My FH5 Log: Super Tito

The sixth-generation Mitsubishi Galant, in rally-bred VR-4 form, returns in Forza Horizon 5 via the Japanese Automotive Dry Season Playlist and now that I have it, it's time to get a hold of what's known to be my uncle's car from back in a day. Ah, memories...

The sixth-generation Galant was launched in Japan in October 1987 with variants such as the 2.0L-powered MX, VX, VZ, 1.8L-powered MS, VS, 1.8L-powered MF, GF, 1.6L-powered ME, GE, and G. Two months later, 4WD versions such as the 2.0 DOHC TURBO VR-4 and 2.0 DOHC VX-4 were launched and it has won the Japan Car of the Year in 1987.

This VR-4 version comes with the 4G63T DOHC 16v inline 4-cylinder engine that has a peak power of 177 kW (241 PS; 237 hp) at 6000 rpm and peak torque of 304 N·m (224 lb·ft) at 3500 rpm. It is mated with either a 4-speed AT or a 5-speed MT.

This was homologated for the Group A class, using the underpinnings from the Starion 4WD. From 1988 to 1992, it was campaigned by Ralliart Europe and it won three events courtesy of Mikael Ericsson (1989 1000 Lakes Rally), Pentti Airikkala (1989 Lombard RAC Rally), and Kenneth Eriksson (1991 Swedish Rally). Kenjiro Shinozuka pushed this Galant to victory at the Asia-Pacific Rally Championships in 1988 and from 1991 to 1992, Ross Dunkerton did the same thing. Tim O'Neil also pushed the Galant to victory at the 1992 American National GT Championship.

The LanEvo of the Showa era before the rise of the Lancer Evo, as they said. Anyway, let's give the Galant VR-4 a quick drive through the dirt, experiencing its rally-bred performance known the world over. Oh, and I'd better make my uncle proud while driving what used to be it. Get it? Anyway, let's roll the tape.

I did it for you, Uncle!

Enjoy your new ride!