Description
Mitsubishi GTO | 1990
Highlights:
- Japanese import with active UK registration
- 3.0L V6 with 4WD and rear-wheel steering
- Packed with tech: cruise control, electric seats, ABS, and climate control
- Unmodified and in largely original condition
- Desirable early model from the launch year
The seller offers for sale this 1990 Mitsubishi GTO, a well-known Japanese grand tourer equipped with a 3.0L V6 petrol engine and automatic transmission. Originally delivered in Japan, the car was imported into the UK in the early 2000s and still retains its UK registration documents. Some years ago, it was added to a private collection in Belgium where it remained stored before being acquired by the current seller in the Netherlands.
This example showcases several advanced features that made the GTO a technological flagship of its time. These include four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering, ABS, cruise control, bucket seats in the rear, electric mirrors and seat adjustment, central locking, overdrive, and a computer-controlled climate system.
Visually, the car retains its original paint and trim, though some cosmetic attention is warranted. The right front fender would benefit from a repaint. Inside, the cabin is largely complete and shows only minor signs of wear. The radio unit and antenna are missing, and the windscreen ventilation grille needs replacement — a new part is included. Due to extended storage, standard mechanical checks are advised to ensure roadworthiness. The vehicle does not have a current inspection, primarily because it was never registered in Belgium.
The Mitsubishi GTO (also sold as the 3000GT in other markets) debuted in 1990 as Mitsubishi’s answer to high-tech sports coupes like the Nissan 300ZX and Toyota Supra. Developed during the height of the Japanese performance car boom, it was engineered to impress with both its muscular styling and a suite of electronic and mechanical innovations. The GTO stood apart thanks to its full-time four-wheel drive system, active aerodynamics (in later models), and, unusually for the time, four-wheel steering. Mitsubishi also experimented with twin-turbo setups on higher trims, though this particular example is a naturally aspirated version.
Despite its technical prowess, the GTO often remained in the shadow of its rivals in Western markets, which makes well-preserved, unmodified early models like this one increasingly interesting to collectors. These cars offered a unique blend of comfort and futuristic features wrapped in aggressive coupe styling. Early 1990 models are particularly sought after as they represent the launch of this ambitious project and are seen as the purest incarnation of the GTO vision.
Today, the GTO enjoys a niche but passionate following among JDM enthusiasts. Its complex engineering, while intimidating for some, is also what makes it such a distinctive driving experience. Many cars have been modified or parted out over the years, so finding a relatively original example like this, complete with UK documentation and offered under the margin scheme, is a noteworthy opportunity for fans of Japanese classics.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
3. Good: Repairs to the bodywork and paint may be needed, possibly requiring part replacements.
Condition of the Interior
3. Good: Shows typical wear; may require some repairs or part replacements.
Technical Condition
2. Fair: There may be mechanical issues; the engine or transmission may be in suboptimal condition.
Overall Condition
3. Good Condition: May need some mechanical and cosmetic repairs, but can drive.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in South Holland province, the Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a UK registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
