Mitsubishi Starion (1982-89)

Common faults
The Mitsubishi Starion, while a classic and beloved sports car, does have some common faults that owners and potential buyers should be aware of:
1. Engine Overheating: This can be due to high coolant temperature, steam, or coolant leaks. It’s important to check the coolant level and inspect for leaks.
2. Transmission Problems: Issues like difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises, or slipping gears can occur.
3. Vacuum Leaks and EGR System Faults: These can cause various performance issues.
4. Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Faults: Problems with the IAC valve or circuit can affect the car’s idle performance.
5. Front Spoiler Damage: The front spoiler is prone to being torn off, and replacements are hard to find.
6. Leather Interior Wear: The leather interior can become worn and ratty over time.
Despite these issues, many enthusiasts still appreciate the Starion for its unique charm and performance.
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Generations
The Mitsubishi Starion was produced in a single generation from 1982 to 1989. However, within this generation, there were various updates and changes, including the introduction of narrowbody and widebody versions.
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Trim Levels
The Mitsubishi Starion was available in several trim levels, each offering different features and options. Here are some of the common trim levels:
1. GSR-I: The base model.
2. GSR-II: Included power steering and electric windows, with optional digital dash cluster and trip computer.
3. GSR-III: Featured an improved audio system, trip computer system, digital dash cluster, and air conditioning.
4. GSR-X: Came with a leather interior, climate control, air conditioning, and cruise control.
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Engines
The Mitsubishi Starion was equipped with two main engine options during its production run:
1. 2.0-liter Turbocharged Inline-4 (G63B): This engine was commonly used in most markets and featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design.
2. 2.6-liter Turbocharged Inline-4 (G54B): This larger engine was primarily available in the American market and offered more torque compared to the 2.0-litre engine.
Both engines were turbocharged and featured electronic fuel injection, making the Starion one of the early adopters of these technologies in a sports car.
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Performance
The Mitsubishi Starion, known for its turbocharged performance, offered impressive specs for its time. Here’s what you could expect:
1. 0-60 mph: Approximately 7.5 to 8 seconds.
2. Top Speed: Ranged from 133 mph to 142 mph.
3. Power: The 2.6-litre turbocharged engine produced around 178 hp and 223 lb-ft of torque.
4. Fuel Consumption: Averaged around 12-13 litres/100km.
The Starion was also praised for its handling, low- and mid-range performance, and sharp turn-in. It even competed with the Porsche 944 of its time.
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Spares
You can find spare parts for your Mitsubishi Starion at several online stores in the UK and Ireland:
1. Autopartspro: They offer a wide range of parts, including brakes, filters, suspension components, and more.
2. Autodoc: Another comprehensive online store with a variety of parts for the Mitsubishi Starion.
3. Ultimate Styling: They provide parts such as headlights, rear lights, indicators, wing mirrors, filters, brakes, bearings, suspension, and engine parts.
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Specialists
There are several garage services in Northern Ireland that can service your Mitsubishi Starion:
1. SERE Motors: Located in Belfast and Lisburn, they offer comprehensive Mitsubishi servicing and maintenance with fully trained technicians.
2. Greg Mitchell Motors: An approved repair centre in Northern Ireland, they provide genuine parts and Mitsubishi-trained technicians.
3. Donnelly Group: Established dealership and servicing specialist for Mitsubishi vehicles.
4. Kwik Fit: They offer a range of cost-effective service packages for the Mitsubishi Starion.
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Racing
The Mitsubishi Starion had a notable presence in various racing series:
1. World Rally Championship (WRC): The Starion competed in several WRC events and was successful in Group A rallying.
2. Touring Car Racing: It participated in British, Japanese, and SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) touring car racing throughout the 1980’s.
3. SCCA Championship: The Starion won its first race in 1984 and capped off its racing career with an SCCA championship in 1990.
The Starion’s racing pedigree contributed to its reputation as a high-performance sports car
One of the most iconic race liveries for the Mitsubishi Starion was the ex-Works Starion Turbo campaigned by the late Colin Blower. This car was known for its distinctive livery during its time in the 1987/88 production saloon car season. The car was also shared with Tiff Needell in the 1988 24-hour Willhire endurance race at Snetterton.
The livery featured a striking combination of colours and sponsor logos that made it stand out on the track. This particular Starion was highly successful, with Colin Blower claiming over 20 victories with it.
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