Mitsubishi Sports Car: A Guide to Legendary Models and Buying Tips for 2025

Mitsubishi Motors began in 1917, building trucks in Japan. They didn’t chase speed until the 1960s, when the Colt F2000 hit racetracks. By the 1980s, turbo engines changed everything. The 1990s were their golden era, with cars like the Mitsubishi 3000GT and Evo stealing the show. These weren’t just cars—they were rally champs and street legends.

Contents

The Best Mitsubishi Sports Cars to Know How Mitsubishi Sports Cars Drive Buying a Mitsubishi Sports Car in 2025 Modding Your Mitsubishi Sports Car Why Mitsubishi Paused Sports Cars Stories from Real Owners Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)In Conclusion References

Mitsubishi’s rally record is unreal: 37 World Rally Championship wins from 1974 to 1999. Their tech, like all-wheel drive and active aerodynamics, made rivals jealous. The Evo, launched in 1992, sold half a million units globally over 10 generations. The Eclipse, born in 1989, became a pop-culture star. The history of Mitsubishi sports cars is about pushing limits—think turbocharged engines and razor-sharp handling.

In 2025, Mitsubishi focuses on SUVs like the Outlander, but fans dream of a sports car comeback. Rumors hint at an electric Evo or Eclipse by 2030. For now, Mitsubishi performance cars rule the used market. Their 4G63 engine, found in Evos, can last a million miles with love. That’s why high-performance car brands like Mitsubishi still spark joy.

The Best Mitsubishi Sports Cars to Know

Mitsubishi built some unforgettable rides. Here’s a look at their top Mitsubishi sports car models, with details to help you pick the right one.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution: The Rally Legend

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution—or Evo—is Mitsubishi’s crown jewel. Born in 1992 for the World Rally Championship, it ran through 10 versions until 2016. Its 4G63 turbo engine and all-wheel drive made it a beast on any road.

Engine: 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder, 291 horsepower, 300 lb-ft torque.
0-60 mph: 4.5 seconds.
Top speed: 155 mph.
Why it’s cool: Active yaw control grips corners like magic.

The Evo’s raw power and rally roots make it a fan favorite. Used prices range from $15,000 to $50,000, but special editions like the Evo VI Tommi Mäkinen can hit $100,000 at auctions. I talked to an Evo owner last year who said his 2005 model, with 150,000 miles, still feels like new. Are Mitsubishi sports cars reliable? With regular oil changes, Evos can hit 200,000 miles.

Mitsubishi racing cars don’t get better than this. The Evo won four WRC titles from 1996 to 1999. It’s the car for anyone craving rally vibes.

Mitsubishi Eclipse: The Movie Star Coupe

The Mitsubishi Eclipse sports car roared into fame from 1990 to 2012. You’ve probably seen it in “The Fast and the Furious,” with its neon-green paint and turbo kick. Built with Chrysler (called DSM), it blended style and speed.

Engine: 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder, 210 horsepower, 214 lb-ft.
0-60 mph: 6.5 seconds.
Top speed: 150 mph.
Why it’s cool: AWD option for extra grip.

Mitsubishi coupe models like the Eclipse are perfect for modders. You can find used ones for $5,000 to $20,000. Where to buy a Mitsubishi Eclipse sports car? Check sites like CarGurus or local dealers. It’s a great pick for young drivers on a budget

A friend of mine bought a 1997 Eclipse GSX for $8,000. He added a $1,500 turbo kit, and now it’s a street rocket. Affordable sports cars don’t get much better.

Mitsubishi 3000GT: The High-Tech Supercar

The Mitsubishi 3000GT, known as the Mitsubishi GTO in Japan, hit roads in 1990. It was a tech-packed supercar with twin turbos and all-wheel drive, ready to take on Ferraris.

Engine: 3.0L twin-turbo V6, 300-320 horsepower, 332 lb-ft.
0-60 mph: 5.5 seconds.
Top speed: 155 mph (limited).
Why it’s cool: Pop-up headlights and active aero wings.

Mitsubishi 3000GT engine specs and features include adjustable suspension. Mitsubishi GTO horsepower and performance review? The VR-4 trim’s 320 horsepower was a 90s game-changer. Used prices now: $20,000 to $60,000. Collectors love its rarity.

I saw a 3000GT VR-4 at a car show last summer—shiny red, with those iconic headlights. It felt like a time machine.

Mitsubishi Starion: The 80s Turbo Classic

The Starion (1982-1990) was Mitsubishi’s first turbo Mitsubishi sports car. Its boxy shape and pop-up lights scream retro cool.

Engine: 2.6L turbo 4-cylinder, 145-205 horsepower.
0-60 mph: 7 seconds.
Top speed: 140 mph.
Why it’s cool: Widebody kit for race vibes.

Best Mitsubishi sports cars include the Starion for its IMSA race wins. You can grab one for $8,000 to $15,000. It’s perfect for retro fans on a budget.

Mitsubishi FTO: The Japan-Only Gem

The FTO (1994-2000) was a sleek, front-wheel-drive coupe sold only in Japan. It’s a rare find now.

Engine: 2.0L V6, 177-197 horsepower.
0-60 mph: 7.3 seconds.
Top speed: 135 mph.
Why it’s cool: Active yaw for sharp turns.

Mitsubishi coupe models like the FTO cost $10,000 to $25,000 as imports. Top Mitsubishi performance cars of all time give it props for style.

How Mitsubishi Sports Cars Drive

Mitsubishi sports car models are built for fun. Turbocharged Mitsubishi engines like the 4G63 can hit 500+ horsepower with tuning. All-wheel drive (AWD) Mitsubishi systems in Evos and 3000GT make corners a breeze.

Evo X: 4.5 seconds to 60 mph, 0.95g on skidpad.
Eclipse: 6.5 seconds, smooth for daily drives.
3000GT: 5.5 seconds, 320 horsepower in VR-4.

Speed and handling performance? Evos run 13.8-second quarter-miles. Mitsubishi racing cars used tech like active yaw to dominate rallies. The 3000GT’s all-wheel steering was futuristic in the 90s.

Mitsubishi motors lineup balanced power and innovation. A buddy of mine says his Evo X feels “glued to the road” on twisty backroads.

Buying a Mitsubishi Sports Car in 2025

How much does a Mitsubishi sports car cost in 2025? Used prices depend on the model:

Evo: $20,000-$80,000.
Eclipse: $5,000-$15,000.
3000GT: $25,000-$60,000.

Best used Mitsubishi sports cars under $20,000? Go for an Eclipse or Starion. Cheapest Mitsubishi sports car models include the Mirage Sport ($15,000 new), but it’s not a true sports car.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution vs Subaru WRX comparison: The Evo’s AWD feels sharper, with 291 horsepower vs. the WRX’s 271. The WRX is lighter, though, so it’s a close race.

Used Mitsubishi sports car for sale: In Pakistan, PakWheels lists over 100 options. In the US, try Autotrader or Cars.com. The official Mitsubishi sports car website doesn’t list¹ new sports cars, but dealers have used ones.

Maintenance cost of Mitsubishi sports cars: Expect $500-$1,000 a year. Turbo repairs can hit $2,000. Are Mitsubishi sports cars reliable? Owners give them 4.5/5 on Consumer Reports with regular care.

Tips for Buying:

Look for rust: Evos can rust under the frame.
Get it checked: A mechanic can spot issues.
Join car clubs: Mitsubishi forums share cheap parts.
Drive it first: Feel the turbo’s kick.
Negotiate: Used prices often drop 10%.

I know a guy who bought a 2004 Evo VIII for $16,000 after haggling. It had 130,000 miles but ran smooth after a tune-up.

Modding Your Mitsubishi Sports Car

Car modification and tuning is where Mitsubishi sports car models shine. Tuning hobbyists love the Evo’s 4G63 engine—it can hit 1,000 horsepower with a $5,000 turbo kit. Affordable sports cars like the Eclipse take $1,000 in mods—like exhausts or intakes—for 20 extra horsepower.

JDM performance vehicles like the 3000GT love coilovers for better handling. A local tuner I met spent $3,000 on his Eclipse’s suspension and wheels, dropping its 0-60 to 6 seconds.

Sports car enthusiasts can join EvoM or DSMtuners for mod tips. Parts are easy to find, but labor can add up. Check eBay Motors for deals.

A white Lancer Evo and a silver Eclipse are modified in a garage, featuring a large turbo, performance wheels, and an informational banner about Evo, Eclipse, and 3000GT tuning tips.

Why Mitsubishi Paused Sports Cars

Why Mitsubishi stopped making the Lancer Evolution: By 2016, sports cars weren’t selling enough. Mitsubishi shifted to EVs and SUVs like the Outlander to stay profitable. But fans are loud—online petitions for an Evo revival have 50,000 signatures.

The Mitsubishi Mirage sports edition exists, but it’s more economy than sport. The Eclipse Cross SUV borrows the Eclipse name for sporty vibes. Buy Mitsubishi sports cars online through eBay or Cars.com. The Mitsubishi dealership near me might have certified pre-owned models.

Stories from Real Owners

Jake, a 28-year-old from Florida, bought a 1999 Eclipse GSX for $9,000. “It’s my daily driver. Added a $1,500 turbo kit, and it’s a blast. Maintenance is $600 a year.”

Lisa in Texas owns a 2006 Evo IX. “Got it for $22,000 in 2024. It’s fast and reliable. Oil changes keep it happy.”

These stories show why Mitsubishi performance cars stay loved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does a Mitsubishi sports car cost in 2025?

Used ones range from $5,000 to $80,000.

Best used Mitsubishi sports cars under $20,000?

Eclipse or Starion are great deals.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution vs Subaru WRX comparison?

Evo’s AWD beats WRX’s grip.

Where to buy a Mitsubishi Eclipse sports car?

Try CarGurus, Autotrader, or PakWheels².

Top Mitsubishi performance cars of all time?

Evo, 3000GT, and Eclipse.

Are Mitsubishi sports cars reliable?

Yes, 4.5/5 with care.

Mitsubishi 3000GT engine specs and features?

3.0L twin-turbo V6, 300-320 hp.

Cheapest Mitsubishi sports car models?

Mirage Sport, but Eclipse is better used.

Mitsubishi GTO horsepower and performance review?

320 hp, 5.5 seconds to 60 mph.

Maintenance cost of Mitsubishi sports cars?

$500-$1,000 yearly, $2,000 for turbo fixes.

In Conclusion

A Mitsubishi sports car is more than just a ride—it’s a piece of rally history. From the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution to the Mitsubishi Eclipse sports car, these cars deliver thrills. In 2025, you can find a used one to fit your budget. Use our tips to buy smart and keep it running. JDM performance vehicles like these are hard to beat. Which Mitsubishi sports car will you chase?