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| Who would ever guess there's 315-hp and 274 lb-ft of torque under this little hood. Of course, if you're trying to keep up with it at the stoplight that's another story. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors) |
As exciting as the little drop top is to look at, the most intriguing aspect to its fun equation lies under the skin. Its sophisticated full-time AWD architecture complete with front, center and rear helical and electronic differentials - the middle of which is a computer-controlled Active Center Differential (ACD) while the rear offers Active Yaw Control (AYC) capability - is pulled directly from the Lancer EVO 8. It is complimented by an engine of the same 2.0-L displacement as the rally car but pumped up to produce an awe-inspiring 315-hp and 274 lb-ft of torque! While its horsepower reaches maximum output at 6,500 rpm maximum torque arrives at a low 3,000 rpm, making this drivetrain extremely tractable.
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| The Tarmac Spyder transmits its power through a 5-speed automatic with Sportronic sequential shifting mode. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors) |
Normally a manual shift transmission would be expected in this class of car, but Mitsubishi chose to show off its 5-speed automatic with Sportronic sequential shifting mode, a very capable gearbox that, considering the substantial output in question, might even improve acceleration.
It should stay glued to the tarmac - hence the grippy name - due to 19-inch alloy wheels supporting 225/35R19 tires at all four corners. The front brakes are discs of course, and use 4-piston calipers while the rear discs make do with two.