D R I V E N

Every now and then, there’s a car that differentiates itself from all others.  Sometimes, one comes along that reminds us that not only Italians could build emotionally-attaching automobiles.  By far, the two best ones are the 90’s era Mitsubishi Galant GTi and the Ford Lynx RS.  Despite coming from two companies with remarkably different mindsets, the similarities are eerily obvious.

Show-Offs

The ribbed side panels and pull-type door handles of the Galant GTi are definitely a copy of Mercedes-Benz design cues of the era, and yet with the shark-like poise and aggressive aerodynamic kit, it leaves a lasting impression.

Drumming up the GTi’s revised look must have been a no brainer since most of the exterior parts are shared with the high-performance, rally-bred VR-4 of the era.  Still, most didn’t care.  It was the first to standardize familiar sporty trademarks such as 15-inch (195/65 R15) tires, dual exhaust tailpipes and a rear spoiler.  Let loose on the road, the GTi’s impeccable stance brought about stares from just about anyone.

Ten-odd years later comes the Lynx RS.  Unlike the GTi, the RS’s revised exterior isn’t a carry over of a previous design.  The entire aerodynamic package including the front and rear bumpers are unique.  And, it sure looks delicious.

The new look completely removes the Lynx Ghia’s pseudo-luxury trim and gains some sporty credentials.  Of course, since the range-topping 1.6-liter had 15-inchers already, it was just appropriate to bump up the RS’s wheel size by an inch.

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