The Mitsubishi 3000GT

The Mitsubishi 3000GT, known as the ‘GTO’ globally, and sold as the ‘Dodge Stealth’ in the US, was launched in October 1990. The 3000GT was described as our "new age super four-wheel drive sports car".

Under the bonnet, the GTO was powered by a brand new 280PS 3.0-Litre V6 intercooled twin-turbo engine a naturally aspirated (NA) engine, which used an electronically controlled variable inlet valve system. The twin-turbo engine variant used a Getrag 5-speed manual transmission.

Thanks to its full-time four-wheel drive, the GTO delivered superb handling and stability. This four-wheel drive driveline used a viscous coupling centre differential and was able to transmit all the engine torque to the road surface. The GTO boasted a front-rear torque split of 45:55.

The GTO featured MacPherson strut suspension at the front, and a double wishbone arrangement at the rear. The electronically controlled suspension adjusted damping rates as required. The GTO's four-wheel steering system operated the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheel at mid to high-speed. All of this just further added to the car’s superb handling and stability.

The Mitsubishi GTO had some noteworthy features. Whilst driving at high speeds the rear spoiler would change position, optimising traction to the road surface. A front venturi* cover was automatically operated by an Active Aero System. At the touch of a button, the car’s Active Exhaust System was able to switch the exhaust gas routing to the silencer. This meant that you were able to either create a louder or quieter exhaust note.

* A venturi is a narrow tunnel under the car. As air is forced through, the air's speed increases creating a low pressure area which helps to 'stick' the car to the track.