Mitsubishi Galant GTO (1971)Sicnag, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Mitsubishi Galant GTO MR

1971 — Japan

Muscle Era (1960-1974)Muscle CarJapaneseRacing HeritageRally LegendsHomologation SpecialsBarn Find CandidatesJDM Legends
Engine1,597 cc Inline-4 SOHC
Power125 hp
Torque116 lb-ft
Transmission5-speed manual
DrivetrainRWD
Body StyleCoupe
Weight2,205 lbs
0–60 mph9.8 sec
Top Speed115 mph
Production8,795 units
BrakesDisc / Drum
SuspensionIndependent, coil springs, MacPherson struts / Live axle, leaf springs

Mitsubishi Galant GTO MR

Mitsubishi's bold response to American muscle, the 1971 Galant GTO MR combined aggressive fastback styling with spirited performance. The MR (Mitsubishi Racing) variant featured widened fenders to accommodate larger wheels, distinctive body graphics, and a highly-tuned 1.6-liter engine with twin Solex carburetors producing 125 horsepower. While modest by American standards, the lightweight chassis and nimble handling made it a formidable competitor in Japanese touring car racing. Only 8,795 MR models were produced, making it one of the rarest Japanese muscle cars and a direct precursor to the Lancer Evolution lineage.

$28,000 – $65,000

Extremely rare outside Japan. Check for racing history as many were campaigned. Rust is common in floor pans, fenders, and rear quarter panels. Verify engine has matching twin Solex carburetors. Body panels and trim are nearly impossible to source. Look for documentation proving MR variant authenticity.

Built at Mitsubishi's Mizushima plant. The MR variant was produced in limited numbers specifically for homologation in Japanese touring car racing. Most examples were sold in Japan.