SOTW: Mitsubishi Galant GTI 16v

Shed buys in to Mitsubishi's rallying roots

In the late Eighties the Japanese developed a small fixation with four-wheel-steer, the Mazda MX-6 and Honda Prelude both had it, and so too did Mitsubishi’s sixth generation Galant. The understated family saloon had a proud history of being a reliable, but slightly boring, Japanese runabout, so as it neared its 20^th birthday Mitsubishi decided to inject a bit of spice into the Galant.

Despite having proved a very popular car, and even scooping the prestigious title of ‘Japanese Car of the Year’ in 1987, it was the hot VR4 version that really caught people’s attention as it heralded Mitsubishi’s entry into Group A rallying. Based

on the 205bhp Galant VR4, the Group A rally car was followed by a Group N version.

Slowly but surely the Galant VR4 developed into a more impressive package. The Japanese manufacturer had no problem producing the 5000 production cars needed for rally homologation, and after a few outings the VR4 found its feet and before long Mitsubishi began to dominate the Group N rally category. The Galant had secured Mitsubishi a place at the top table of rallying.

Sadly Shed’s budget doesn’t stretch to a decent example of the VR4, however, the less powerful, naturally aspirated GTI 16v version is well within budget.

The sixth generation Galant saw the introduction of four-wheel-steer to accompany the four-wheel-drive system and all round ABS. The GTI 16v proved very popular and German tuners AMG even went to work on a few examples to increase the car’s power output to 170bhp and add a new, more aggressive bodykit to bulk up the standard car’s extremely understated looks.

This particular Galant GTI 16v appears to be in fine shape, with a relatively low number of miles on the clock considering its 20-year age. The 2.0-litre engine is known for its strength, and the current owner’s one-time project of bumping the power up to the 300bhp mark is within the engine’s tolerance levels.

Ebay Ad reads:

1989 Mitsubishi Galant GTI 16V £800

Up for grabs is a an Automotive bargain and quite a rare car! These Mitsubishi Galant GTi's are very understated, Having both 4 wheel drive and 4 wheel steering they have unbelievable road holding and traction combined with Japanese reliability.

I brought this car 2 years ago as a project vehicle. Mechanically they are the same as the Turbo VR4 version which is a Evo by any other name, the intension was to turbo charge this one and have a 300bhp Subaru killer!! Sadly I do not have the time and honestly the car is in such good condition I felt it was better to let someone else have the chance to enjoy one of these cars. During all the snow we had in February this car out performed many large 4 wheel drives in the snow! ploughing through 1 foot of virgin snow, up and down roads with many abandoned cars!

This vehicle has only covered 74545 miles from new, it has had a new cam belt,oil and filter,new battery, new alternator, new wiper blades and a MOT just 1 month ago. It starts every time with just 1 turn of the key, all of the electrics work and will return 35mpg when required. It has the factory upgrade alloy wheels and wooden dash trim, all very 80's chic! I can tax the vehicle for anyone to just drive away but you will be charged the standard rate on top of the auction price.

The bad bits: It has a scratch on the front bumper (pictured) already on the car when I purchased it. A small blemish on 1 wheel arch and some chav number plates!

I would like a deposit by Paypal and cash on collection. Collection with in 5 days.

Please feel free to call and I will be happy to discuss any of the finer points of this classic Japanese sports sedan! £800 buy it now.