A neglected jewel of JDM, the Mitsubishi FTO, is deserving of more admiration and attention.
In This Article...
The Mitsubishi FTO is dependable.
Although Mitsubishi FTOs are frequently very durable and dependable automobiles, maintenance is essential for any motor vehicles. Be cautious if you feel that the FTO you are inspecting has not been properly cared for and/or has been beaten frequently because you risk losing money.
Move to the front of the FTO and lift the hood or bonnet to start your engine inspection. Make that the catch operates properly and the bonnet lifts easily. If you see an issue, it can be the result of an accident.
Once you’ve finished, give the engine bay a thorough inspection, looking for any obvious issues like fluid leaks, broken or missing parts, and any changes (not necessarily a problem, but something that needs further inspection).
Numerous Mitsubishi FTOs have been modified, and many of those have had low-quality aftermarket parts or parts that aren’t right for the vehicle installed. If the FTO you’re considering has been altered, try to obtain a list of the parts that have been installed and the tuning specialists. We also advise you to stay away from any Mitsubishi FTO that is using excessive electricity.
Is the Mitsubishi FTO uncommon?
Given that fewer than 40,000 vehicles were ever produced, the FTO wasn’t a very popular vehicle in its era.
But the number of remaining survivors is currently steadily decreasing, thus it’s accurate to describe the FTO as a rare vehicle.
According to anecdotal evidence, we used to observe several FTOs in New Zealand. However, I can’t recall the last time I saw one (even the 3000GT/GTO is more common), and if you do, it’s usually in terrible shape and looks like it belongs on the scrap yard.
It’s a real shame because the FTO was regarded as a remarkable car in its day and, in the proper spec and trim, is still a nice car today. In reality, a competent GPX FTO is still a Honda Integra Type R DC2’s worthy rival.
You ought to think about rescuing one of these endangered animals if you have the chance. For additional details on the FTO, be sure to read our buyer’s guide and model history here.
The Mitsubishi FTO is swift.
You should be aware that the FTO is quick enough if you’re looking for one (at least in the V6 engine spec, and ideally with MIVEC). Although the four-cylinder models are undoubtedly a touch weak by today’s standards, the majority of would-be purchasers reading this website are probably already considering a V6 model.
Mitsubishi FTO: What is it?
Between 1994 and 2000, Mitsubishi Motors developed the front-wheel-drive coupe known as the Mitsubishi FTO. Its popularity as a grey market import into the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, and New Zealand led to an eventual limited distribution through Mitsubishi’s official dealers in those regions at the tail end of production. It was initially intended to be exclusively for the Japanese domestic market. It was honored with a Limited Edition of the FTO GPX model after winning the Car of the Year Japan award for 19941995 when it made its debut. It was offered for sale in Japan through two retail chains called Galant Shop and Car Plaza.
A Mitsubishi FTO is it a JDM vehicle?
The Mitsubishi FTO was a good-looking car with respectable performance in the 1990s. However, as many of them grew old and worn out over time, people are now more likely to recall them as a beat-up Japanese import with a space-saver on the right front, an out-of-favor WOF, and a scientific experiment inside. Although there aren’t many survivors, Turners Napier has one really lovely one.
First off, for those who dislike acronyms, JDM refers for the Japanese Domestic Market and FTO is for Fresh Touring Origination (you have to admit, FTO sounds better). The FTO was initially planned to be a JDM-only vehicle. However, due to its popularity as a used export to Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, when it was close to the end of its manufacture life, it was sold there in tiny quantities. One of those autos is this one.
But let’s review the FTO’s largely forgotten past before we go on to this specific vehicle. Its 1994 release followed a production that lasted until the year 2000. However, roughly 30,000 of the 36,805 FTOs manufactured in the first two years. A 4-cylinder base model, a 2.0 V6 engine, and a high-performance 2.0 MIVEC engine were all available. They were all connected to either a 5-speed manual transmission or the cunning semi-automatic Tiptronic setup. They received a lot of praise for being easy to drive and having a beautiful V6 engine sound at satisfyingly high revs.
Since they’ve all almost certainly been through the crusher, it all seems pointless. But wait, this New Zealander from 1998 has survived 60,000 km and must be among the top FTOs still in the country. I hear what you’re saying: “I wish it had a manual with the 200hp MIVEC engine. However, only 25% of FTOs had manual transmissions, and the non-Mivec V6 still produces 180hp and accelerates well enough.
The price range for this car’s Turners Napier auction next week is just $2500 to $3500. In a few years, it might become a highly prized classic, but even if it doesn’t, you’ll still have affordable fun in a vanishingly common sports vehicle. Here are more details.
The Mitsubishi FTO was produced where?
From 1994 to 2000, Mitsubishi FTO sport compact cars were manufactured in Japan. While it never reached the United States, it did once get to Australia and the UK.
The Mitsubishi FTO was a two-door coupe that was designed to sit in the lineup between the Eclipse and the 3000GT. And while it may have performed well in the United States, our gut feelings tell us that they likely didn’t want to compete with the Eclipse at the time in terms of sales.
But now that the “25-year rule” has been implemented, Americans can legally purchase one of these vehicles and fulfill their Gran Turismo fantasies on the nation’s most scenic backroads. Just keep in mind that it is right-hand drive.
Mivec engine: What does that mean?
Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control system “MIVEC” Variable Valve Timing Mechanism A variable valve timing system called the new MIVEC reduces fuel consumption. To lower intake resistance, the intake valve lift is continuously adjusted based on the operating circumstances.
How can I accelerate my Mitsubishi FTO?
When compared to a regular engine, superchargers and turbos assist in forcing more air through the engine. You need more air to maximize the power of your FTO since more air equals more power.
The advantages of upgrading your engine with one of these kits go beyond increased power and speed. Your automobile will be more effective and experience fewer issues in the long term with a better engine.
Introduction
A sort of icon of UK consumer power is the Mitsubishi FTO. Due to Mitsubishi’s refusal to allow an official UK introduction for the vehicle, coupe purchasers used their purchasing power to make the ‘Fresh Touring Origination’ the most popular Japanese import. The FTO became the emblem of the “Gran Turismo” generation thanks to its purposeful appearance, razor-sharp handling, and selection of cutting-edge engines. Finding a used example is as easy as pie. It might require a bit more work to find an honest one.
History
Since the MK 1 Toyota MR2 in 1984, the 1994 Mitsubishi FTO was the first sports car to win Japan’s prestigious Car Of The Year award. The FTO was available with three different engines, including a 1.8-liter 16-valve four-cylinder engine that produced 125 horsepower, a 2.0-liter V6 that produced 180 horsepower, and a MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing and lift Electronic Control system) version of the V6 that used variable valve timing to produce 200 horsepower.
Six imported models are offered. The base model is the 1.8-liter GS, while the 2.0-liter V6 with 180 horsepower is installed in the GR. A GR with larger alloy wheels, improved brakes, and an aggressive spoiler kit is the GX Sport. The most popular model was the GPX, which had an exterior resemblance to the GX Sport and a 200bhp MIVEC V6. The GX Aero, which chose a more aggressive spoiler kit, and the specialized GP version R, a lighter, stiffer version of the GPX, are two lesser-known variations. If you will, a GPX Type-R. Since 1997, when the FTO series had a minor redesign, “intelligent” five-speed INVECS II automatic gearboxes have been an option. The’mouth’ at the front of the automobile changed from an oval shape to a more rectangular appearance, and the indicators and front foglamps were now located in separate housings.
It wasn’t until May 2000 that the FTO GPX received the official seal of approval from Mitsubishi UK and was given a price tag of $22,995. The FTO GPX was initially only designed for the Japanese market, but official imports to New Zealand started in 1998. Mitsubishi might have just missed the boat, so to speak, as over 20,000 grey imported FTOs have already arrived.
What You Get
Even if the FTO were difficult to drive, which it most definitely isn’t, its rakish appearance would ensure its popularity. The FTO is unapologetically attractive, with strong front wheel arches that gently blast through the front wing’s line and a nicely proportioned wedge shape. A Hyundai Coupe or a Toyota Celica appear ungainly, deformed, and lugubrious in comparison to the Mitsubishi. The car has a real overtaking presence from the front, where its squinting headlights and aggressive air intake might well be mistaken for a Jaguar XK8 as it approaches in your rearview mirror.
If you choose a Japanese import, the quality of the equipment you receive is rather unpredictable. With the FTO, Mitsubishi used a menu-pricing strategy, delivering entry-level vehicles with extensive, but affordably priced, option lists. With the exception of the entry 1.8 model, most models come standard with ABS, electrically folding door mirrors, manual air conditioning, a drivers airbag, tilt-adjustable power steering, and central/remote door locking. Fully automatic air conditioning, a leather-rimmed steering wheel, and low-profile 205/50R16 tires were all standard on UK-spec FTO GPX cars. The FTO’s interior, which is arguably its worst component, fails to match the exterior’s visual impact in any way. The FTO is dated more than anything else by the vast amount of cheap plastic from the early 1990s that is on exhibit.
What to Look For
When examining grey import FTOs, exercise caution. Make sure the vehicle has passed an SVA test; if not, work out a 500 discount. The adjustments needed for SVA testing are not too difficult. It shouldn’t be difficult to convert your speedometer from kilometers per hour to miles per hour. Several businesses can also handle headlight adjustment, installing restrictor necks within fuel fillers to only accept unleaded fuel, and installing rear fog lights. If the appeal of Radio 2 starts to wane, you might require a band expander to plug between the radio and aerial because Japanese radios use a different frequency band than ours. Check the speed rating of the tyres and make sure the 112 mph speed restrictor is removed. Many Japanese cars have lower-quality Q-rated tires because of the speed limiter, which must be replaced with at least V-rated rubber. Another Japanese favorite are the enormous exhausts that are so noisy that you have to inspect them in the morning for tramps. You will also fail if your wing mirrors are too small. Beware of importers’ cunning habit of replacing the old km/h speedometer with a new mph face. Most likely, they left the odometer unaltered, adding a mile for each kilometer the vehicle is driven. The three year unlimited mileage warranty, three year anti corrosion perforation warranty, and full product liability clause that were included with official UK FTOs helped to somewhat explain the higher price.
A flyweight standard-fit battery, less-than-bulletproof air conditioning, unreliable central locking, warped brake discs, and failed window guides that cause rattly glass are all issues unique to FTOs. Hard-driven FTOs occasionally make a knocking noise over bumps from worn anti-roll bar bushes, and dirty idle control valves and sensors can cause lumpy idling, but overall the car is surprisingly dependable for such a complicated piece of equipment.
Be wary of 180bhp car owners who attempt to pass their vehicles off as MIVEC models. The placement of the oil filler can be used to distinguish between the engines. It is installed on a 180 horsepower V6 on the transverse engine’s right side and a MIVEC V6 on the left. Also, a G for a MIVEC GPX model and a U or H for GS or GR models will be the second-to-last letter of your car’s chassis number. Every 50,000 miles, cam belts must be replaced, and every 60,000 miles, fuel filters must be changed. The severe British winter will quickly turn an exposed FTO’s belly and chassis legs into a rusty mess, so make sure the car has been undersealed. The majority of FTOs will benefit from running on super-unleaded fuel and should be fed a diet of synthetic engine oil. If you were wondering what the two plastic loops in the passenger footwell were for, they were there to store the distress flares that the Japanese government requires in the event of a breakdown.
Replacement Parts
Prices are approximations based on a 2000 FTO V6. purchased a cheap FTO? Save some money for spares before spending it on a fantasy vacation to Fuengirola or some lovely uPVC windows. After all, the 800 you’d need to pay for a new exhaust system would cause the family to consider a weekend B&B in Clacton this summer rather than the Costas. With a starter motor weighing in at 361, a replacement headlight is priced at a somewhat high 350. While front brake pads cost 45 and rear brake pads cost 80, an alternator costs a respectable 195. Clutch kits need to cost 200. Despite the increasing number of vehicles on British roads, the FTO remains a rather specialized offering, even though economic theory predicts that prices will decline.
On the Road
The Mitsubishi FTO GPX is a misleading automobile. With under 1200kg to move around and 200bhp under its hood, you’d anticipate it to feel quite speedy, which makes it all the more perplexing when it doesn’t. You might find yourself checking the handbrake or attempting to recall the fuel type the owner most last refilled with. The numbers seem realistic enough60 mph is reached in 7.3 seconds, and the highest speed is just shy of 130 mphbut the FTO’s approach to getting there lacks any real drama. It’s only when you check the speedometer or wonder why other drivers have suddenly transformed into reflective old people that you realize the FTO isn’t slow at all, whether it’s because of the benign front-wheel drive chassis, the nearly linear power delivery, the muted engine note, or the supple suspension. It simply makes driving swiftly very seamless and eliminates a lot of the work involved in rushing along, which has the effect of boosting the driver’s confidence.
Peak power for the FTO is reached at 7500 rpm, confirming that it is a screamer rather than a lugger, however the sound that reaches the interior of the car is more of a muffled yowl. Although the INVECS-II five-speed automatic transmission is an intriguing bit of machinery, the five-speed manual transmission is a delight. As you start to go forward, you’ll see that it’s attempting to determine whether you’re in the mood to maintain a gear or slip up early out of laziness. It can distinguish between flat and sloping terrain, and if the driver chooses, a Tiptronic-style mode can be used to allow manual gear selection. It would be amazing if the gearbox didn’t impose such a performance penalty (rest to 60 in 9.1 seconds). Nevertheless, it is installed in about 70% of all UK FTO vehicles.
The brakes are given a significant failing grade on the FTO’s dynamic report card. Braking performance of the GPX is comparable to that of the Nissan Micra thanks to its 10.8-inch discs. Fitting front discs with grooves and holes to increase stopping power is one of the first upgrades that many FTO owners do.
Overall
The Mitsubishi FTO faces few competitors as an affordable, contemporary coupe. You won’t be purchasing much exclusivity, in contrast to the original importers, as awareness of the FTO’s merits has spread widely. You shouldn’t have any problems as long as you understand the distinction between purchasing and operating Japanese import models versus official UK automobiles. It’s a buyer’s market, so don’t believe your low-mileage import FTO is worth much more than you bought for it. Moreover, there are plenty other affordable FTOs circulating the market. You can therefore afford to take your time, be selective, and acquire the best you come across. If the driving itself doesn’t make you grin, the realization of the things you could have purchased with the money you spent on your FTO most likely would.