Tuesday, October 31, 2006

Mitsubishi Ralliart Concept Drops in Sydney

SYDNEY, Australia — Mitsubishi Australia has unveiled a stunning concept based on its 380 sedan at the Australian International Motor Show here. The Team Mitsubishi Ralliart 380 is called a "concept for now" but may go into low-volume production, Mitsubishi indicated.

Mitsubishi RalliartThe supercharged version of the 380's 3.8-liter V6 engine, modified with local company Sprintex Superchargers, has increased horsepower to 308 hp and torque to 326 pound-feet, resulting in a 0-to-62-mph time of just 6 seconds. The quarter-mile is covered in 14 seconds. That represents a 31-percent increase in horsepower and 29-percent jump in torque over the Japan-built V6's standard output in the 380. The engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

The concept also has strengthened suspension and brakes to match the performance improvements made to the engine, and 19-inch chrome-finished alloy five-spoke wheels fitted with Goodyear Eagle F1 tires.

Exterior enhancements include a full body kit with side skirts, upper and lower grilles, and the obligatory twin hood scoops. The red-and-black color scheme of the exterior is continued on the inside.

The standard 380 sedan made its debut at the Australian car show last year but has seen sluggish sales since then.

© Source: original article on insideline