A Ralliart
So how about a Special Edition? Not just any SE, GT or LE, how about a Ralliart? Mitsubishi delved into its parts bin and pulled out many, save for one important one, elements found on the Eclipse GT. First and most importantly, the real spice comes in the form of the Eclipse GT's 3.8L V6 which comes fully equipped with MIVEC variable valve timing for an output of 258 hp and 258 lb/ft of torque. What is lacking is the Eclipse's 6-speed manual transmission.
The Galant LS and Ralliart channel the 3.8L's energy to the front wheels via a 5-speed automatic transmission with a Sportronic manual mode. The car exhibits a good amount of torque steer as is and I cannot help but to think that the situation would be even worse with a manual gearbox. That and a projected low percentage of sales probably nixed the idea.
Spice up your life!
What is the first thing any self-respecting performance-oriented car needs? The answer is: 18" alloys. The handsome multi-spoke wheels immediately have a positive effect on the Galant's large flat surfaces. The only touch I would have added, removed in fact, is about 15 mm of wheel gap to accentuate the size of the wheels and to give the car a more aggressive stance. Next, an assortment of Ralliart badges on the door sills and grill are added. A small lip spoiler adorns the trunk lid as does a large chrome tailpipe. The bumpers are also specific to the Ralliart; they are two-tone in colour and the front one features a larger air intake opening.
The interior is also upgraded with specific trim and stitching. Included in the Ralliart package is a navigation system which sits atop the middle portion of the dashboard that looks strangely like a portable mini television. This is not the most attractive setup but it is functional nonetheless. Otherwise, the cabin is comfortable and large enough to accommodate 5 passengers. I had difficulty finding a proper driving position; the steering wheel does not tilt high enough nor is it telescopic.
So how about a Special Edition? Not just any SE, GT or LE, how about a Ralliart? Mitsubishi delved into its parts bin and pulled out many, save for one important one, elements found on the Eclipse GT. First and most importantly, the real spice comes in the form of the Eclipse GT's 3.8L V6 which comes fully equipped with MIVEC variable valve timing for an output of 258 hp and 258 lb/ft of torque. What is lacking is the Eclipse's 6-speed manual transmission.
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| The torquey 3.8L V6 is only available with a 5-speed automatic transmission. |
The Galant LS and Ralliart channel the 3.8L's energy to the front wheels via a 5-speed automatic transmission with a Sportronic manual mode. The car exhibits a good amount of torque steer as is and I cannot help but to think that the situation would be even worse with a manual gearbox. That and a projected low percentage of sales probably nixed the idea.
Spice up your life!
What is the first thing any self-respecting performance-oriented car needs? The answer is: 18" alloys. The handsome multi-spoke wheels immediately have a positive effect on the Galant's large flat surfaces. The only touch I would have added, removed in fact, is about 15 mm of wheel gap to accentuate the size of the wheels and to give the car a more aggressive stance. Next, an assortment of Ralliart badges on the door sills and grill are added. A small lip spoiler adorns the trunk lid as does a large chrome tailpipe. The bumpers are also specific to the Ralliart; they are two-tone in colour and the front one features a larger air intake opening.
 |
| The navigation system resembles a television glued on top of the dashboard. |
The interior is also upgraded with specific trim and stitching. Included in the Ralliart package is a navigation system which sits atop the middle portion of the dashboard that looks strangely like a portable mini television. This is not the most attractive setup but it is functional nonetheless. Otherwise, the cabin is comfortable and large enough to accommodate 5 passengers. I had difficulty finding a proper driving position; the steering wheel does not tilt high enough nor is it telescopic.