Mitsubishi Starion

Introduction

The Mitsubishi Starion is a classic sports coupe from the 1980s that showcased Mitsubishi’s performance engineering. Positioned as a competitor to cars like the Nissan 300ZX and Toyota Supra, the Starion became popular for its turbocharged engines and rear-wheel-drive layout. With sharp styling and advanced technology for its era, it remains a favorite among enthusiasts and collectors. The Starion also played a significant role in motorsport, further cementing its legacy.

Exterior

The exterior of the Starion reflects the bold, angular styling of the 1980s. Its wide stance, pop-up headlights, and flared wheel arches give it an aggressive look. Aerodynamic lines and sporty alloy wheels emphasize its performance orientation. Higher trims featured wider body kits, known as “widebody” versions, that made the car even more striking. The Starion’s design has aged gracefully, maintaining its appeal as a retro sports coupe.

Interior

Inside, the Starion offers a driver-focused cabin with a sporty atmosphere. Bucket seats provide support during spirited driving, while the dashboard is angled toward the driver for better control. Digital displays, available in some versions, added a futuristic touch for the era. The combination of premium materials, clear instrumentation, and functional ergonomics created an engaging driving environment.

Safety Features

For its time, the Starion offered solid safety features. Standard equipment included seatbelts, reinforced construction, and front disc brakes. Some versions came with advanced features like ABS, which was innovative in the 1980s. While not as advanced as modern cars, the safety systems were competitive for its class and era.

Engine Trims

The Starion was best known for its turbocharged 2.0L and 2.6L 4-cylinder engines, producing strong performance for the time. These engines were paired with manual or automatic transmissions, with most enthusiasts preferring the manual for maximum control. Rear-wheel drive and a balanced chassis made it agile and enjoyable to drive. The performance trims, especially the widebody turbo models, remain highly sought after today.

Maintenance

Maintaining a Starion today requires dedication, as it is now considered a classic car. Regular servicing includes engine checks, turbo maintenance, and brake inspections. Finding original parts can be challenging, but enthusiast communities and aftermarket suppliers support restoration efforts. With proper care, the Starion can remain a reliable and rewarding classic sports coupe.

Competitors

The Mitsubishi Starion competed with iconic 1980s sports cars such as the Toyota Supra Mk2, Nissan 300ZX, and Mazda RX-7. It also rivaled some European coupes like the Porsche 944. While competitors often emphasized refinement or rotary innovation, the Starion stood out with its turbocharged power, bold styling, and motorsport pedigree.