GT5 Transcripts/Mitsubishi Lancer 1600 GSR '73

The sporty feel of the Galant, which Mitsubishi had been polishing since its inception, culminated in the August 1973 release of the Lancer 1600GSR. While even the 1.2L, 69 BHP base model boasted impressive handling, the 1.6L SOHC version's performance was a marked improvement. At the time, squeezing 108 BHP from such a small engine was revolutionary.
The engine was a culmination of technology developed at the Mitsubishi Kyoto Research Institute. It was able to accelerate without delay from any rev range when floored, and combined with the 5 speed MT, which was still rare at the time, allowed it to be driven under any condition. Its handling was excellent. The compact body less than 13.1 ft long, and the 825kg lightweight body was a great advantage, and it had ideal characteristics for drifting.
While the chassis design was nothing new, its exceptional balance allowed drivers to go into corners with confidence.
It was a prime example proving that a well designed rigid axle could outperform independent suspension.
The 1600GSR was intended for use in rallying from the outset, and was designed as a base car. Because of this, the body was made available only in a 2 door. The functional, passenger car duties of 4 doors were passed on to the 1600GSL which produced 10 BHP less from the same engine.
Because the curved wings and tight waistline design (that sprung upwards towards the rear) was reminiscent of the coke-bottle shape of the Ford Escort (which was undefeated in the rally world at the time), the 1600GSR was well received by all young car fanatics. And this 1600GSR marked the first page in the glorious history of Mitsubishi Rally cars, later carried on to the Lancer Evolution.
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