Turbocharged All-Wheel Drive Terror: 30k-Mile 1991 Mitsubishi 3000 GT VR4 5-Speed

Engineered from the sleekly styled HSR show and development car, Mitsubishi’s futuristic 3000GT debuted in 1990 for the ‘91 model year and delivered outstanding performance in GT and SL touring forms. For exotic car fanatics, the 3000GT VR4 took performance to a whole other level with its twin-turbocharged and intercooled 3.0L DOHC V6 engine and all-wheel drive traction. While imported to North America as a Mitsubishi model, the car was slightly restyled and concurrently offered as the Dodge Stealth R/T. Production continued through 1999 and now, as when new, the 3000GT VR4 and Stealth R/T continue to be renowned for their all-around performance credentials, totally comparable or better than Europe’s vaunted Sports/GT and Supercar offerings. Among them were 5-second 0-60 mph acceleration and 13.8-second quarter-mile times, plus limpet-like road holding. Add in remarkably good reliability and durability consistent with Mitsubishi’s tireless engineering, development, and assembly practices, and you have a performance car worthy of the most demanding drivers and enthusiasts. Motor Trend magazine testers agreed, naming the 3000GT VR4 its 1991 ‘Import Car of the Year’.

Fresh to market with only 30k miles of use, this first-year 3000GT VR4 is a highly maintained example accompanied by the factory issued books/manuals and a stack of receipts confirming the care it has received. Crucially, the factory-specified 50k-mile major service was performed under the current ownership at 26k miles, including a new timing belt, spark plugs, water pump, and a new accessory-drive belt and tensioner, while the last oil change was just 300 miles ago. Options and amenities are numerous, which includes A/C that is reported to still blow cold. The White Pearl paint glimmers nicely, and the leather upholstery remains pleasingly clean and supple. All in all, this 3000GT VR4 looks like a high-quality example with plenty of enjoyment in its future.