The first-gen Lancer was launched to expand the Mitsubishi range in early 1973. At the time, this rear-wheel drive compact sedan was just 4 metre/157 in.-long, smaller than the Galant. Several bodies were available: two 2 or 4-door sedans and an estate, while this sportier GS-R version, released at the end of 1973, was only available with two doors and received a 1.6-litre engine.