Overview

If you want your Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 7/8/9 6-speed to hit harder out of every corner and off the line, the Tomioka Racing 5.09 Final Drive Gear Set is the upgrade to look at. By moving to a shorter 5.09 final drive ratio, this kit significantly increases wheel torque and improves how quickly the car accelerates through each gear.

This setup is aimed squarely at drivers who prioritize acceleration and response over low cruising RPM – drag racers, autocross competitors, time attack cars, and aggressive street builds that live in the powerband.

Performance Benefits

• Maximum acceleration: Shorter 5.09 final drive increases effective wheel torque, helping the Evo leap out of the hole and pull harder through the rev range.
• Stronger mid-range punch: Tightens up the spacing between vehicle speeds in each gear, keeping the engine in its most effective powerband.
• More responsive 6-speed: Makes the factory 6-speed feel more alive, especially on high-grip tires and high-power setups.
• Ideal for competition use: Suited for drag racing, autocross, and short to medium-length circuits where acceleration matters more than relaxed highway cruising.

Construction & Quality

Like other Tomioka Racing drivetrain components, the 5.09 final drive gear set is manufactured by a specialist gear factory using forged performance steel and precise machining. The gears are built to withstand the on/off throttle shock loads and rapid shifts that come with hard use.

• Forged gear construction: High-strength ring gear and output shaft engineered for durability on high-horsepower Evo builds.
• Precision-machined tooth profile: Ensures proper contact pattern, efficient power transfer, and smoother operation when set up correctly.
• OEM-style fitment: Designed as a direct replacement for the factory final drive in Evo 7/8/9 6-speed transmissions.

Fitment & Specifications

• Vehicle: Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII / VIII / IX
• Transmission: 6-speed manual only (does not fit 5-speed)
• Final Drive Ratio: 5.09
• Use Case: Drag racing, autocross, time attack, and aggressive street/track driving
• Kit Includes: Center ring gear and output shaft

Street Manners & Considerations

Because the 5.09 final drive is significantly shorter than stock, you can expect higher RPM at a given road speed compared to the OEM 6-speed final drive. That is the trade-off for the increase in acceleration and responsiveness. For primarily highway-driven cars, the 4.00 or milder ratios may be more suitable. For performance-focused builds, the 5.09 ratio is a proven way to make the car feel much more aggressive.

Installation Notes

As with any final drive swap, professional installation is highly recommended. Correct setup of gear backlash, bearing preload, and tooth contact pattern is essential to avoid noise and premature wear. This kit is engineered as a bolt-in replacement for the factory Evo 7/8/9 6-speed final drive when installed by an experienced transmission builder.

For a complete drivetrain package, pair the 5.09 final drive with an upgraded limited slip differential, high-performance clutch, and strengthened axles. This combination allows Evo owners to fully exploit the extra acceleration and traction unlocked by the shorter final drive ratio.