Currently sitting in my toilet for the amusement of both myself and my guests is a copy of [easyazon_link identifier=”B00FO05RR2″ locale=”US” tag=”theworsdjever-20″]Top Gear’s Midlife Crisis Cars [/easyazon_link] – the ultimate guide to the best and worst cars to buy when you suddenly get to mid lift crisis stage. And while I’ve got a bit to go before I hit that stage of wanting a Posche 911, after reading it time and time again I really want to take a Mitsubishi EX 2000 Turbo for a spin…
Why the sudden interest in the EX Turbo 2000? Well firstly for the simple ‘basic motoring that still means business’ looks:
Yep, no over sized wings, hood scoops, flashy lights, super low springs etc here.
Secondly because Turbo:
In Europe, the Lancer EX was offered with the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine known as the Lancer EX 2000 Turbo. It achieved a maximum output of 125 kW (170 PS) and managed a top speed of 200 km/h (124 mph). This model was equipped with EFI. A rally version of the Lancer EX 2000 Turbo was made for the 1000 Lakes Rally that gave out 206 kW (280 PS). Sales of this model were low because of emission regulations Japan imposed at that time.
Thirdly, rarity. Being a European released variant and me being Australian based, it’s highly unlikely that I’m ever going to cross paths with one anytime soon. There’s probably more chance of seeing an imported 1800 version shipped over from Japan:
In 1980, The Lancer EX was introduced with a 1.8-liter turbocharged inline-four option known as the 1800GSR and GT Turbo. The first generation 1800GSR and GT were only available with a turbocharged, non-intercooled 135 PS (99 kW). However, in 1983, an intercooler was introduced, helping the turbocharged engine to produce 160 PS (118 kW).
And they just look like mad fun to sprint around in – especially if you just so happen to be near a gravel track come testing time..
So…who is keen to throw me the keys to theirs? 😀
Find out more about the EX history through Wikipedia.
Console yourself with never being able to buy one by settling with a model to put on the shelf instead! [easyazon_link identifier=”B006R63ROW” locale=”UK” tag=”drianoday-21″]Mitsubishi Lancer EX 2000 Turbo Neo 1:43[/easyazon_link]