500whp Evolution 8
Sleeper cars are the ambush predators of the asphalt jungle. And their creators know very well what they are trying to accomplish: sucker some extroverted car owner into a race that they don't know they're about to lose. Pride on the streets goes back to the very birth of motorsports. Just knowing that you've got power under the pedal and it all belongs to you makes one feel like an apex predator.
Ken Peak is one who subscribes to the sleeper philosophy. With a passion for cars as soon as he could drive, Ken would pursue his interest in cars all the way to Skunk2's doorstep in 2000. Working with the likes of Dave Hsu, Mike Choi and Steve "Omni" Rothenbueller, Ken gained a considerable amount of technical knowledge. This invaluable knowledge guides Ken even now, at his current employer Phoenix Turbo and PeakBoost.
With the popularity of the Mitsubishi Evolution 8 still growing, the aftermarket has stepped up to meet the demands of today's enthusiasts. Ken has worked on a number of platforms and has seen the power potential of the Evo. With the tried and true 4G63 motor under the hood, all wheel drive and plenty of tuning options available, it's no wonder the Evo has enjoyed so much success. Ken decided that he'd take advantage of his experience with the Evo, and build one for himself.
Evolution
In nature, predators evolve and adapt in order to survive. The evolutionary climb up the food chain takes a very long time. Luckily, the evolution of machines takes a lot less time. Ken's 2005 Evolution 8 had only 45 miles on it when he began to explore its potential. Wanting to see how far the stock 4G63 power plant could go, he decided to leave the long block alone, with the exception of installing ARP head studs and a new head gasket. The new head studs provide more clamping force to keep the cylinder head secured to the block, especially under higher boost pressure. The OEM pistons, rods, cylinder head and valvetrain would remain stock. Topping the cylinder head is a pair of HKS 280 degree intake and exhaust cams.
On the hot side of the head, the stock manifold and turbocharger were scrapped in favor of a PeakBoost top mount exhaust manifold. This manifold features 304 stainless steel construction with equal length runners that help to get the turbo spooled up faster. A Phoenix Turbo BBT04R ball bearing turbocharger sits atop the manifold, while a Tial 44mm wastegate regulates boost to a staggering 30psi. Spent gasses are sent through a PeakBoost prototype 3-inch stainless steel exhaust. Compressed air leaves the cool side of the BBT04R turbocharger and flows through PeakBoost intercooler piping to the PeakBoost intercooler. The air charge is then piped to the stock intake manifold and throttle body. Releasing the boost pressure when the throttle plate is closed is a Tial 50mm blow-off valve.
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