Conquest Mitsubishi Starion: The Hidden Gem No Car Enthusiast Should Know About

If you’re a hidden gem of the automotive world, the Conquest Mitsubishi Starion is your next discovery. Deserving its place among the most underrated sports cars of the late ’80s, the Starion blends rugged style, impressive performance, and vintage charm in a package few realize exists outside enthusiast circles. For car lovers who appreciate rare, capable machines, this Japanese sports coupe is far more than just forgotten kit—making it a must-know hidden gem no car enthusiast should overlook.

What Is the Mitsubishi Starion?

Understanding the Context

The Mitsubishi Starion emerged in 1985 as Mitsubishi’s bold entry into the sports coupe segment, designed to rival European hot hatches and rear-engine sports models. Built on the platform of the mid-sized Mirage/C36, the Starion replaced the iconic Mitsubishi Galant RS Turbo in Japan but found broader appeal overseas, particularly in the U.S. and Europe. Though production ended in 1988, a unique chapter unfolded with Conquest, a boutique company that reimagined these rare machines for a new generation.

Why Conquest Mitsubishi Starion Stands Out

While standard Starions feature Mitsubishi’s inline-4 engine and sport-tuned suspension, the Conquest variant takes refinement and performance to another level. These cars are certified as “origin-certified” hot rods—meaning they’re built with factory parts sourced from original production models, ensuring authenticity lovers will recognize the pedigree. The result: a pure, unmodded driving experience that captures the essence of a 1980s sports coupe, enhanced with modern readiness.

Key Features of the Conquest Mitsubishi Starion

Key Insights

  • Raw Performance: Powering most models with Mitsubishi’s reliable but responsive 1.6L NA four-cylinder engine (or upgraded variants in rare editions), delivering sharp acceleration and balanced handling.
  • Legacy Design with Modern Touches: The iconic fastback silhouette remains, now paired with upgraded suspension, better brakes, and lightweight composites—keeping it thrilling yet practical.
  • Authenticity Meets Convenience: Conquest restores each Starion from original parts, including period-correct paint, wiring, and interior components, ensuring heritage purists will adore these restorations.

Why This Hidden Gem Matters

In a world dominated by flashy supercars, the Mitsubishi Starion stands as a quiet legend—underestimated yet supremely capable. The Conquest version revitalizes this dormant treasure for modern owners who value true performance over hype. Owning one means donning a piece of automotive history with modern dependability wrapped in vintage soul. No flashy specs or mass-market appeal—just pure joy behind the wheel.

Where to Find Your Conquest Starion

Because of its exclusivity and restoration expertise, Conquest Mitsubishi Starion remains rare and sought after. Availability varies, with projects often handed to enthusiasts who appreciate authentic Japanese sports cars. Popular enthusiast forums, classic car dealers specializing in rare imports, and niche auction platforms are the best places to explore genuine opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts

The Mitsubishi Starion, especially under the Conquest branding, is a hidden gem no car enthusiast should overlook. For those who fitness old-school sports cars and rare engineering, this car brings together authenticity, style, and understated performance in one of the most overlooked chapters of automotive history. If you’re passionate about the soul of the road driver cars once were, the Conquest Starion isn’t just an outlier—it’s a must-see marvel.


Explore, research, and connect with the Conquest Mitsubishi Starion community today—your next adventure starts here.