|
#10 MITSUBISHI 3000GT
Putting the power to the pavement is the name of the acceleration game. The Mitsubishi 3000GT VR4 has 320 hp, much less than the Jag and Lightning, and the same power rating as the Mustang Cobra. So what gives the Mitsubishi the advantage over them? Traction.
This is the only all-wheel-drive car in this test. That means no wheelspin. Launching the Mitsubishi is so simple, it's like flying into outer space - even a monkey can do it. Just tach up the DOHC twin-turbocharged V6 up near its 6000 rpm power peak and drop that clutch. Granted, this isn't the best thing for the car's durability, but it sure gets this 2+2 off the line like a slingshot. All four 18-in. tires dig in, the 3000GT squats like Mike Piazza, and you are gone.
Don't expect any rubber when you throw gears, either. Tire slip in this car is harder to come by than a date with Pamela Anderson. Shifter action and clutch takeup could be a bit smoother, so quick gear changes aren't easy. But the V6's surprising amount of low-end torque really gets the heavy Mitsubishi going. And the motor pulls right up to its 7000 rpm redline.
One thing missing from the Mitsubishi's stellar performance: the right sounds. Its hair dryer exhaust note just doesn't cut it.
Test Summary:
Mitsubishi 3000GT
- Base price: $44,600, Price as tested: $45,140
- Engine: 3.0L/181.0 CID DOHC 24v twin turbo V6
- HP: 320 @ 6000 rpm, Torque: 315 ft.-lb. @ 2500 rpm
- Trans: 6M, Drivetrain: front engine/awd
- Final drive: 3.87:1 w/center viscous coupling
- Curb weight: 3737 lb, Weight/HP ratio: 11.7
- Horsepower/liter: 106.7, Tires: 245/40ZR18
- Acceleration: 0-30 mph: 1.70 sec. 0-60 mph: 5.00 sec.
- 1/4 mile: 13.44 sec. @ 101.79 mph
| 
