20^th February, 2001

Cabriolet adds new dimension of fun to Lancer

Mitsubishi’s cabriolet version of its highly popular Lancer coupe, being shown at the Melbourne International Motor Show from 1 March, was a huge hit when first shown in concept form at the Sydney show late last year.

The bright red coupe’s normal stylish lines, mechanicals and body kit have been enhanced with the addition of a colour-keyed cabriolet top. The conversion was commissioned by Mitsubishi from Advanced Vehicle Engineering in Melbourne.

The colour-keyed fold-down fabric roof ideally suits the lifestyle requirements of every young (or young-at-heart) person.

However, it is not only the change to the tin top that sets the Lancer Cabrio apart. It has a host of other desirable features...

Possibly the first things to hit consumers in the eye are the 16’ X 6-1/2" ROH Azzurro alloy wheels, fitted with 205/45-16 Bridgetsone performance tyres. Together with large twin chrome exhaust outlets, they add a distinctive look of `street cred’ to the car.

Inside, the cabriolet has been retrimmed and Recaro seats, Momo steering wheel and auto gear shifter have been fitted.

The Lancer Cabriolet would sell for approximately $22,990-$28,990, depending on the host model selected, or $29,990 if produced as displayed. What has not been made clear as yet, though, is whether the tastier Lancer is to be available through Mitsubishi dealers around Australia.

AVE’s focus on quality
Advanced Vehicle Engineering, the company commissioned by Mitsubishi to produce its stunning Lancer Cabriolet, was founded as a design and engineering company to support the automotive industry in mid-1997.

In 1999 the company expanded into automotive customising and modification, and has undertaken many successful projects.

Combining the talents of designers, engineers, sculptors and craftspeople AVE can produce either full size or scale models, and pride themselves on attention to detail and quality of finish. The multi-talented team is dedicated to the notion of innovation, evolution, new technology and the highest standards under the watchful guidance of managing director Manfred Leonhardt.