, IX 1.950/1.444/1.096/0.761); the VIII ratios match the 2003 manual. A IX 5-speed avoids the ratio change.
Specs
- ratios 2003: 2.928/1.950/1.407/1.031/0.720
- final drive 2003: 4.529
Related known issues
- The MR's 6-speed is weaker than the 5-speed under high power
- 5-speed gearbox grinds as the brass synchro rings wear
Related build entries
More for this car
- All Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX (2006) fitment answers · CT9A (Evolution IX) common problems
- Newsletter archive: past issues with every new and corrected entry
Sources
- USDM EVO 8/9 Year To Year Changes — Wunderladen Racing (vendor article; read 2026-10-26; full page read)5-speed into 6-speed car: shifter, cables, bracket, harness; 6-speed considerably weaker; E8/E9 ratios.
- 2003 Lancer Evolution service manual, group 22A: manual transaxle — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (mfr spec; read 2026-10-26; full page read)2003 W5M51: 2.928/1.950/1.407/1.031/0.720, final 4.529.
- 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX specifications (MMNA spec sheet) — Mitsubishi Motors North America (hosted by The Auto Channel) (mfr spec; read 2026-10-26; full page read)2006 5-speed: 2.785/1.950/1.444/1.096/0.761; MR 6-speed.
Summaries are in our own words. Fitment is not guaranteed — disclaimer.
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