The FTO was launched in 1994 when it won Japanese car of the year. Mitsubishi developed it using their latest techniques to give it a state of the art chassis and body along with a technologically advanced engine.

There are a number of different models available - these are as follows:

The GS This has a 1.8 litre 16v engine and comes with virtually no aerodynamics, 15" steel wheels and is very basic in the way of equipment.

The GR This has a 2.0 litre V6 24v engine and gives about 180bhp. It has the same wheels as the GS, but comes with electric folding mirrors and climate control. It is more often than not found with alloy wheels and GPX aerodynamics added. Other versions of this include the GX which is the same as a GPX but with the same engine as the GR.

The GPX This has a 2.0 litre V6 24v Mivec engine giving about 200bhp/ It comes with full aerodynamic body kit as standard and slightly bigger discs than the other models. Specification is as follows:

2.0 Twin Cam V6 DOHC MIVEC engine.
Climate Control
Power Steering
Electric Windows
Alloy Wheels
ABS
Full Aerodynamic kit

0-60 in 6.8 seconds
200 bhp

The engine system is designed to give low down torque response (under 5500rpm) and high end power (over 5500rpm - 8500rpm). Although the car is 2WD, the excellent handling means that it is difficult to believe that it doesn't have a 4WD system. The engine sound is legendary - although at high speeds on windy roads, the noice can drown out the stereo.

The GP version R This is the same as the GPX but with a revised rear spoiler and interior. In an effort to reduce weight, this version has no climate control, less soundproofing and the mirrors are not electric. This version is also available as an aero series - this is the same but with a keyless entry system.