Mitsubishi 3000GT

{{short description|Japanese front-engine sports coupe}} {{Other uses|GTO (disambiguation){{!}}GTO}} {{Infobox automobile | image = Mitsubishi 3000GT -- 03-21-2012.JPG | caption = Mitsubishi 3000GT | name = Mitsubishi 3000GT (Z15A/Z16A) | aka = {{unbulleted list |Mitsubishi GTO (Japan) |Dodge Stealth |Sauber S1<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/cars/abandoned-history/abandoned-history-the-brief-and-mysterious-sauber-brand-where-ford-gm-and-45130471 | archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20250908172601/https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/cars/abandoned-history/abandoned-history-the-brief-and-mysterious-sauber-brand-where-ford-gm-and-45130471 | archivedate = September 8, 2025 | title = Abandoned History: The Brief and Mysterious Sauber Brand, Where Ford, GM, and Chrysler Visited Austria | first = Corey | last = Lewis | date = August 21, 2025 | work = The Truth About Cars | publisher = VerticalScope Inc. }}</ref>{{better|date=November 2025}} }} | manufacturer = [[Mitsubishi Motors]] | assembly = Japan: [[Okazaki, Aichi]] ([[Mitsubishi Motors#Locations|Nagoya Plant]]) | production = {{ubl |1991–1999 (Mitsubishi 3000GT) |1990–1996 (Dodge Stealth) }} | predecessor = [[Mitsubishi Starion]] | class = {{unbulleted list |[[Sports car]] ([[S-segment|S]]) |[[Grand tourer]] ([[S-segment|S]]) }} | model_code = {{unbulleted list |Z11A |Z15A/Z15AM |Z16A<ref name="Mitsubishi Quiet Greatness"/> }} | related = [[Mitsubishi Diamante]]/[[Mitsubishi Sigma|Sigma]] | body_style = {{ubl | 2-door [[liftback]] [[coupé]] | 2-door [[Convertible (car)|convertible]] (1995–1996) }} | engine = {{unbulleted list | 3.0 L [[Mitsubishi 6G7 engine#6G72|''6G72'']] [[SOHC]] [[V6 engine|V6]] | 3.0 L [[Mitsubishi 6G7 engine#6G72|''6G72'']] [[DOHC]] [[Multi-valve|24v]] V6 | 3.0 L [[Mitsubishi 6G7 engine#6G72|''6G72'']] DOHC 24v [[twin-turbocharged]] V6 }} | transmission = {{unbulleted list |4-speed [[automatic transmission|automatic]] ([[INVECS#INVECS|INVECS]] introduced 1992) |5-speed [[manual transmission|manual]] |6-speed manual (1993 onwards) }} | wheelbase = {{convert|2470|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} | length = {{convert|4600|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} | width = {{convert|1840|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} | height = {{convert|1285|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} | weight = {{unbulleted list |{{convert|3131|lb|kg|0|abbr=on}} ''Base'' |{{convert|3263|lb|kg|0|abbr=on}} ''SL'' |{{convert|3649|lb|kg|0|abbr=on}} ''SL Spyder'' |{{convert|3737|lb|kg|0|abbr=on}} ''VR-4'' |{{convert|4123|lb|kg|0|abbr=on}} ''VR-4 Spyder''}} | layout = [[Transverse engine|Transverse]] [[front-engine]], [[front-wheel drive|front-]]/[[four-wheel drive]] | designer = Masaru Suzuki (1987) }}

The '''Mitsubishi 3000GT''' is a front-engine, all-wheel/front-wheel drive [[Grand tourer|grand touring]]/[[sports car]] manufactured and marketed by [[Mitsubishi Motors|Mitsubishi]] from 1990 until 2000 over three different series. Manufactured in a three-door [[hatchback]] coupé body style in [[Nagoya]], Japan, the [[2+2 (car body style)|2+2]] four-seaters were marketed in the [[Japanese domestic market]] as the '''GTO''', and globally as '''3000GT'''. In North America, it was sold both as the Mitsubishi 3000GT (1991–1999) and the '''Dodge Stealth''' (1991–1996), a [[badge engineering|badge engineered]], mechanically identical [[captive import]]. As a collaborative effort between [[Chrysler]] and [[Mitsubishi Motors]], Chrysler was responsible for the Stealth's exterior styling.<ref name="styling">{{cite web |title = Dodge Stealth |publisher = Allpar |url = https://www.allpar.com/cars/dodge/stealth.html}}</ref><ref name="ref5"/>

The car was based on Mitsubishi's [[Mitsubishi Diamante|Sigma/Diamante]] and retained their transverse mounted 3-liter, 24-valve V6 engines and front-wheel-drive layout.<ref name = "Boca Raton News">{{cite web |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1291&dat=19970928&id=_kJUAAAAIBAJ&pg=5895,3703035 |title=Near-luxury Mitsubishi Diamante has an Aussie accent |work=[[Boca Raton News]] |agency=[[AutoWeek]] |date= 1997-09-28 |access-date= 2019-06-21 }}</ref> The GTO's engines were naturally aspirated or with twin-turbochargers and were also available with active aerodynamics (automatically adjusting front and rear [[Spoiler (automotive)|spoilers]]), four-wheel-steering, full-time all-wheel-drive and adaptive suspension.<ref name="ref5">{{cite web |title = The 1994 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR4 Was Too Far Ahead of its Time |first = Chris |last = Perkins |work = Road & Track |date = January 12, 2016 |url = https://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/classic-cars/videos/a27885/1994-mitsubishi-3000gt-vr4-motorweek/}}</ref>

Mitsubishi marketed a [[retractable hardtop]] variant, which were engineered and converted from coupé models in California by [[American Specialty Cars|ASC]],<ref name="asc">{{cite web |title = 3000GT Spyder - ASC Production, The Making of a Retractable Hardtop. |work = 3000GT Spyder Registry |url = http://3000gtspyderregistry.com/asc.html}}</ref> and sold as the ''GT Spyder'' or ''VR4 Spyder'' for model years 1993–1995.<ref name="retractableonline">{{cite web |title=History, Revival |publisher=Retractable Hardtop Online |url =http://retractable.free.fr/uk/index.html |access-date=3 February 2014}}</ref> These were the first fully automated retractable hardtop marketed since the 1959 Ford Skyliner.<ref name="nyt6">{{cite journal|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=yN8DAAAAMBAJ&q=Popular+Science+1935+plane+%22Popular+Mechanics%22&pg=PA253 |title=Disappearing Top On Auto Worked By Push Button |journal=Popular Mechanics |date=February 1935 |page=253 |volume=63 |issue=2 |access-date=14 August 2013 }}</ref>

The JDM model took its name from the [[Mitsubishi Galant GTO|Galant GTO]], a two-door [[hardtop]] [[coupé]] marketed by the company in the early 1970s, which in turn took its name from the [[Ferrari 250 GTO]], short for ''Gran Turismo Omologata'' – "Omologata" signifying that it met motorsport [[Homologation (motorsport)|homologation]] requirements.

==Overview== [[File:1991 Mitsubishi GTO (36949085656).jpg|thumb|left|1991 Mitsubishi GTO]] [[File:Mitsubishi 3000GT rear 2.jpg|thumb|Rear view]] Following the successful showing of the [[Mitsubishi HSR]] and Mitsubishi HSX concept cars at the 1989 [[Tokyo Motor Show]],<ref>''Motor Trend'', January 1990</ref> Mitsubishi unveiled the new GTO as a 2+2 seating grand touring car in order to compete with the [[Mazda RX-7#Third generation (FD3S)|Mazda RX-7]], [[Nissan 300ZX]], [[Honda NSX]], [[Subaru Alcyone SVX|Subaru SVX]], and the [[Toyota Supra]]. They resurrected the GTO name, and the car went on to serve as Mitsubishi's flagship for the remainder of the decade. Despite the cachet of the badge at home, it was marketed as the Mitsubishi 3000GT and as the Dodge Stealth outside Japan; the company was concerned that [[connoisseur]]s would object to the evocative nameplate from the [[Ferrari 250 GTO]] and [[Pontiac GTO]] being used on a Japanese vehicle.

Each was built on the same production line at Mitsubishi's plant in [[Nagoya]], Japan.<ref>[http://www.stealth316.com/2-production.htm "3000GT/Stealth Production Numbers"], Michael Reid & Jeff Lucius, stealth316.com, 2000–2004</ref> Its Japanese introduction coincided with the softening Japanese economy, subsequently known as the [[Japanese asset price bubble|"bubble economy"]].

JDM GTOs were marketed at Mitsubishi's ''[[Mitsubishi Motors#Japan Sales Channels|Car Plaza]]'' retail chain, with JDM buyers paying additional annual [[Road tax#Japan|road tax]] as well as elevated taxes for being classified as a large car by Japan's [[Vehicle size class#Japan|exterior dimension regulations]].

A Dodge Stealth was scheduled as a 1991 [[Indianapolis 500]] [[pace car]], until the [[United Auto Workers]] (UAW) rejected it because of its Japanese rather than US-manufacture. A prototype of the [[Dodge Viper]] was substituted in place of it.<ref>{{cite journal | url = https://select.nytimes.com/gst/abstract.html?res=F2061FFD3D5F0C758EDDAB0894D9494D81 | title = A Pace Car Made (Quickly) in U.S. | first = Doron P | last = Levin | journal = [[The New York Times]] | date = 1991-02-26 }}</ref> Still used as a backup pace car, eventual race winner [[Rick Mears]] received a Dodge Stealth for winning the race and dealers sold pace car replica editions, as the Viper did not begin production until later that year.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Strohl |first1=Daniel |title=Were it not for the UAW, the Dodge Stealth R/T would have been the true Indy 500 pace car in 1991 |url=https://www.hemmings.com/stories/2019/01/03/despite-what-the-history-books-say-dodges-stealth-r-t-was-the-true-indy-500-pace-car-in-1991 |website=[[Hemmings Motor News]] | date=2019-01-03}}</ref>

Approximately 86,151 3000GTs and 65,303 Stealths were produced.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.stealth316.com/2-production.htm |title=3000GT/Stealth Production Numbers |author=Michael Reid |publisher=STEALTH316.COM }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.suthnr.com/garage/3s-production.html |title=Stealth & 3000GT Production/Sales Figures }}</ref> {{anchor|First|Z16A}}

==1990–1993 (Series 1) == Early models were internally designated Z16A and incorporated full-time [[four-wheel drive]] and [[four-wheel steering]] which was labeled as [[Mitsubishi AWC]].<ref name="Mitsubishi Quiet Greatness">{{cite book |last1=Brinker |first1=Mark R. |last2=Vernis |first2=Myron T. |title=Japan's Most Astonishing Automobiles For the Collector and Enthusiast |date=2022 |publisher=Quiet Greatness, LLC |isbn=978-0-578-34683-0 |edition=Volume 2}}</ref> [[Automotive aerodynamics|Active aerodynamics]] called "Active Aero Control System"<ref name="Mitsubishi Quiet Greatness" /> enhanced the coke bottle silhouette body styling, achieving a [[drag coefficient]] of {{Cd|0.33|link=car}}, with automatically deploying front and rear [[Spoiler (automotive)|spoilers]],<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Kataoka |first1=Takuya |last2=China |first2=Hiroshi |last3=Nakagawa |first3=Kunio |last4=Yanagimoto |first4=Kazuo |last5=Yoshida |first5=Masahiro |date=1991-02-01 |title=Numerical Simulation of Road Vehicle Aerodynamics and Effect of Aerodynamic Devices |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/44632068 |journal=SAE Technical Paper Series |volume=1 |article-number=910597 |location=400 Commonwealth Drive, Warrendale, PA, United States |publisher=SAE International |doi=10.4271/910597 |jstor=44632068 }}</ref> sport/tour exhaust modes called "Active Exhaust System",<ref name="Mitsubishi Quiet Greatness" /> [[pop-up headlights]] and articulated blister caps on the hood to accommodate the ECS controllers at the top of the [[strut]] turrets. The Dodge Stealth featured a signature cross-hair front bumper fascia, different B-pillar and quarter window treatments, and crescent-shaped rear spoiler — and did not include active aerodynamics. In 1993, the engine went to a 4-bolt main and a forged crankshaft, some of the early production models still received the cast crank.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.stealth316.com/2-2bolto4bolt.htm|title=Stealth 316 - 2-bolt to 4-bolt short block conversion}}</ref>

===North American market=== In North America, both the Mitsubishi 3000GT as well as the Dodge Stealth were available. Two different powertrains were offered on the 3000GT while the Stealth had three different options. The base 3-door hatchback Stealth came equipped with a 3.0-liter 12-valve SOHC V6 engine producing {{convert|164|HP|kW|abbr=on}} at 5,500rpm. The base 3000GT and SL model and the Dodge Stealth ES and R/T model came equipped with a 3.0-liter DOHC V6 engine producing {{cvt|222|HP|kW|0}}. The VR-4 (Viscous Realtime 4WD) and R/T Turbo came equipped with a twin turbocharged 3.0-liter DOHC V6 engine producing {{cvt|300|HP|kW|0}} at 5,500 rpm. A 5-speed [[Getrag]] 440 manual transmission was standard and a 4-speed [[INVECS]] automatic was an option on all models except the turbocharged variants. The 3000GT SL and Stealth R/T included an electronically controlled suspension as well as other features such as anti-lock brakes and automatic climate control while the turbocharged models further added performance options such as permanent 4-wheel drive, 4-wheel steering, limited-slip differential, active aerodynamics and came with Z rated 17-inch tires. [[File:1992 Mitsubishi GTO Twin Turbo E-Z16A engine.jpg|thumb|Twin turbo DOHC 6G72 engine]]

===European market=== In Europe, instead of the Mitsubishi-built<ref name="Mitsubishi Quiet Greatness" /> TD04-09B turbochargers used on Japanese and US Twin Turbo models that generated {{convert|9|psi|bar|1|abbr=on}}, the EU-spec model received the higher capacity TD04-13G turbochargers which generated {{convert|13|psi|bar|1|abbr=on}}. While power output is no higher than contemporary market models, these have lower discharge temperatures to better handle the prolonged high speeds possible on the German [[Autobahn]], along with an upgraded transmission.<ref name=13G>{{cite web | title = BPT-MHI-3000GT 13G Turbochargers (Pair) | url = http://www.bptstore.com/BPT-MHI-3000GT-13G-Turbochargers-Pair_p_69.html | publisher = Blouch Performance Turbo | archive-date = 2016-08-04 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160804092653/http://www.bptstore.com/BPT-MHI-3000GT-13G-Turbochargers-Pair_p_69.html }}</ref> The engine was rated at {{convert|286|PS|kW hp|abbr=on}}; the modifications took time and European models only went on sale in the autumn of 1992.<ref name="AK93">{{cite book | editor-last = Aichele | editor-first = Tobias | title = Auto Katalog 1993 | publisher = [[:de:Motor Presse Stuttgart|Vereinigte Motor-Verlage GmbH & Co. KG]] | location = Stuttgart | language = de | page = 136 | date = 1992 }}</ref>

===Reviews and performance=== Automotive magazines quoted 0-{{convert|60|mph|kph|0|abbr=on}} acceleration times ranging from 4.9 seconds<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hemmings.com/blog/2019/01/03/despite-what-the-history-books-say-dodges-stealth-r-t-was-the-true-indy-500-pace-car-in-1991/| date = 2019-01-03 | title = Were it not for the UAW, the Dodge Stealth R/T would have been the true Indy 500 pace car in 1991 | last = Strohl | first = Daniel | work = Hemmings Daily |access-date=2019-08-27}}</ref> to 6.0 seconds and quarter mile times of 13.6-13.9 seconds at {{convert|95-98|mph|kph|0|abbr=on}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparison-test/a15140581/nissan-300zx-turbo-vs-dodge-stealth-r-t-turbo-archived-comparison-test|title=Nissan 300ZX Turbo vs. Dodge Stealth R/T Turbo|last= St. Antoine|first=Arthur |date=1991-08-01|website=Car and Driver|language=en-US|access-date=2019-08-25}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.lov2xlr8.no/brochures/mopar/91_4.html|title=1991 Dodge|website=www.lov2xlr8.no|access-date=2019-08-27}}</ref> Dodge claims a 0-60 of 4.89 seconds for the 1991 R/T turbo models.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOi6cyFqh1w| title=1991 Dodge Stealth Commercial | website=[[YouTube]] | date=26 July 2011 }}</ref>

Magazines from the era praised its strong acceleration and grip as well as its full time AWD system allowing for all season use.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://bringatrailer.com/2020/10/27/road-track-road-test-1990-mitsubishi-3000gt-vr-4/| date = 1990-09-01 | title = Road and Track Road Test: 1990 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 | first = Hearst | last = Publishing | work = Road & Track | access-date=2022-10-01}}</ref> In a comparison test by AutoWeek the $34,423 (${{formatnum:{{Inflation|US|34423|1991}}}} in {{Inflation-year|US}} dollars {{inflation-fn|US}}) 1991 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 did 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds beating the lighter $61,000 (${{formatnum:{{Inflation|US|61000|1991}}}} in {{Inflation-year|US}} dollars {{inflation-fn|US}}) Acura NSX which hit 60 mph in 5.3 seconds.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.stealth316.com/images/aw_2-99_p8.jpg | date = 1991-01-04 | title= the well-seasoned sports car | last= Vaughn | first= Mark | work = AutoWeek |access-date=2022-10-04}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable" style="font-size:90%; text-align:center" |- ! style="width:28em" | Model name ! style="width:12em" | Engine ! style="width:12em" | Peak power ! style="width:12em" | Peak torque |- | Dodge Stealth (United States, Canada) | [[SOHC]] 12v V6 | {{cvt|164|hp|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 5,500 rpm | {{convert|251|Nm|lb.ft|0|abbr=on}} at 4,000 rpm |- | Mitsubishi GTO SR (Japan) | [[DOHC]] 24v V6 | {{cvt|225|hp|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 6,000 rpm | {{convert|275|Nm|lb.ft|0|abbr=on}} at 4,500 rpm |- | Mitsubishi 3000GT, 3000GT SL (United States) <br/> Dodge Stealth ES, Stealth R/T (United States, Canada) | DOHC 24v V6 | {{cvt|222|hp|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 6,000 rpm | {{convert|272|Nm|lb.ft|0|abbr=on}} at 4,500 rpm |- | Mitsubishi GTO Twin Turbo (Japan) | DOHC 24v V6 twin turbo | {{cvt|280|PS|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 6,000 rpm | {{convert|417|Nm|lb.ft|0|abbr=on}} at 2,500 rpm |- | Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 (United States) <br/> Dodge Stealth R/T Twin-Turbo (United States, Canada) | DOHC 24v V6 twin turbo | {{cvt|300|hp|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 6,000 rpm | {{convert|417|Nm|lb.ft|0|abbr=on}} at 2,500 rpm |- | Mitsubishi 3000GT (Europe) | DOHC 24v V6 twin turbo | {{cvt|210|kW|PS hp|0}} at 6,000 rpm | {{convert|407|Nm|lb.ft|0|abbr=on}} at 3,000 rpm |}

{{anchor|Second generation|1994|Spyder|Z15A}}

==1994–1996 (Series 2)==

[[File:1995 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 Spyder, rear left (Greenwich).jpg|thumb|The 1995-1996 3000GT VR-4 Spyder with the retractable hardtop in the up position.]] Facelift models were internally designated Z15A (2WS) and Z16A (4WS) and featured a revised front [[Bumper (automobile)|bumper]] to accommodate projector beam [[headlights]] and small, round projector fog lights. They were unveiled in August 1993 in Japan and gradually made their way to other markets as the earlier cars sold out. Some markets, such as the UK, did not get these models until as late as 1996.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/mitsubishi/3000gt/buying/|title=Mitsubishi 3000GT (1992 - 2000)|website=Honest John|access-date=2019-09-17}}</ref> The caps on the hood were replaced with integrated sheet metal blisters, and revised side air vents and rear bumpers were added. The interior was redesigned with dual air bags, a new audio system, and revised air conditioning refrigerant. The engines in the twin-turbo models received an increase to {{convert|320|hp|0|abbr=on}} and an increase in torque from {{convert|307|to|315|lbft|Nm|0|abbr=on}}. As a result Japanese models received an increase in torque, but the power rating remained unchanged at {{cvt|280|PS|kW hp|0}}.

The VR-4 model now included a six-speed [[Getrag]] 446 [[manual transmission]] with revised gear ratios. Larger wheel/tire combinations were available beginning in 1995. The base and SL model received 16-inch wheels in silver or chrome with 225/55 tires, while the VR-4 now had 18-inch chrome wheels with 245/40 tires (the Spyder had the standard 17-inch with higher profile tires from 1994 to handle the additional {{convert|400|lb|abbr=on}} of weight).

With subsequent price increases, features were discontinued: the tunable exhaust was phased out after 1994 model year, the ECS after 1995 model year, and the active aerodynamics disappeared after 1996. This was also when Chrysler ceased sales of the Dodge Stealth captive import, and for the remainder of its life only Mitsubishi-badged versions were available.

===Spyder=== Chrysler and Mitsubishi worked with [[American Sunroof Company|ASC]] to engineer and convert 3000GTs into [[retractable hardtop]]s, marketed as the Spyder SL and Spyder VR4 for 1995 and 1996 model years.

In 1995, Mitsubishi's 3000GT Spyder was available in four color combinations: red with grey leather interior, black with ivory leather interior, white pearl with grey, and martinique yellow with ivory leather interior. In 1996 the 3000GT Spyder was available in red with tan interior, black pearl with tan leather, white pearl with tan leather interior, and green pearl with tan leather. SL Spyders were only available with an automatic transmission while the VR4 Spyder was only available with a 6-speed manual transmission.

===GTO MR=== The GTO MR model appeared in the Japanese market in August 1994. The ‘Mitsubishi Racing’ or MR moniker, has been used on a few other performance Mitsubishis such as the [[Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution|Lancer Evolution]], and usually meant a lighter model. The GTO MR was essentially a lightweight GTO Twin Turbo that deleted 4WS, ABS, ECS and Active Aero, but was mechanically identical to the normal GTO Twin Turbo aside from a final drive ratio of 4.154.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.3swiki.org/Transmission:_Gear_Ratios|title= Gear Ratios}}</ref> Available as an option were AP Racing 6 pot brakes, used on the N1 spec GTO.<ref>{{Cite web |last=San |first=Kevin |date=2015-10-15 |title=25 YEAR CLUB: Mitsubishi GTO |url=https://japanesenostalgiccar.com/25-year-club-the-mitsubishi-gto-is-officially-a-japanese-nostalgic-car/ |access-date=2024-05-29 |website=Japanese Nostalgic Car |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7T4wJOW3wY |title=R32GT-Rが敗れる日 Part 1 GTO、スープラが戦闘力アップ!!【Best MOTORing】1994 |date=2016-09-27 |last=Best MOTORing official ベストモータリング公式チャンネル |access-date=2024-05-29 |via=YouTube}}</ref> Chassis numbers for the MR start with Z15A. This lowered the weight of the MR to {{cvt|1650|kg|lb|0}}. The AWD system featured in the MR received the same 45% front 55% rear split ratio as the other turbo models.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.automobile-catalog.com/car/1994/1967075/mitsubishi_gto_twin-turbo_mr.html|title=Detailed specs review of 1994 Mitsubishi GTO Twin-Turbo MR offered since August 1994 for Japan}}</ref>

[[Best Motoring]], a Japanese television program about Japanese cars, featured the 1994 GTO MR in an hour long program where it beat the lighter R32 [[Nissan Skyline GT-R|Skyline GT-R]] over a mile in acceleration.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHPh3KT6BNM| title=Drag Race #26 | Mitsubishi GTO (3000gt) MR vs Nissan Skyline R33 GT-R | website=[[YouTube]] | date=10 July 2020 }}</ref>

===Beckenbauer edition=== In 1994, Mitsubishi released a limited edition of what was now the previous generation 3000GT, branded as "Beckenbauer Edition." Honoring [[Franz Beckenbauer]]. All were painted Lamborghini yellow and were equipped with a Remus sports exhaust, OZ Futura rims, a numbered plate signed by Beckenbauer, and a [[C-Netz]] mobile phone system. Only 30 were made, sold through 1995.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mitsubishi-kluegl.de/page/gallery/mitsubishi-3000-gt-franz-beckenbauer-edition-nr-8-30-2473/|title= Mitsubishi 3000 GT Franz Beckenbauer Edition Nr.8/30 | publisher = Autohaus Bernd Klügl | location = Heppenheim, Germany |website=www.mitsubishi-kluegl.de|language=de|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180629102406/https://www.mitsubishi-kluegl.de/page/gallery/mitsubishi-3000-gt-franz-beckenbauer-edition-nr-8-30-2473/ | archive-date=2018-06-29}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.3si.org/threads/3000gt-franz-beckenbauer-edition.522560/|title=3000GT Franz Beckenbauer Edition|date=15 July 2011|work=3si.org|access-date=15 March 2020}}</ref>

===Reception=== The redesign of the second generation 3000GT brought it up to date, especially through the loss of pop-up headlights and the front strut caps and resulting smoother hood.<ref name=RT942>{{cite magazine | url = http://www.300zx.se/images/articles/Road%20and%20track%2002-94/rtt02.jpg | ref = DK94 | title = The 300 Horsepower Club | page = 75 | first = Douglas | last = Kott | magazine = [[Road & Track]] | date = February 1994 | volume = 45 | number = 6 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20221031221804/http://www.300zx.se/images/articles/Road%20and%20track%2002-94/rtt02.jpg | archive-date = 31 October 2022 }}</ref> The Tuneable Exhaust System was phased out in 1995 and the Active Aero was phased out in 1996. A notable change was the brake redesign, facelift models received 2-piston rear brake calipers and larger front brakes that showed no sign of fading under heavy use unlike the early models. Braking distances improved slightly. The new 6-speed was geared well and paired with the extra horsepower and torque allowed the car to out-accelerate its rivals from a standing start. These changes made all models lighter, the VR-4 was now {{convert|3737|lb|kg}} and the SL {{convert|3263|lb|kg}}.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.edmunds.com/mitsubishi/3000gt/1997/features-specs/|title=Used 1997 Mitsubishi 3000GT Specs & Features}}</ref>

Road tests at the time showed the second generation 3000GT VR-4 to be capable of {{convert|60|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on}} in 4.8 - 5.4 seconds<ref>{{cite web |title=Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4, Porsche 911 Turbo, and Toyota Supra Turbo - Performance Imports |url=https://www.motortrend.com/news/mitsubishi-3000gt-vr4/ |access-date=21 June 2019 |date=1 May 1997}}</ref> and the quarter mile in 13.5 seconds at {{convert|101|to|105|mph|km/h|abbr=}}, making it faster in a straight line than the [[Nissan 300ZX]] Twin Turbo and [[Mazda RX-7]] Twin Turbo.<ref>{{cite web |title=Virtual Velocity - Cover Story - MotorTrend |url=https://www.motortrend.com/news/virtual-velocity/ |website=MotorTrend |access-date=16 June 2019 |date=1 July 1995}}</ref><ref name="ref5" /><ref>{{cite web |title=1994-1999 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR4 / GTO / 3000 GT VR-4 - Modern Racer - Auto Archive |url=https://www.modernracer.com/mitsubishi3000gtvr4.html |website=www.modernracer.com |access-date=21 June 2019}}</ref> Though heavy, it was comfortable and easy to drive fast. Thanks to the ample power, it could be taken around a track quickly, with noted under steer and a lack of feedback.<ref name=RT944>[[#DK94|Kott]], [https://web.archive.org/web/20221031221803/http://www.300zx.se/images/articles/Road%20and%20track%2002-94/rtt04.jpg p. 77].</ref>

{| class="wikitable" style="font-size:90%" |- ! style="width:26em" | Model name ! style="width:8em" | Engine ! style="width:12em" | Peak power ! style="width:10em" | Peak torque |- | Dodge Stealth (US, Canada) | style="text-align:center" | SOHC 12v V6 | style="text-align:center" | {{convert|119|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} at 5,500 rpm | style="text-align:center" | {{convert|250|Nm|lb.ft|0|abbr=on}} at 4,000 rpm |- | Mitsubishi 3000GT, 3000GT SL, 3000GT SL Spyder (US); Mitsubishi GTO SR (Japan)<br>Dodge Stealth R/T (US, Canada) | style="text-align:center" | DOHC 24v V6 | style="text-align:center" | {{convert|166|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} at 6,000 rpm | style="text-align:center" | {{convert|277|Nm|lb.ft|0|abbr=on}} at 4,500 rpm |- | Mitsubishi GTO twin turbo, GTO MR (Japan) | rowspan=2 style="text-align:center" | DOHC 24v V6 twin turbo | style="text-align:center" | {{cvt|280|PS|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 6,000 rpm | rowspan=2 style="text-align:center" | {{convert|427|Nm|lb.ft|0|abbr=on}} at 2,500 rpm |- | Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4, Spyder (US)<br>Dodge Stealth R/T twin-turbo (US, Canada) | style="text-align:center" | {{cvt|320|hp|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 6,000 rpm |}

==1997–2000 (Series 3)== [[File:Mitsubishi GTO twin turbo (8979617131).jpg|thumb|The 1999 VR-4 featured a distinct inverted airfoil spoiler]]

The [[SOHC]] engine was added to the Mitsubishi 3000GTs after the discontinuation of the Stealth. The 3000GT's featuring the single cam engine had a weight of {{convert|3131|lb|kg}} provided that they were not offered with the sunroof and leather seats.

The 1997-2000 3000GTs are separated by pre- or post-facelift. Slower sales in the American sports car market led to the major facelift plans for 1997 being abandoned. Minor cosmetic changes were implemented instead including a new front bumper and rainbow-shaped arched type wing.

In 1999, the car received its last exterior makeover facelift; with the new aggressive front bumper, headlamps, turn signals and sail panels. A true inverted airfoil spoiler coined the "Combat Wing" only for the 1999 VR-4 were used to distinguish it from previous models. Non-Turbo models did not receive the "Combat Wing" and kept the arched spoiler from the pre-facelift. 1999 was the final year the 3000GT was available in the U.S. market. With sales slowing to a trickle and new [[Side collision|side impact]] regulations looming, production for the [[Japanese domestic market]] finally ceased in 2000.<ref name=response>{{cite web | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160624215657/http://response.jp/article/2000/07/13/3137.html | archive-date = 2016-06-24 | url = http://response.jp/article/2000/07/13/3137.html | title = スポーツカーは不必要、三菱『FTO』と『GTO』が揃って廃止 | trans-title = Sports cars unnecessary, Mitsubishi FTO and GTO discontinued | language = ja | date = 2000-07-13 | first = Shinichi | last = Ishida | publisher = IID, Inc. | work = Response.jp }}</ref> A last two cars were sold the following year.<ref>[http://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/corporate/ir/share/pdf/e/fact2005.pdf Fact & Figures 2005] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070305232559/http://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/corporate/ir/share/pdf/e/fact2005.pdf |date=2007-03-05 }}, Mitsubishi Motors website</ref> In a test by [[Popular Mechanics]] the USDM 1999 3000GT VR-4 ran a 13.44 seconds quarter mile (~402 m) at {{convert|101.7|mph|km/h|1|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite book |title=Popular Mechanics |date=July 1999 |publisher=Hearst Magazines |page=86 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=SGYEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA86 |access-date=18 June 2019 |language=en}}</ref> [[File:1997 3000GT SL.jpg|thumb|Pre-1999 facelift with new bumper and rainbow-arched wing]]

{| class="wikitable" style="font-size:90%; text-align:center" |- ! style="width:20em" | Model name ! style="width:12em" | Engine ! style="width:12em" | Peak power ! style="width:12em" | Peak torque |- | Mitsubishi 3000GT (United States) | SOHC 12v V6 | {{cvt|162|hp|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 5,500 rpm | {{convert|250|Nm|lb.ft|0|abbr=on}} at 4,000 rpm |- | Mitsubishi 3000GT SL (United States); Mitsubishi GTO SR (Japan) | DOHC 24v V6 | {{cvt|225|hp|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 6,000 rpm | {{convert|277|Nm|lb.ft|0|abbr=on}} at 4,500 rpm |- | Mitsubishi GTO twin turbo, Mitsubishi GTO MR (Japan) | DOHC 24v V6 twin turbo | {{cvt|280|PS|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 6,000 rpm | {{convert|427|Nm|lb.ft|0|abbr=on}} at 2,500 rpm |- | Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 (United States) | DOHC 24v V6 twin turbo | {{cvt|320|hp|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 6,000 rpm | {{convert|427|Nm|lb.ft|0|abbr=on}} at 2,500 rpm |}

==Gallery== {{gallery | width = 200 |title=| height = 130 |File:Red92VR4rear.jpg|The Active Aero spoiler on a 1992 3000GT VR-4 |File:Dodge Stealth Indy 500 Officialcar1991.jpg|1991 Dodge Stealth [[Indianapolis 500|Indy 500]] official car |File:1991 Dodge Stealth RT front left.jpg|A 1991 Dodge Stealth R/T |File:White Mitsubishi 3000GT front.jpg|A 1995 base model 3000GT }}

==References==

{{Reflist}} === Bibliography ===<!--

==== General ====--> {{refbegin}} * {{Jackson: Japanese Super Cars| pages=6–11, 32–43}} {{refend}}<!--

==== Workshop manuals ==== {{refbegin}}

{{refend}}-->

==External links==  {{Commons category-inline|Mitsubishi GTO}} * [http://www.mitsubishi-motors.co.jp/pressrelease/j/products/detail649.html GTO press release], Mitsubishi-motors.com, August 25, 1998 (Japanese)

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