Mitsubishi (1991) |
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Mitsubishi (1991) |
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| 1991 |
| Mitsubishi Lancer & Galant |
| M. Hales |
| Having raced the Starion in the 2 litre class of the BTCC in 1990, Mark Hales elected to switch to front wheel drive for the 1991 season. The decision was made to go for the 'Liftback' variant of the Mitsubishi Lancer, based on the fact that the bodyshell fitted all the criteria of the regulations and would also readily accept the 2.0 litre, 16 valve engine from the Galant. The engine was known to have the power required to be competitive. Although dimensionally correct the Lancer was quite narrow, and whilst quick in a straight line proved a bit of a handful whilst negotiating bends, due to excessive body roll. Any attempt to stiffen the suspension only resulted in inducing traction problems. | 
Mark Hales - 1991 Mitsubishi Lancer |
Mark Hales - 1991 Mitsubishi Galant |
Consequently, midway during the season, the brave decision was made to change models to the larger Galant. The new machine was built in a very short time, and although Mitsubishi missed two meetings (Brands Hatch & Snetterton) they were ready for the Donington Park 'double header' rounds in July. Hales noticed an almost immediate improvement, the Galant was more stable in the corners, allegedly due to the extra one and a quarter inches of width (compared with the Lancer). The new set up enabled the team to battle for mid-field placings for the rest of the season but the car was also prone to retirements. Hales best position was an 11th place during the second meeting of the year at Thruxton, in September. He eventually finished the season in 22nd place in the drivers championship. At best it was a tough year for the hard working little team, and Mitsubishi did not re-enter the BTCC for 1992. |
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