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All four registered Mitsubishi Lancer 1600 GSRs finished the toughest rally in the world championship in 1976: the Safari Rally held in Kenya. And not only did they finish; Joginder Singh and David Doig also won this grueling event, with the same Lancers finishing second, third, and sixth. A huge success for the Japanese manufacturer, who proved they could achieve high reliability and impressive results with relatively simple cars. At the time, the Safari Rally was not only the most important, but also the toughest rally in the world championship, and many brands, such as Porsche, Fiat, Lancia, Mercedes, and others, participated. The fact that the little Lancer 1600 GSR won this rally three years in a row is still something to take a moment to admire.
For many years afterward, Mitsubishi continued to win everything there was to win in rallying, and it's no wonder that the car that launched its success is considered the icon. We're talking about the Lancer 1600 GSR. It might look a bit ordinary, but that's part of the appeal. True enthusiasts and experts, however, know full well the influence this car has had on rallying and appreciate it.
This also prompted the owner and experienced rally car preparer of this Lancer to search for the same model that had won the Safari Rally. A near impossible task, you might say, as research revealed that only 13 units were imported into Europe at the time. The difference lies in the 4G32 1597 cc OHC engine with dual Mikuni 32&28 DID SA carburetors combined with a 5-speed gearbox. It also features a tachometer, sports steering wheel, hood vents, and, of course, the GSR emblem and 5-speed. Yet, the arduous search was successful in 2015, when the right model was finally found in Belgium. This GSR had only been on the road for a few years before it ended up in a dealer's showroom.
After purchase, the Lancer was rebuilt over the years entirely to the specifications of the time as a replica of Andrew Cowan's Safari car (founder of Ralliart Mitsubishi Motorsport). An exception is the roll cage, which is not a simple coilover cage as it was back then, but is now completely welded into the car and has also been expanded with more reinforcement points. All in accordance with current safety requirements and the regulations of historic rallying, and provided with a valid Historic FIA certificate.
The completely overhauled engine delivers 105 hp, and has a C2 rally camshaft with CSI ignition in original housing (adjustable ignition curve) and a spaghetti exhaust manifold with stainless steel exhaust system
The chassis is equipped with adjustable Koni rally shock absorbers (within the FIA standard)
The brake system has been completely renewed and equipped with new lines and Stahlflex brake hoses.
The interior is equipped with all the rally equipment, including a mechanical Belgom Tinmaster, reading lamp, hand fire extinguisher and FIA 4-point belts.
The trunk houses an aluminium FIA Safari fuel tank with built-in catch tank and dual fuel pump with fuel gauge
On the exterior, the typical Safari components are immediately noticeable, such as the rear step supports and handles, and the special jack stands. The large searchlight is another typical feature. At the front, the reinforced aluminum sump plate is clearly visible, extending well beyond the gearbox.
The wheels are 13" Works alloy wheels. A total of 10 are included with the car, as well as a spare parts kit.
The organizers of England's renowned Goodwood Festival of Speed (- details above) also noticed how special this Mitsubishi is. In 2019, they accepted their invitation to put the Lancer through its paces here, among all the big names and brands from rallying, past and present. It was an unforgettable experience.
** LATEST NEWS:** This beautiful Lancer has already been approved for the 2026 German Eifel Rallye Festival. And as an added bonus, the new owner will have access to free and professional support. Take a look at: - details above
From personal experience, we can say that this is the ultimate rally event for a car like this. There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy a unique and roadworthy Mitsubishi Lancer 1600 GSR Safari.
