Mitsubishi FTO

The FTO, short for Fresh Touring Origination, can quite rightly be described as having cult status in the UK and is adored by its passionate band of owners, many of whom have produced loving reviews here. In fact, as a cheap, modern coupe the Mitsubishi FTO has few competitors. The FTO was produced only for the Japanese market from 1994 to 2000 however this stylish looking coupe attracted huge interest in the Britain and subsequently sales of imports soared. The Mitsubishi FTO became the top selling Japanese import in the UK soon after it was launched which led to limited distribution via Mitsubishi dealers.

Mitsubishi FTO

  • Models and Style

    The name FTO harkens back to the Galant Coupe FTO model of the early 1970s. The 1970s FTO was a smaller companion to the larger Galant Coupe GTO.

    All FTOs were front wheel drives with either a 4 cylinder engine or a transverse mounted V6. The body only came in two door coupe version. The front bumper was changed in 1997 but the rest of the body remained the same. A convertible version was never made.

    For many the Mitsubishi FTO is regarded as the king of the Gran Turismo generation as well as a buyer power landmark in the UK. UK car fans were not going to be denied getting their hands on one of these even if the Man from Mitsubishi said: no. There are numerous second hand models available today.

    Black Mitsubishi FTO

  • Reviews

    Reviewers here simply adore the FTO. With its stylish front wheel arches and imposing frame, for many, it is one of the most beautiful cars on the market. There is something very simple and impressive about its design which some prefer even to the higher end sports models. The FTO also has a reputation for reliability and superb handling. One wonders whether the Japanese thought it to so good they just wanted to keep it in Japan?

  • Specification

    Basic features should include:

    • ABS
    • Electrically folding door mirrors
    • Manual air conditioning
    • Drivers airbag
    • tilt adjustable power steering
    • central/remote door locking

    UK-spec FTO GPX models were fitted with:

    • Fully automatic air conditioning
    • Leather rimmed steering wheel
    • Low-profile 205/50R16 tyres

    Some reviewers mention the interior being a little bit of a let down and slightly dated after the wow factor of the exterior. Specification varies due to many vehicles being modified.

  • Vital Statistics

    • Engine: 200bhp.
    • Weight: 1200kg.
    • Performance: 60mph in 7. 3 seconds.
    • Max Speed/Revs: 130 mph plus/7500 rpm.
    • Gearbox: five-speed manual or INVECS-II five-speed automatic.

  • Import Issues

    You have to be careful of import differences. For instance, the radio is limited. It works on a Japanese band frequency. Check mph dials as some importers stick a new mph face on the existing kmh speedos which can prove problematic for your license!

    Some FTOs may have been driven hard so beware. Look under the bonnet and make sure the car has been undersealed as Japanese models are built for a different climate.

    Initially, it was very difficult for owners to get parts for FTOs but in 1998 the FTO Owners Club was launched providing vital information for UK owners:

    • www.ftooc.org

    A whole industry has grown up around the FTO and there are now various specialised UK FTO parts suppliers, including:

    • www.japco.co.uk
    • www.camskill.co.uk