Cordias in Japan


	While in Australia Mitsubishi only officially imported the 1.6/1.8L carburated GSL and 1.8L ECI turbocharged GSR models. Mitsubishi's Homeland of Japan received a far greater and diverse range of Cordia's. When the Cordia first appeared in Japan it featured a Saturn 1.6L carburated engine which also had a TC04 turbocharged variant. Then a 1.6L ECI turbo version was released which upped power from the carby turbo's 78kw to 90kw. Mitsubishi then upped the power output again to 119kw with the Sirius 4G62BT 1.8 ECI turbo and then also the 2L 131kw 4G63BT engine was also made available in the Cordia line up. The Sirius 2.0L 8valve had numerous variants including 200HP and factory intercooled versions. (On an interesting note in Australia some of these factory mid-14 second Cordias made it to our shores as Highway pursuit vehicles.) Mitsubishi offered many different Cordia model variants. Naturally aspirated 1.6 and 1.8L carburated Cordia SR. 2L naturally aspirated Cordia L & SR-S. GSR & GSR-S models were available in everything from 1.6L-1.8L -2.0L turbos with a variety of different TC04/TC05/TC06 turbocharger's and the GSR-S also featured a very nifty looking digital dash. MMC also introduced 1.6/1.8L turbo models that featured factory bodykits and higher spec features and interiors. The XG Cordia featured an up spec velour interior, power electric options, japanese GT style mirrors and bonnet scoop and was available in 1.6 carburated NA, 1.6 turbo or 1.8L ECI turbo. The Cordia GT had a factory fitted bodykit which consisted of front/rear Starion style bumpers, rear rubber spoiler and GT badging. And came fitted with 1.6L carburated turbo or 1.8L ECI turbo engines.

Mitsubishi Sold road going All Wheel Drive Cordia versions fitted with either the 1.8L(119kw)or 2.0L(131kw) turbo engines. But in 1985 they also created some purpose built concept/race Cordia's which featured All Wheel drive, and used a highly tuned version of the Mitsubishi Galant's Sirius DASH 12valve 4G63BT 2L turbocharged engine making an awesome 250kw, advanced engine management and areodynamics. And electronically adjustable front and rear spoilers which years later found its way onto the Mitsubishi GTO(3000GT). "In 1985 Wheels magazine recalls a visit to Japan's Mitsubishi factory where they marvel at the site of this futuristic Cordia Supercar in the wind tunnel." Even though this Wild Cordia model would be as rare as hens teeth today. Much of its technology can be seen in current cars like the Lancer Evo's and GTO's.
Ever wanted a convertible Cordia. Well they sold them in Japan and Europe as well. The Cordia Cabriolet had a factory fitted colapsible roof and used the same 4G62BT 1.8L turbo engine as the Fastback Hatch models.

This information has been researched from the following material, Mitsubishi brochures, Wheels magazine, Go Car Magazine, MMC motorsports. And thanks also to the many loyal readers who have sent in articles,info and pics.
-Turbo Creations -M Drach 1997/2003