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12/08/2008
By EWAN KENNEDY
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Big pure-bred Japanese sports cars are a rarity on the world automotive scene. While potential buyers of most other vehicle types are happy to consider Japanese products, those going for full-on sports machines show a strong slant for products from Europe.
So cars like the Mitsubishi 3000GT have not been a huge success on the new-car market in countries like Australia. Meaning they can be well-priced on the used scene. Private ‘grey’ imports of cars such as the Mitsubishi GTO and various Nissan GTR and Skyline models means there continues to be an interest in machines in this class. The fact that the 3000GT was a factory backed full import from 1992 until its local demise in 1998 certainly lifts its popularity on the used market.
 Designed principally for the American market, where it was sold as a Dodge, the 3000GT suits US drivers in that it is blindingly quick in straight line acceleration, but somewhat clumsy in corners. It has plenty of road grip, but could be more nimble in changing direction. In the minds of some this means it is not a pure sports car, but the majority of the type of people attracted to Mitsubishi cars will be happy with its characteristics.
Interestingly, the less than nimble handling means the 3000GT is seldom driven hard - so should last longer than a European sportscar which is constantly being pushed to the limit.
Crammed full of high technology the Mitsubishi 3000GT is a wonderful example of what ambitious Japanese engineers can do when given a generous budget. This big machine has an intercooled turbocharged V6 engine, four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering, climate control, cruise control – and lots more.
The 3000GT was sold as a two-plus-two coupe with a rear hatchback. The front area is reasonably spacious and the seats are well-shaped and comfortable. The back seat is tiny and cramped with nowhere near enough headroom for adults, though some kids will be able to squeeze in there. Then again, it’s hardly alone in this direction as cars in this class are aimed at those looking for fun for one or two.
Mitsubishi introduced the car to Australia in October 1992. The body style received a major revision in September 1994, with the previous pop-up headlights being replaced by built-in units. At the same time the bumper and front airdam were reshaped to give a more aggressive look.
The Mitsubishi engine is a 3.0-litre V6 with its power boosted by a turbocharger. Turbo lag is reasonably short, but still enough to irritate at times if you’re the sort of driver who demands instant response. Once the engine does come on boost it is great fun to sit behind.
 Front mounted, the engine is set far enough back to give good overall weight distribution. It drives all four wheels through a permanent all-wheel drive system. Only a five-speed manual transmission is offered, there is no automatic.
The manual shift and clutch are surprisingly easy to operate for a car of this size and engine torque, but try them for yourself just in case they prove a little too much for your taste.
Braking is excellent thanks to big four-wheel discs, backed up by an advanced four-channel anti-lock system for the times the driver gets it wrong.
Reliable in the traditional Mitsubishi manner, the 3000GT could be a worry long term. It will be expensive to overhaul when things eventually wear out. However, we know of no inherent defects in the vehicle.
Spare parts are still generally available at Mitsubishi dealers. Check with your local guys to make enquiries. Also ring around Japanese aftermarket spare parts outlets to see if they anticipate any hassles. Spares are reasonably priced for what they are, but the sheer complexity of the car means you can be paying for a lot more bits than you would normally expect.
Worried about Insurance? You have every right to be, especially if you are young and/or inexperienced. Insurance companies don't like sports cars, or turbocharged engines, or cars that are complex and difficult to repair - the 3000GT strikes out on all three. Premiums can be frightening.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Look for crash damage repairs: sight along the panels for a ripple finish, check for paint colours that don't match exactly and look for tiny paint overspray spots on non-painted areas such as the glass, badges and panel trim.
By all means carry out an initial inspection yourself but always have the final inspection done by an expert on the car.
Listen for a whining sound from the turbocharger under acceleration. Some noise is normal, too much could mean an expensive repair job.
Look at the bonnet above the turbocharger. Paint cracking and other signs of overheating mean the car has frequently been driven hard.
Watch for fumes from the exhaust when the car is accelerated hard. If present these will be at their worst when the engine has been idling for a minute or so before being accelerated.
Clutch and gearbox operation should be smooth, positive and reasonably easy, if not there could be troubles. The traditional test of listening for a gear crunch during a fast downchange from third to second generally gives the first indications of troubles.
Modifications to the engine and/or suspension may mean the car has been thrashed. Though it has to be said that many mods in this class are purely there to impress peers, not to give the car more real dynamics.
CAR BUYING TIP
Big sports cars appeal only to a small number of buyers. The grapevine can be strong and healthy in this market segment. It’s worth asking around sporting car clubs in case someone knows of the specific car you are considering. |
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