What is the rarest Mitsubishi 3000GT?
The rarest Mitsubishi 3000GT model is the Spider, the convertibile version built by American Specialty Cars (ASC) in the mid-1990s. Production is commonly cited around 1,500 units, which makes it the most scarce variant in the 3000GT lineup.
In this report, we detail how ASC transformed the Mitsubishi 3000GT into a limited-run convertible, why it remains so coveted by collectors, and how it compares with other 3000GT variants in terms of rarity and appeal.
What makes the Spider the rarest
To understand the rarity, consider the production volume, the unique conversion, and how few examples survive today.
- ASC-built convertibles: The Spider was constructed by American Specialty Cars under contract with Mitsubishi, not as a factory-fold model.
- Limited production: About 1,500 units were produced for global markets in 1995–1996.
- Convertible design: It replaces the coupe roof with a power-operated soft top and a tonneau, a configuration not offered on other 3000GT variants.
- Performance: It retained the VR-4 twin-turbo powertrain and all-wheel-drive layout, ensuring performance aligned with the era's top-spec models.
- Rarity in the market: Fewer than ideal supply today due to age, maintenance costs, and fading collector interest compared with more common variants.
These factors collectively explain why the Spider remains the most sought-after and rare variant in the Mitsubishi 3000GT family.
Context: other 3000GT variants
For comparison, the 3000GT lineup includes several other trims and regional variants, especially in the United States, Europe, and Japan. The VR-4 Twin Turbo offered top performance in a coupe form, while the base SL and their Dodge Stealth counterparts filled the more common end of the spectrum. Limited-edition or region-specific models are far rarer than the more widely produced trims, but none match the Spider’s combination of convertibility and low production numbers.
Market and collector interest
Today, collector interest in the Spider is driven by its rarity, convertible appeal, and the nostalgia of the 1990s performance era. While some examples remain daily drivers or show-car trophies, most private owners treat them as special-occasion pieces due to parts availability and maintenance considerations.
Summary
The Mitsubishi 3000GT Spider, produced by ASC in the mid-1990s, stands as the rarest variant of the 3000GT family, with around 1,500 units built. Its scarcity stems from a short production window, a conversion that created a distinct convertible body, and its limited appeal in a market dominated by coupe and turbo configurations. For collectors, the Spider remains a benchmark for rarity within the 1990s performance scene.
What is the rarest 3000GT?
The rarest configuration is the 1995–96 Spyder with 604 units made, and the rarest coupe is the 1998 with just 231 models produced, followed by the 1999 model with a slightly higher 287 total models made.
How many Mitsubishi 3000GT were made?
Approximately 86,151 Mitsubishi 3000GTs were made between 1991 and 1999, with an additional 65,303 Dodge Stealths produced during the same period. The total combined production of the two models is over 152,000.
- Total 3000GT: 86,151
- Total Stealth: 65,303
- Total combined: 152,454
How much is a 3000GT worth?
The value of a Mitsubishi 3000GT varies significantly, with the highest-value models being the low-mileage, top-trim VR4s and Spyders, which can range from $10,000 to over $70,000 depending on condition and model year. Lower-trim models in average condition typically range from approximately $1,000 to $7,000. Overall market prices can be around $23,133, but individual values depend on factors like model year, condition, mileage, and specific trim.
Factors influencing 3000GT value
- Trim level: The VR4 and Spyder models are the most valuable due to their performance and features. Base and SL models are more affordable.
- Condition: Excellent or concours-condition models command the highest prices. A model's value can also be heavily impacted by maintenance history and overall condition.
- Mileage: Low-mileage examples, especially those with under 50,000 miles, are worth significantly more than high-mileage cars.
- Model year: Later model years, particularly the 1999 models, can have higher values, with some examples reaching over $70,000.
- Location: The price of a 3000GT can also vary based on local market conditions and the vehicle's location.
Examples of 3000GT value
- VR4 Models: Prices can range from $10,000 for a non-mint condition model up to over $70,000 for a pristine 1999 VR4.
- Spyder Models: Prices can vary, with some convertible models listed for around $13,000 and others for as high as $29,000.
- Base and SL Models: These are the most affordable options, with clean versions potentially available for under $7,000 and high-mileage models potentially costing as little as $1,000.
What is the rarest Mitsubishi?
Introduced in 1990, the 3000GT (or GTO, in Japan) was Mitsubishi's flagship GT-style sports car for the next decade. It was produced in three series and featured a number of distinct versions, the rarest and coolest of which was the US-only VR-4.
