Mitsubishi Starion
The torque-rich evolution of Mitsubishi's pioneering 1980s turbo coupé.
- Power
- 155 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 7.9 s
- Top speed
- 134 mph
- Est. value
- $17k–$32k
About the Mitsubishi Starion
Introduced in 1982, the Mitsubishi Starion was a pioneer of Japanese turbocharging and electronic fuel injection. By 1987, the European and American markets shifted to the larger 2.6-litre 'Astron' engine, which traded the high-revving nature of the earlier 2.0-litre for significantly improved low-end torque and drivability. Often found in its iconic 'widebody' form with flared arches, the Starion was a formidable competitor in Group A touring car racing and SCCA endurance events. Today, it is a sought-after '80s icon, valued for its sharp wedge styling and mechanical robustness compared to its more complex 1990s successors.
Mitsubishi Starion specs
The Mitsubishi Starion produces 155 bhp (116 kW) and 284 Nm (209 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 7.9 seconds and has a top speed of 134 mph (215 km/h).
| Make | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|
| Model | Starion |
| Trim | 2.6 Turbo |
| Years | 1987–1989 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Japan |
| Production | About 50,000 built |
| Original price | About $20,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.6-litre turbocharged inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,555 cc (2.6 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 155 bhp (116 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 284 Nm (209 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 7.9 s |
| Top speed | 134 mph (215 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,325 kg (2,921 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 117 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 Starion worth?
A typical Mitsubishi Starion is estimated to be worth $17,000 – $32,000 (about £13,000 – £24,000).
Its original price when new was about $20,000.
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 Starion rarity in CarSpot
The Mitsubishi Starion is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 27 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 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 Starion fun facts
- The 2.6-litre G54B engine was one of the largest four-cylinder engines of its era, also seeing service in the Mitsubishi Shogun 4x4.
- The Starion was famously badge-engineered for the US market as the Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth Conquest.
- The name 'Starion' is officially a contraction of 'Star of Arion', though a persistent urban legend suggests it was a Japanese mispronunciation of 'Stallion'.