History has lost the all-wheel-drive diesel sports coupe.
Name: Mitsubishi Concept-RA
Launched:January 2008, North American International Auto Show in Detroit
Specifications:2.2-liter turbodiesel with 201 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque (420 Newton-meters). Dual-clutch automatic transmission, all wheel drive, 21-inch wheels
Why It Matters Now:
The concept has a lot to offer, from its attractive body made of plastic resin to the unusual diesel engine that is typical for a sports car.
The RA is a prime example that Mitsubishi used to make cool cars for enthusiasts. The two-door coupe was a concept. It featured the intriguing idea of a sports car with an AWD system that was inherited from the Lancer Evolution.
The Concept-RA was equipped with a number of features, including Mitsubishi’s own Active Steering which automatically adjusts the front wheel’s turn angle based upon the vehicle’s speed. The Concept-RA also featured the Super-All Wheel Control, (S-AWC), which was derived from the Lancer Evolution X was the acronym for active center differential, active stability control and active yaw control.
The Concept-RA featured a turbodiesel 2.2 liter four-cylinder engine with direct injector and variable valve timing. Mitsubishi played the eco-friendly game and promised low emissions, a healthy output of 201 horsepower and 310 lb/ft (420Nm). Plastic resin was used to make some body panels, which were then placed on top of an aluminium space frame. This helped reduce fuel consumption and improve performance.
There’s also the styling. It’s not too bad even for today’s standards. The Concept-RA was unveiled over 11 years ago. With a few minor changes, it could be placed right next to an Audi GT, an Alpine A110, and a Porsche Cayman. The two cannon-shaped exhaust tips and the center-lock 21-wheels are stunning.
Even though the interior looks quite good a decade later than it did a decade ago, the digital instrument cluster is a little too busy. The minimalist design has stood the test of time, and we would be happy with a production version that looked a lot like this. Although this car is not a supercar due to its four-cylinder engine, the scissor doors make it look good enough for a showcar.
Mitsubishi recently explained why the death of its sports cars is so serious and why there are very few chances of seeing a replacement. Although the “Evo” badge may return someday, it is most likely for an SUV.