Publication: Car Graphic
Format: Road Impressions
Date: January 1970
Author: “C/G Test Group” (uncredited)

Road testing the Mitsubishi Galant GTO MII

The Galant GTO series consists of three models: MI, MII, and MR. All three models share the same body, which is cleverly styled like a Ford Mustang shrunk to 1.6-liter size, but each has a different engine. All have a capacity of 1597cc (with a bore increased by 2.4mm over the Galant AI’s 1499cc, but a still-longer stroke at 76.9 x 86mm). However, the MI and MII are SOHC, while the hottest MR has a completely newly designed DOHC head. Output is 100ps/6300rpm for the single-carburetor MI (lower than the Galant AII’s 105ps/67–rpm), 110ps/6700rpm for the twin-SU MII, and 125ps/6800rpm for the DOHC twin-Solex MR. The MI and MII have the same 4-speed gearbox as the AII, but the MR model comes standard with a 5-speed and a torque rod rear suspension. Prices are significantly higher than the Galant Hardtop GS, at 786,000, 843,000, and 1,125,000 yen, respectively.

Publication: Car Graphic
Format: Group Test
Date: April 1971
Author: “C/G Test Group” (uncredited)

Comparison test: Mitsubishi Galant GTO MR vs. Toyota Celica 1600GT

Mitsubishi’s Galant GTO MR and Toyota’s Celica GT are very similar in both specifications and character, and are five-seater sports coupes that appeared at roughly the same time, targeting the same market. Both are equipped with 1.6-liter DOHC engines and 5-speed gearboxes, and there is almost no difference beween them in terms of external dimensions or weight. Structurally, both cars are very orthodox, with a monocoque hardtop body based on the chassis of a mass-market sedan (the GTO is based on the Galant AI/AII, the Celica on the Carina). Both have a conventional layout with MacPherson strut front suspensions and rigid axles at the rear, but the rear suspensions differ in design; the GTO series is leaf-sprung, and only the most powerful MR model has a torque rod added, while the Celica’s is suspended by coil springs, with four longitudinal links and lateral location via a Panhard rod.

Publication: Car Graphic
Format: Road Test
Date: May 1973
Author: “C/G Test Group” (uncredited)

Summary: Engine enlarged to 2 liters and 125ps, good low- and mid-range torque, easy to use around town, acceleration performance surpasses that of DOHC 1.6-liter MR except at highway speeds. Excellent 5-speed gearbox. Fifth gear can be used often, good fuel economy on the highway, average maneuverability despite 5J rims and 185/70R-13 radials, brake force greatly reduced, good seats.