Mitsubishi Starion
The Mitsubishi Starion is a turbocharged, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe that defined 80s angular styling, especially in its later widebody form. It remains an accessible entry point into classic Japanese performance car ownership.
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The Mitsubishi Starion was a turbocharged, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe sold from 1982 to 1989. Along with its rebadged siblings, the Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth Conquest, it was one of the first Japanese cars to combine electronic fuel injection with a turbocharger. Early models used a 2.0L engine, but most US-spec cars received the larger 2.6L G54B inline-4, with later ESI-R and TSi models adding an intercooler and iconic widebody styling.
Collectors are drawn to the Starion for its quintessential 80s design and engaging driving dynamics. The boxy flares, digital dashboards, and pop-up headlights create a strong sense of nostalgia. Compared to more common contemporaries like the Toyota Supra or Nissan 300ZX, the Starion offers a similar experience but with more rarity and a distinct character. The later intercooled widebody cars, often called "fatties," are the most sought-after by enthusiasts.
The market for the Starion remains relatively affordable. With an average sale price around $15,000, it's an accessible entry point into the world of classic Japanese sports cars. Project cars can be found for just a few thousand dollars, while the best low-mileage examples are just starting to cross the $20,000 mark. As prices for other 80s icons continue to climb, the Starion is well-positioned for future appreciation.
Buying Tips
- Check for rust in the floor pans, strut towers, rocker panels, and under the hatch seal. On widebody cars, inspect carefully under the fender flares.
- The 2.6L engine's balance shafts can fail and cause catastrophic damage. Look for records of a balance shaft elimination kit, a common and recommended modification.
- Test all electronics. The digital dash, automatic climate control, and motorized seatbelt butlers are all common failure points that can be difficult to repair.
- Inspect the turbocharger for shaft play and listen for unusual noises. Check for blue smoke from the exhaust, which indicates failing turbo seals.
Recent sales show prices ranging from $2,238 for project cars to $20,500 for well-preserved examples.
29 Mitsubishi Starion vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 10 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Mitsubishi Starion listings are for sale right now?
There are 10 Mitsubishi Starion listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.