What's New for 1998

SL and VR-4 models get a standard power sunroof this year.

Review

There are many competent sports cars on the market today. They combine blazing speed with deft handling prowess and often luxurious interiors. While they all compete within the same segment, most have a distinct flavor all their own. Unfortunately for Mitsubishi, the 3000GT is showing its age in this day of the sports car resurgence, and good looks will take you only so far.

The 3000GT SL is powered by a twin- cam 3.0-liter V6 that pumps 222 horsepower through the front wheels. With the 3000GT's mass, the SL gets to 60 mph in a somewhat dawdley 8.5 seconds, but it shines brightly in the braking and cornering arenas; all at a $10,000 price advantage over its more muscular brother, the VR-4. Additionally, the SL comes with leather seating, standard. The base model produces a measly 161horsepower and 185 foot-pounds of torque, hardly more than the base Eclipse.

All-wheel drive, a twin-turbo V6 and gobs of torque characterize the 3000GT VR-4. The VR-4 offers blistering acceleration, but due to its hefty curb weight, suffers slight reductions in braking and cornering ability over the more subdued SL.

Inside, drivers are protected by dual airbags that reside in a scooped and binnacled dashboard that could double as the interior of the Batmobile. Generally, ergonomics are good, but we prefer a more restrained driving environment. Our advice? Shop the competition.