Before the Evo, There Was the Galant VR-4: Mitsubishi's Original AWD Turbo Sedan

" And for good reason. The Evo, which first appeared in 1992, became a rally legend and a tuner favorite. But five years earlier, Mitsubishi had already built the blueprint for that legend. It was called the Galant VR-4, and it was the brand's first serious attempt at a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive sedan built for the World Rally Championship.

The Galant VR-4 hit the streets in 1987, engineered to satisfy Group A homologation rules. 0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produced 205 horsepower in export trim and 237 in Japan. It came exclusively with a five-speed manual and a full-time all-wheel-drive system with a viscous coupling center differential.

Some markets even got active four-wheel steering. The suspension was stiffened, the chassis reinforced, and four-wheel disc brakes were standard. This wasn't just a family sedan with extra power; it was a rally car wearing a four-door disguise.

On the world stage, the Galant VR-4 proved its mettle with stage wins at the 1989 1000 Lakes Rally in Finland and the 1992 Rallye Côte d'Ivoire. But by then, the WRC was moving toward smaller cars, and the mid-size Galant had become too big. Mitsubishi didn't scrap the formula, though, they shrunk it.

The Lancer Evolution carried over the 4G63T engine, the all-wheel-drive system, and much of the chassis work. The Evo was lighter and quicker, but it owed its DNA to the VR-4.

Today, the Galant VR-4 is finally getting its due. As Lancer Evolution prices climb past $100,000 for clean examples, the Galant remains a relative bargain, good examples can still be found in the $15,000 to $25,000 range. But don't expect that to last. As collectors look beyond the obvious nameplates, this forgotten pioneer is gaining the recognition it always deserved.

It may not have the fame of the Evo, but it has the same heart, and it got there first.