Mitsubishi GALANT (1988 - TO 2003)
MODELS COVERED: 1988-1993: 1.8 Saloon [GLS] / 2.0 Saloon [GLSi, 16v GTi] / 2.0 Five-Door 'Coupe' Hatchback [GLSi, 16v GTi] / 1.8 Turbo Diesel Saloon [GLS TD]1993-1997: 1.8 Saloon, Five-Door Coupe [GLSi] / 2.0 Saloon and Five-Door Coupe [GLSi] / 2.0 V6 Saloon [24v]1997 to date: 2.0 Saloon, Estate [GLX, GLS] / 2.4 Saloon, Estate [GDI] / 2.5 V6 Saloon, Estate [GLSi, Sport]
BY JONATHAN CROUCH
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These are cars that can be placed in that file labelled 'but what do they look like?' That's a shame, as
Mitsubishi's Galant, in every guise so far produced, has proved to be a capable design deserving of far more success than was actually achieved. Recently lifted import restrictions held back sales, of course, but helped ensure stronger residual values than more common rivals. Restrained styling didn't help much either, because the Galant had to battle far more charismatic European competitors. A new model, released in early 1997, at last gained distinctive styling and the UK importer reckons this plus price cuts announced at the end of 1999 have changed the Galant's image from forgettable to desirable. The latest shape is on the used market in relatively small numbers but sufficient to give some much-needed zest to Mitsubishi's reliable and long-lasting image.
With all three generations, an understated look, which is good for some and not good enough for others. If you want to be noticed, you're better off looking elsewhere. Even the performance models are hardly attention grabbers in the way, say, a Sierra Sapphire Cosworth once was. What you will get is legendary reliability, great build-quality, lots of equipment and a comfortable family car, whatever the model. Few were sold as rep transport or rentals so the majority come from private owners or careful company executives.
Mostly private buyers tend to look after these cars so you might find a few good early 1988 to 1993 generation examples in private sales but be careful. At the upper end of that scale, you'll find a 93k 1.8-litre saloon for around £600 or the same-plate two-litre automatic Coupe for about £200 more. The 1993 to 1997 models are all relatively straightforward. Early 1993 cars start at under £1,200 but may be hard to find.
Try something like a 1996 N-plate 1.8 saloon at around £1,600 or the same model as a five-door Coupe for about £1,700. The 1997 to 1999 latest-shape models are barely distinguishable from the facelift range launched late in 1999 and you can get behind the wheel of a well-equipped two-litre 97P GLS saloon for around £2,700, well below the £17,000 it cost new. Prices range up to about £4,200 for a 99V.
Another £100 or so should buy one with air conditioning instead of an electric sunroof while automatic transmission adds another £100-£300. Estates replaced the five-door Coupe in this generation and prices start at about £2,800 for two-litre examples, again on 97P plates. Want more power? Theres a nice line-up of quite luxurious 2.5-litre V6 models starting at about £3,600 for a 97P cloth-trimmed automatic saloon (again, a fraction of the new price) and going up to about £8,300 for a 51-plate auto estate.
This is a bit of a difficult one as there's not too much to worry about which is excellent news for you. Do be careful of the technology on some of the higher-spec cars, particularly older ones. A four-wheel drive system with problems is not a pretty sight - the transmission is strong but it will have suffered if abused. Make all the obvious checks on any car for oil leaks and corrosion damage.
On the inside, don't forget to check the convenience features like cruise control, electric sunroof and air conditioning, if fitted. With the turbo models the rare diesels and even more rare VR4 V6s check for excessive smoke on hard acceleration - it could be a sign of over-enthusiastic use and poor maintenance leading to worn turbocharger seals. Generally, though, these engines are trouble-free if the oil is changed regularly. The 1993-1997 models sometimes have juddery or snatchy brakes and the occasional electronic gremlin makes starting difficult.
The complex V6s, in particular, are best bought with a complete service history.
(approx. - based on a 1993 Galant 1.8 - inc Vat) An exhaust system is about £550 with catalyst. A clutch assembly will be around £100 and an alternator should be close to £120.
Tyres are between £75 and £100.
This varies from uninspiring (diesels, 1.8s) to fun (16v two-litre, 24v V6 and twin-turbo VR4). If you want a comfortable family car that's not going to give any trouble, a Galant should be your cup of tea. You won't buy one to bring out the Jenson Button in you most Galants are bought by people who've owned other three-diamond cars and want to stick with the brand's reliable name. Who knows, you may end up aloyal Mitsubishi owner.
An honest car. You can see you're getting a thoroughly capable and reliable family saloon, hatchback or estate. Its one that will last, perhaps not forever, but at least long enough to give you years of diamond service.
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