The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII (2003, 2004, 2005) remains one of the most iconic AWD performance cars ever produced. Known for its turbocharged 4G63 engine, rally-inspired drivetrain, and razor-sharp handling, the Evo 8 responds exceptionally well to properly sized forged wheels that can handle aggressive driving, track use, and high lateral loads.

This build showcases a Blue Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 8 running a square 17x9 wheel and tire setup using WELD Racing RT-S S71 forged wheels in a Gloss Black Milled finish, wrapped in Toyo Proxes R888R 255/40R17 tires on all four corners.

This configuration is one of the most proven setups for Evo 8 owners seeking balanced handling, maximum grip, and motorsport-grade durability.

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Complete Wheel & Tire Specs — Evo 8 Square Setup.

Running the same wheel and tire size front and rear is extremely common on Evo platforms due to their AWD layout and front-end grip requirements.

Front Wheel & Tire Fitment.

• Wheel: WELD Racing RT-S S71

• Diameter / Width: 17x9

• Finish: Gloss Black Milled

• Tire: Toyo Proxes R888R

• Tire Size: 255/40R17

Rear Wheel & Tire Fitment.

• Wheel: WELD Racing RT-S S71

• Diameter / Width: 17x9

• Finish: Gloss Black Milled

• Tire: Toyo Proxes R888R

• Tire Size: 255/40R17

This square 17x9 setup works extremely well on 2003–2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII models when paired with performance-oriented alignment and suspension components.

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Why 17x9 Wheels Are Ideal for the Mitsubishi Evo 8 (2003–2005)?

The Evo 8 chassis benefits significantly from wider wheels compared to factory sizing. A 17x9 wheel allows Evo owners to run wider, more capable tires without excessive sidewall stretch or compromised steering response.

Key advantages of 17x9 wheels on an Evo 8 include:

• Increased front-end grip during corner entry

• Improved mid-corner stability

• Better power delivery from the AWD system

• Ability to run 255-width performance tires correctly

• Reduced understeer compared to narrower setups

For track days, time attack, and aggressive street driving, 17x9 is widely considered a “sweet spot” for Evo 8 wheel fitment.

Check them out here: https://dragracingwheels.com/weld-racing-rt-s-17x9-5x4-5-bp-6-2in-bs-31-offset-gloss-black-milled-drag-wheel-high-pad-71hb7090a62a/

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Why the WELD Racing RT-S S71 Is a Strong Choice for Evo 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 Platforms?

Although best known in drag racing circles, the WELD Racing RT-S S71 has become increasingly popular among AWD performance enthusiasts due to its forged construction and strength.

WELD S71 Performance Benefits.

• Forged aluminum construction for high strength-to-weight ratio

• Excellent load rating suitable for AWD platforms

• Proven durability under track and competition conditions

• Clean, motorsport-inspired multi-spoke design

• Gloss Black Milled finish complements Evo body lines without looking flashy

For Evo owners pushing their cars hard, wheel strength and reliability matter just as much as weight — and the S71 delivers on both.

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Toyo Proxes R888R 255/40R17 — Proven Evo Track Tire.

The Toyo Proxes R888R is a staple among Mitsubishi Evo owners who want predictable, high-grip performance.

Why 255/40R17 R888R tires with a 17x9 Evo setup:

• Optimal tread width for a 9-inch wheel

• Stiff sidewalls for responsive steering

• High heat tolerance for track sessions

• Consistent grip during aggressive driving

Snag these tires here: https://dragracingwheels.com/toyo-proxes-r888r-dot-competition-tire-255-40zr17-98w-109530/

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Square vs Staggered Setup on an Evo 8 — Why Square Wins?

Unlike many RWD platforms, the Evo 8 benefits heavily from a square wheel setup.

Advantages include:

• Neutral handling balance

• Improved front grip under load

• Ability to rotate tires front to rear

• Consistent braking and acceleration behavior

• Simpler tire replacement and alignment tuning

For Evo 6, Evo 7, Evo 8 and Evo 9 builds focused on performance rather than aesthetics, square setups remain the preferred choice.

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Order the WELD Racing S71 17x9 Wheels Used on This Evo 8!

The exact WELD Racing RT-S S71 17x9 Gloss Black Milled wheel used on this Mitsubishi Evo 8 can be ordered below:

https://dragracingwheels.com/weld-racing-rt-s-17x9-5x4-5-bp-6-2in-bs-31-offset-gloss-black-milled-drag-wheel-high-pad-71hb7090a62a/

This product page includes bolt pattern, backspacing, offset, and availability details specific to this wheel.

If you’re building a full set and have questions about brake clearance, offsets, or alignment considerations, our team can assist before ordering.

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More Wheels for Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 6, 7, 8, 9 (1999–2007).

Looking for additional wheel options for your Lancer Evo builds?

We maintain a dedicated category for:

• Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI

• Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII

• Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII

• Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX

https://dragracingwheels.com/lancer-evolution-evo-6-7-8-9/

This category includes performance-focused wheels that work for street, track, and competition use, with fitments tailored to Evo platforms.

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Fitment Support from DragRacingWheels.com.

Not every Evo is built the same. Suspension setup, camber settings, ride height, and intended use all affect wheel fitment.

If you’re unsure whether the WELD S71 17x9 setup is right for your Evo 8, our team is happy to help.

Phone: 1-833-287-6088
Email: Sales@DragRacingWheels.com

We regularly assist customers with Evo wheel fitment questions and can confirm compatibility before you order.