Mitsubishi Evo

In recognition of this, Mitsubishi has named a limited-edition version of the car after its star rally driver. The Lancer Evo VI Tommi Makinen Edition boasts 0-60mph acceleration in only 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 150mph. With vibrant red paint, white wheels and lively graphics, the Makinen is instantly distinguished from the standard Evo VI. Inside are black instruments with red lettering to match the stitching on the Momo steering wheel and gearlever gaiter. And the Recaro bucket seats are emblazoned with Makinen's name.

Alterations don't stop there. Performance has been enhanced with a more efficient titanium turbo-charger, improving both mid-range torque and throttle response.

Although the visual impact of the car should not be underestimated, its not until you head for the open road that the changes really tell. The day-glo paint scheme gets heads swivelling, but it's the massive performance that ensures even the gentlest of drives turns into the road equivalent of a special stage. The rally-derived suspension is rock solid, while body roll is almost non-existent. Undulating tarmac ensures you only touch the seat once a mile, but the Makinen keeps a vice-like hold on the road. Grip is simply enormous, and in the real world will never be breached.

But out on the test track the car is free to display a character more in keeping with its rally heritage. Its huge power means 100mph plus is rarely more than a squirt of the throttle away, and a driver can move through the short ratio gearbox with astonishing speed. Oversteer is available on demand, but the car maintains superb poise and balance whatever attitude it adopts. The steering is pin-sharp, and the brakes, too, are nothing short of astonishing, although that is less of a surprise when you discover the massive Brembo discs and calipers barely fit inside the wheels.

Performance like this may seem cheap, given the ί¿½33,000 price tag, but other costs are very high. Don't forget to budget for 4,000-mile service intervals, 14mpg average and sky-high insurance premiums.

However, Mitsubishi has extended its approved Evo VI dealer network, taking some of the frustration out of ownership. There has never been a better time to buy an Evo VI - and the Makinen model takes the idea of living out your rally fantasies that one step further.

There can be few better ways of celebrating a record-breaking run of world rally championship achievement than with Mitsubishi's ί¿½33,000 Lancer Evo VI Tommi Makinen Edition. Pound for pound, it offers unrivalled performance. Handling is a driving enthusiasts' delight, and, although the suspension proves almost uncomfortably firm, few cars can match the Evo VI's cross-country pace.

But ownership brings responsibility, as the engine and gearbox need servicing on an almost monthly basis and fuel economy is appallingly poor. For those lucky few to whom this means nothing, however, buying one of the most exciting cars ever produced is a must.

At a glance

* Special edition, rally-bred Evo VI priced at ί¿½33,000

* 280bhp engine provides 0-60mph in 4.7 seconds and a 150mph top speed

* Supercar-humbling grip and handling ability

* Available now through Mitsubishi dealers