Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 E39A
The sophisticated rally-bred pioneer that paved the way for the Lancer Evolution.
- Power
- 195 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 7.3 s
- Top speed
- 130 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$25k
About the Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 E39A
The E39A Galant VR-4 was Mitsubishi's first serious foray into Group A rallying, serving as the mechanical blueprint for the legendary Lancer Evolution series. It featured a highly advanced 'Dynamic 4' system, integrating full-time four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering, four-wheel independent suspension, and four-wheel ABS. While its conservative styling earned it a reputation as a 'sleeper', the 4G63T engine provided punchy performance that made it a formidable competitor on both gravel and tarmac. Today, it is prized by collectors as a rare, tech-heavy alternative to the more common Evos of the 1990s.
Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 E39A specs
The Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 E39A produces 195 bhp (145 kW) and 275 Nm (203 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 7.3 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph (209 km/h).
| Make | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|
| Model | Galant VR-4 |
| Generation | E39A |
| Trim | 2.0 Turbo |
| Years | 1987–1992 |
| Type | JDM |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Japan |
| Production | About 3,000 built |
| Original price | About $21,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbocharged 16V inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 195 bhp (145 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 275 Nm (203 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 7.3 s |
| Top speed | 130 mph (209 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Four-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,475 kg (3,252 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 132 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 E39A worth?
A typical Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 E39A is estimated to be worth $8,000 – $25,000 (about £6,000 – £19,000).
Its original price when new was about $21,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 E39A rarity in CarSpot
The Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 E39A is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 45 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 E39A fun facts
- The VR-4 name stands for 'Viscous Realtime 4WD', referring to the car's viscous coupling centre differential.
- Only 3,000 units were officially imported to North America between 1991 and 1992, each featuring a numbered badge on the dashboard.
- The 4WS system allowed the rear wheels to steer in phase with the front wheels by up to 1.5 degrees at speeds above 31 mph to improve stability.