Description
1987 Mitsubishi Starion 2. 6 Turbo Widebody
Selling my 1987 Mitsubishi Starion 2. 6 Turbo Widebody… I personally imported this from the USA, back in August 2019, because I couldn’t find one here, and I also wanted a rust-free example, so I opted to own a LHD solid model and have loved every minute of it! It has 2 previous owners (last one had it since 1999), very original and unmodified car, just turned 105k miles, MOT til November 2023, starts on the button and runs well. Naturally, with any older car, I’d call it a “rolling project”… totally useable on a regular basis, but with scope to spend as little or as much on it, as you want! The basic car is good, and I’ve enjoyed it for over 3yrs, with only minor maintenance. Here are the details:
EXTERIOR:
The bodywork and chassis are all very solid, the car came from a warmer climate, so rust hasn’t really been an issue… there are a couple of small bubbles on the lower rear arches now, but no holes etc. Tyres are all very new, wheels are in great shape, lights all work and it is very straight visually.
Main flaws are: because it came from a warmer climate, the red paint was completely faded beyond repair… my aim was to paint it, but then came covid, so I personally wrapped it in red vinyl, cause I was bored of looking at a the flat orange paintwork… and I had the time lol! It’s not a pro finish, but it is respectable and I’ve carried on using it, as I haven’t felt the need to paint it… however, it’s value would raise if a decent paint job was added. Front lower spoiler is damaged on the corners (vinyl hid it though), glass sunroof doesn’t work and is needing replacing or sealing (not leaking)… rear spoiler paint a bit flakey, otherwise it does look good and I always see people photographing it, so can’t be that bad a wrap job lol.
INTERIOR:
Both front leather seats are newly upholstered, so are in great condition, carpets and headliner are also good, along with the dashboard (not cracked)… steering wheel is a little weathered and has a cover on it and the centre console is duct tape finished, just around the gear stick area. Radio doesn’t work, although the electric aerial does still go up and down and the aircon is disconnected! Heater is brilliant though…
Inside is very respectable and comfy… if you’re over 6’ tall, you may want to extend the seat rails, they’re not the biggest cars inside. Oh the rear boot lid shocks are both bad and a pole holds up the hatch.
MECHANICS:
The car starts on the button, always has and in all temperatures… I always leave it running for a few mins after a cold start and 30secs before I shut it down. It had a service late last year, inc plugs, oil, filter, waterpump, coolant change and a couple of front suspension components. I’ve had other various bits changed along the way, and most recently a section of the exhaust fabricating towards the back box… and a replacement horn.
It has a light engine and gearbox oil leak… a few drips underneath after a long drive, but very minor. Brakes are spongier than normal, will want bleeding… I still drive it and it still stops, but it’s worth having them done before a long journeys… pads and discs are all ok though and wheels spin freely. Steering box has the common play in it, but there is a used one in the boot, along with other spare bits.
Worth noting, the car still has California emissions equipment on, which is fully removable and can be blanked off… It will contribute towards underperformance… Turbo is fine though, but a few easy mods would bring this car to life… meanwhile, it’s incredibly good on fuel!
SUMMARY:
The basis is very good, it is a completely useable classic car, heavily appreciating and super rare! You’d need £20k+ to buy a decent one these days! I drive it at weekends (when dry), and on quite long trips through the Cotswolds… it consistently impresses me and is still really reliable and hasn’t let me down once, even in this years 40 degree heat. Yes you can spend a few grand on it if you wanted to modify it or make it mint, or you can spend £50 on petrol, and just enjoy it… choice is yours. It’s still a Starion and it’s still got a full MOT and there are not many around at all. No welding needed either… A rare opportunity right here!
