The aftermarket is currently abuzz with Evo Lancer tuning. Hot on the heels
of our article on ChipTorque’s flash tuning for Evos (see Flash Enhanced Evo
]) we give you the power-up packages offered by Motorsport Logic.
Motorsport Logic is a Queensland-based company which is focused on developing
Evos and Impreza WRXs/STis and is currently establishing a dealership network
around Australia.
So what’s on offer?
Well, there are two approaches to Evo modification...
The Flash Approach
Nick Zervos, the head of Motorsport Logic, envisages that most Evo owners
will opt for the newly released Power Enhancement Package which uses a flash
tune to retain all factory ECU niceties. The in-house developed Tune Logic
software is similar to other flash tuning systems in that the ECU is
reprogrammed via the OBDII port. Tuning is performed on a flash-and-test basis -
not in real-time. However, in comparison to say EcuTeK, the Tune Logic system
accesses different segments of the ECU and there are no issues associated with
key codes or immobilisers. Unlike some other systems, the retune is also
invisible to the Mitsubishi servicing tool. There is only one map – there’s no
dual map function.
The new flash tuning systems offers all the tuning flexibility you’d expect –
base adjustment of fuel and ignition, MIVEC variable cam timing, knock
correction, rev and speed limit, MAF calibration and launch rev limit. All
information is viewed via laptop in legible word and numeric text – not
indecipherable hex code.
The entry-level Evo upgrade comprises the ECU reflash plus the addition of a
Motorsport Logic developed exhaust system. The new system is 3 inch mandrel bent
in stainless steel from the back of the turbo. A cat converter, centre resonator
and custom rear muffler keep noise levels hushed.
Equipped with the package of reflash and exhaust you can expect a gain of
around 45 percent. As seen in this graph, the standard Evo 9 makes around 151kW
at the wheels (though some make a few kW more) and the enhanced version pushes
219kW. Note that this is achieved with only a modest boost increase and
conservative air-fuel ratio and ignition timing settings. In the case of Evo 8s
(non MIVEC) the standard output is around 138 – 140kW at the wheels and the
upgrade package delivers about the same 45 percent gain – just over 200kW at the
wheels. Note that the Evo 8 and 9 have different gearing and this has some
effect on measured power at the wheels.
Nick sees this upgrade being the most popular upgrade package for Evo owners
that want substantially more power without making irreversible modifications.
The price is also appealing given the 45 percent power gain – you’ll pay just
AUD$3625 fitted and tuned. That’s very attractive. Please note that the
Power Enhancement Package is currently available for Australian-delivered Evo
8-9 only.
A Stage Two upgrade is currently being developed. It is expected Stage Two
will use the same exhaust as found in the entry-level upgrade but receive a
high-flow fuel pump, new airbox and a wastegate modification to give more boost
(about 20 psi). Power will be around 230kW at all fours and an upgrade clutch
system will be required. Expect pricing in the vicinity of AUD$5900.
The MoTec Approach
The alternative route – and the one we tested – uses a MoTeC M800
programmable ECU. In this instance, the factory ECU is eliminated and the MoTeC
takes control of fuel, ignition, boost control and cam control. There is no
knock input. Nick explains that the MoTeC option is reserved for people who want
to develop the car with a bigger turbo and some engine internals and might want
to data log at the racetrack
We had the opportunity to drive the MoTeC-equipped Evo 9 owned by Nick and,
at the time, it had a very similar set-up to what’s envisaged for the Stage Two
flash upgrade. Boost pressure had been lifted to 21 psi and an upgrade fuel pump
had been added to ensure safe mixtures when making 230kW at the wheels. The
standard airflow meter was retained but Nick says he prefers to run a 3 Bar MAP
sensor – the standard airflow meter signal typically reaches its limit at 300kW
at the wheels.
On the road, the MoTeC’d Evo 9 offers excellent throttle response and
drivability and torque are very smooth – it’s one of those set-ups that’s
deceptively quick. On the other hand it was noticeable that the idle was
slightly higher than factory and Nick explains that’s a characteristic that
comes with trying to maintain idle when AC is switched on, etc. He says the
MoTeC equipped engines also take slightly longer to start than the factory
system – and that’s another reason why he suggests flash tuning for most road
car upgrades.
Although available as a plug-in to the Evo loom, it’s inevitable the MoTeC
approach costs more than a reflash. As driven (with exhaust and upgrade fuel
pump) you’re looking at AUD$6900, as tuned by Advanced Performance Centre (APC).
So what to make of all this?
Well, although we haven’t yet tested it, we reckon the bang-for-buck
delivered by the AUD$3625 Stage One Power Enhancement Package is tough to beat.
If you’re likely to keep the car in a relatively mild tune, this is certainly
the way to go. But if you’re looking at accommodating substantial mods further
down the track, the MoTeC approach is an attractive option.
Contact:
Motorsport Logic/Advanced Performance Centre +61 7 3341 7223
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