Mitsubishi Galant

The Mitsubishi Galant is a midsize automobile manufactured by the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.

1969

The Mitsubishi Galant was launched in 1969 as a two and four-door sedan, sold in some markets as the Colt Galant. It featured a choice of 1.3 or 1.5 L four-cylinder engines. It was sold in the United States as the Dodge Colt from 1971.

From 1970, a fastback coupé model, the Hardtop, was added. It was the first Japanese production passenger car without side pillars. The same year saw the release of the most powerful first-generation model, the GTO, with a 1.6 L, 125 PS engine.


1973

The second-generation Galant—in sedan and GTO forms—was more widely exported and was sold in Australia as the Chrysler Valiant Galant and in Europe as the Colt Galant. This model was more curvaceous, influenced by coke-bottle styling, and featured a larger, 1850 cc engine, as well as a new 2.0 'Astron' unit developing 125 PS. It was also offered as the Dodge Colt in the US.


1976

The third-generation Galant, dating from 1976, was divided into two models: the Galant Sigma (for the sedan and wagon) and the Galant Lambda (the coupe). The former was sold in many markets as the Mitsubishi Galant (without the word 'Sigma') and in Australia as the Chrysler Sigma (until 1980, after which it became the Mitsubishi Sigma). Strangely, in New Zealand it was badged as 'Galant Sigma' but colloquially referred to as the 'Sigma', a name it formally adopted after 1980.


Sapporo

The coupé was sold in Europe as the Mitsubishi Sapporo, in Australia as the Chrysler (and later Mitsubishi) Sigma Scorpion, and in the United States as the Plymouth Sapporo and Dodge Challenger from 1978 to 1983. On the Japanese home market, the car was known as the Mitsubishi Lambda. Initially available with Mitsubishi's Astron engine, the larger 2.6 L 4-cylinder engine was made a later option. Four-wheel disc brakes were standard.


1980

A substantial facelift took place in 1980, though the rear end of the wagon was retained. Mitsubishi officially considers this a new generation Galant. It was Car of the Year in New Zealand in 1981. Production of the wagon model continued in Australia till 1987, when the Magna wagon came on stream.


Lonsdale

From 1982 to 1983, some of the Australian Sigmas were exported to the United Kingdom with the Lonsdale badge, circumventing the voluntary 11 per cent market restriction adopted by Japanese manufacturers. The car was unsuccessful. For its final year, 1983 to 1984, it carried Mitsubishi Sigma badges in the UK before meeting its demise.


1983

A long-lived fifth-generation model shifted to front-wheel drive for the 1984 model year as a four-door sedan. This formed the basis of the widened Mitsubishi Magna in Australia for 1985, the same year in which Mitsubishi won the Golden Steering Wheel in Germany for the Galant and Wheels’ Car of the Year for the Magna. In 1988, the standard Galant was re-released in the New Zealand market as the V3000 with a 3.0 L V6 engine and continued alongside the sixth-generation Galant for many years.

1987

In 1987, the same platform was used for a sixth-generation model which adopted taller, rounded styling. This generation won Japanese Car of the Year in 1987 and the GS model became Motor Trend Import Car of the Year in 1989.

The Sigma designation disappeared but a new hardtop liftback model was added in 1988, called the Galant Eterna.

This generation was also sold in Canada as Dodge 2000GTX and Eagle 2000GTX.


VR-4

The four wheel drive, four wheel-steer 1988 Galant VR-4 (E39A) was a respected competitor in the World Rally Championship and the engine from this car, the 4G63 engine was carried over to the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution series of winning rally cars. The current VR-4 model still retains the four wheel drive layout and high-revving engine and is considered by many to be a serious sports sedan.


1992
1992 Mitsubishi Galant
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1992 Mitsubishi Galant

A new-model Galant débuted in 1992, available as a four-door sedan and five-door liftback (Eterna). A Japan-only hardtop model, the Emeraude, was launched in 1992, too.


1996

The eighth-generation 1996 model continued the 1992 design themes but a station wagon (known in Japan as the Legnum) was added. The liftback was deleted. This model won the 1996–7 Japanese Car of the Year award. Despite it being superseded in the US from 2003, it remains on sale in numerous countries, including Japan itself as of May 2005. This arguably makes it one of the longest-running passenger cars currently on sale in Japan, with the exception of luxury models such as the Toyota Century. The Legnum wagon (which has recently ceased production) was a popular car with tuners.


2003

The United States has had the sedan-only ninth-generation PS platform model since 2003, announced at the New York International Auto Show in April of that year, for the 2004 model year. Other markets did not see it till much later. One of the first markets outside North America to get it was the Republic of China, which launched the Galant Grunder in December 2004, with a (so far) unique front end. All new Galant engines come with new GDI or gasoline direct injection engines. Mitsubishi was the first car manufacturer to commercially use the GDI or stratified charge engine.


Near future
A 2000 Mitsubishi Galant ES
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A 2000 Mitsubishi Galant ES

It became apparent that the non-American Galants will get a front end that resembles that of the Lancer and Diamante. The new front end was designed by its former design chief Olivier Boulay. It is equipped with a 2·4 L engine producing 162 bhp.

The Middle East and eastern Europe will likely source its Galants from the United States from 2006.

In Australia, starting in the 2006 model year, Mitsubishi are selling a modified version of the North American Galant as the 380, denoting its 3.8 L engine. The 380 is a successor to the Magna and the Verada large cars that also formed the basis for the North American Diamante. The 380 is a crucial car for Mitsubishi because this is the car that will determine the future of Mitsubishi's Australian manufacturing operations. However, sales have been poor and within 3 months of introducing the model in Australia, Mitsubishi Australia have announced that production will be decreased and 250 staff at its factory are being laid off. This is 15% of the factory staff.


United States production
1996 Mitsubishi Galant ES (7th-Generation US Model)
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1996 Mitsubishi Galant ES (7th-Generation US Model)

In the United States, the Galant, along with the Mitsubishi Eclipse and the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser (the later two now discontinued), was one of the vehicles built by Diamond Star Motors, a joint venture between Chrysler (now DaimlerChrysler) and Mitsubishi, in Normal, Illinois. The plant has been wholly-owned by Mitsubishi since 1991.

The seventh-generation Galant's production was shifted to Normal, Illinois. The very first seventh-generation US-made 1994 Galant rolled off the assembly line on May 24, 1993. The eighth generation went into production there on July 7, 1998. The 2004 Galant began production on October 15, 2003.

Due to excess capacity at the plant, Mitsubishi will export Galants in 2006 to markets in the Middle East and eastern Europe. There had been a layoff at the plant in late 2004, and Mitsubishi hopes to utilize its capacity and rehire its former employees as soon as possible.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Crystal Mover Cars

The Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Crystal Mover Cars operates on the Sengkang Light Rapid Transit and the Punggol Light Rapid Transit. These cars have been operating since 2002 on the Sengkang LRT for testing and on the Punggol LRT since its operation in 2005. These cars spot all the features that of the Bombardier CX-100 Cars have. However, they sport a much more futuristic design (as required by the Land Transport Authority) to complement the futuristic new towns of Sengkang and Punggol. It has a fleet of 41 cars in total for the two LRT lines. Unlike their Bombardier counterparts, these cars cannot be coupled in pairs as the design of the Sengkang and Punggol LRTs does not allow for that.

A near identical version of the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Crystal Mover Cars will be used for the new Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain to replace their older Bombardier counterparts, which is currently under construction.


Specifications

* Configuration: Single-car
* Capacity (passengers): 105 (including 18 seats)
* Vehicle mass (t): 14.9/vehicle
* Vehicle dimensions (mm): 11840 long x 2 690 wide x 3 615 high
* Guide system: Side guide two-axis four-wheel steering system
* Electric system: 750 Volts Direct Current
* Gauge (mm) Gauge: 1 850, guide rail span 3 200
* Maximum speed
o Vehicle performance: 80 km/h
o Operation: 70 km/h
* Acceleration: 1.0 m/s 2 (3.6 km/h/s)
* Deceleration
o Maximum service: 1.0 m/s 2 (3.6 km/h/s)
o Emergency: 1.3 m/s 2 (4.7 km/h/s)
* Carboy structure: Aluminum alloy welded structure
* Traction motor: Three-phase induction motor, continuous rating 80 kW X 2 units
* Propulsion control system: VVVF inverter vector control (individual control of each axis)

(with variable load control and regenerative brake)

* Brake system: Electric command pneumatic brake with regenerative brake

(with stand-by brake and parking brake) (with variable load control and wheel slide prevention control)

Mitsubishi FTO

The Mitsubishi FTO, short for Fresh Touring Origination, was a car produced by Mitsubishi for the domestic Japanese market from 1994 through 2000. Announced in October 1994, the car was only made at the Mizushima plant and sold in Japan, though the tide of grey-market imports to the UK and Australia led to some limited distribution through Mitsubishi dealers in those countries.

In the Mitsubishi context, the name FTO harkens back to the Galant Coupe FTO model of the early 1970s. The 1970s FTO was a smaller companion car to the larger Galant Coupe GTO.

INVECS-II Sports Mode, Mitsubishi's answer to Porsche's Tiptronic, made its debut in the 1994 FTO. Production of both the FTO and GTO (Mitsubishi 3000GT) ended in the summer of 2000, when Mitsubishi decided not to modify either car to improve their performance on side-crash tests.


Models

All FTOs were made front wheel drived with either a 4 cylinder engine, or a transversely mounted V6. The body only came in a 2 door coupe version. The front bumper was changed in 1997, but the rest of the body remained the same. A convertible version was never made.


An electric version, the FTO-EV, was produced by Mitsubishi Motors in 1998 as an experimental vehicle. The car utilised high-performance lithium-ion battery power and set a multiple-charge 24-hour distance world record.




October 1994 - August 1997

GS - 1800cc 4 cylinder SOHC 16 valves producing 125bhp at 6,000rpm
GR - 2000cc V6 DOHC 24 Valve Multi Point Injection producing 170bhp at 7000rpm
GR Sports Package - 2000cc V6 DOHC 24 Valve Multi Point Injection producing 170bhp at 7000rpm
GP (1996-7) - 2000cc V6 DOHC 24 Valve MIVEC producing 200bhp at 7500rpm
GPX - 2000cc V6 DOHC 24 Valve MIVEC producing 200bhp at 7500rpm
GPX Limited Edition (1995-6) - 2000cc V6 DOHC 24 Valve MIVEC producing 200bhp at 7500rpm


August 1997 - July 2001

GS - 1800cc 4 cylinder SOHC 16 valves producing 125bhp at 6,000rpm
GX Sports Package - 2000cc V6 DOHC 24 Valve Multi Point Injection producing 180bhp at 7000rpm
GX Sports Package Aero Series - 2000cc V6 DOHC 24 Valve Multi Point Injection producing 180bhp at 7000rpm
GPX - 2000cc V6 DOHC 24 Valve MIVEC producing 200bhp at 7500rpm
GP Version R - 2000cc V6 DOHC 24 Valve MIVEC producing 200bhp at 7500rpm
GP Version R Aero Series - 2000cc V6 DOHC 24 Valve MIVEC producing 200bhp at 7500rpm


GPX Limited Edition

On 2nd December 1994, the Japanese Car of the Year Executive Committee announced the selection of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation's sports car FTO as the '1994-1995 Japanese Car of the Year.' The reasons cited for this selection were that apart from its superior performance as a sports car, the FTO had a good chassis function and used an advanced INVECS-II Sports model automatic transmission. In recent years award winners have all been sedans. The FTO is the first sports car to win this award since Toyota’s MR2 in 1984. To celebrate this award, Mitsubishi produced a Limited Edition version. This is easily indentified as it is painted Dandelion Yellow and sports a '94-95 Japan Car of the Year' emblems on the outer surface of the car's C-pillar. It also has a rear washer wiper and LSD as standard. Indications are that less than 500 of these were produced.


Nakaya Tune FTO

The Nakaya-Tune FTO was a limited car in early 1997, only 300 cars were sold. The car is tuned by Akihiko Nakaya, Driver of the Taeivon FTO in the Japanese GT300 series in 1998-1999 The main differences are Nakaya-Tune Sports Muffler (made by Prof), Nakaya-Tune Brake Pad (made by AP), Nakaya-Tune Carbon Fibre Lip Spoiler, Nakaya-Tune Suspension, Nakaya-Tune Shock Absorber (made by OHLINS)


Gearbox

The choice of gearboxes available to the FTO were a 5 speed manual or the INVECS-II Tiptronic gearbox, which is an automatic transmission that also allows gears to be changed manually. Earlier model tiptronics had a four-speed transmission, whilst the later model FTOs had a five-speed transmission which was also slightly stronger than its predecessor.


INVECS II

In simple terms INVECS II is a computer-controlled automatic transmission which has the ability to "learn" your driving style, using its Adaptive Shift Control software. As soon as you start driving the computer begins to monitor your driving style, and after a short while sets the up and downchange points to suit, thus smoothing out progress on the road. It's almost like having a person sitting next to you who, having seen how you drive, adjusts the automatic gearbox accordingly.

For the fully automatic mode to be in operation, the gear selector is simply left in 'D'. But if you want to use the manual mode - which gives the driver more control over the transmission, and allows higher engine revs in each gear - then the lever is slid over to the left into another gate, which is Sports Mode.

Now, tapping the lever forward prompts an electronic upchange, while moving it back downshifts. Effectively you have a clutchless gearshift, but you don't need to worry about suddenly being caught out at low speed in a high gear, because when stationary the transmission automatically reverts to first.


Production Figures

The FTO was made from 1994 through to 2001, with a revision made, commonly known as the facelift versions, in mid 1997.
1994 - Not Known
1995 - 9,741
1996 - 2,928
1997 - 1,960
1998 - 1,033
1999 - 616
2000 - 160


Miscellaneous

An FTO appeared in the movie Thunderbolt with Jackie Chan.

So far the FTO has only appeared in a few computer racing games: Metropolitan Street Racer, Juiced, Forza MotorSport, Gran Turismo 3, and Gran Turismo 4, the last of which features the GR, GPX, GP Version R and Nakaya Tune.

Mitsubishi Starion

The Mitsubishi Starion was a three-door, turbocharged four-cylinder rear wheel drive five-seat sports car that was in production from 1982 to 1990 throughout various locations around the world, and also marketed in North America as the Conquest under the Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth names. Although preceded by earlier turbocharged designs such as the Saab 99 (1978) and the Mitsubishi Lancer 2000 Turbo, it is considered to be one of the originators of the modern Japanese turbocharged performance automobile genre.

Background

The Starion's appearance in 1982 occurred during a period in which a number of Japanese Grand Tourer (GT) sports cars were increasing in popularity. It was launched to a marketplace against the other Grand Tourers of the era, including the Datsun 280ZX Turbo, Nissan 300ZX Turbo, Mazda RX-7 Turbo and the Toyota Supra Turbo. The Starion's turbocharged four-cylinder engine enabled it to be competitive in almost every category.

Yet perhaps the most notable feature of the Starion was the origin of the name. According to an apocryphal story, the car was originally intended to be named the Stallion, in accord with the equine theme that Mitsubishi Motors was using at the time (e.g. Mitsubishi Colt, Mitsubishi Lancer), but the name was recorded incorrectly due to the Japanese pronunciation of the letter "L". Mitsubishi Motors stated instead that the name was an amalgamation of the phrase "Star of Orion", and that it was related to the series of models with similarly mellifluous but meaningless names (e.g. Tredia, similarly contracted from "three diamonds", and Cordia) and internal combustion engines with similar names (e.g. Sirius, Astron) being introduced at the time. On the other hand, Mitsubishi subsequently named one model the Pajero, which means masturbator in Spanish, and other models the "Lettuce", "Town Bee", "Pistachio" and "McTwist", precluding any analysis of the reasoning behind their model names.

Despite the problems with the name, and subsequent poor sales throughout its production history, the Starion was received well by the motoring media who typically saw it as the harbinger of the turbocharger era.

During production, the Starion was produced in both a narrowbody and widebody design. The design proved durable, and few changes were made between models, with only simple improvements demarking the change from one model to the next. In the United States market, there was only one major change when the car was upgraded to the ESI-r (Conquest TSi) model, featuring an intercooler and five-bolt wheels replacing the four-bolt wheels it had inherited from the rear wheel drive Galant Lambda.

Without any obvious flaws, the design was not without drawbacks. At the time, Mitsubishi opted for the Mitsubishi Astron engine with a single-camshaft head (SOHC) rather than the dual cam head, and also for a throttle-body fuel injection setup which mixed the fuel with the air prior to entering the plenum chamber.

The design was somewhat unusual however, and didn't have widespread appeal. It may have been due to this factor that the Starion never brought Mitsubishi the success it desired in the marketplace to match the vehicles success on the racing circuit.

Production ceased entirely by 1990, and its successor, the GTO - was fitted with the mechanicals of the recently demonstrated Mitsubishi HSX Sports Coupe concept vehicle.

Many of the performance features of the Starion were integrated into later vehicles, and can be found in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution racing vehicles, in the Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 and the Mitsubishi Eclipse.


Models

A number of models existed throughout the world during 1982 to 1990.

Australia - 2.0 L 4G63 engine. Australian vehicles were mostly similar to the European TURBO specification. The J codes below denote the model version, and are found on the Australian Vehicle Information Plates.

* JA - 1982 - 1984
* JB - 1984 - 1985
* JD - 1985 - 1987

Japan - 2.0 L 4G63 engine, apart from GSR-VR which has 2.6 L 4G54 engine.

The Japanese Domestic Market had a large range of Starions to choose from.

* GX - 1982-1983 (non turbo)
* GSR-I,GSR-II,GSR-III, GSR-X, - 1982-1984
* GSR-II, GSR-III,GSR-X,GSR-V - 1985-1986 - can be distinguised from the earlier starions by driving lights in the front bumper
* GSR-V - 1986-1987 - some had Sirius Dash engine
* GSR-VR - 1987-1988 (widebody)

The Roman numeral after 'GSR' denotes the vehcile specification. Some examples can be found below:

* GSR-I - base model
* GSR-II - power steering and electric windows
* GSR-III - improved audio system, trip computer system, digital dash cluster, and air conditioning.
* GSR-X - leather interior replaced the cloth, climate control, air conditioning, cruise control

United States - 2.6 L G54B engine.

Mitsubishi

* LS
* ES
* ESI
* ESI-R

Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth

* TSi

Europe

* EX - luxury version
* TURBO - base model

With the exception of Australia, many models were available as either narrowbody or widebody shell styles.

Conquest

The Conquest was a version of the Starion sold by the Chrysler Corporation from 1983 to 1989. The Conquest was sold under both the Dodge and Plymouth names (much like the Dodge/Plymouth Colt twins) until 1986. Chrysler sold the Conquest under its own name from 1987 until 1989. The Conquest was replaced with the Eagle Talon/Plymouth Laser twins as the Starion was replaced with the Mitsubishi Eclipse. The Dodge Stealth can also be thought of as a Conquest replacement.


Overview

The Starion uses a FR layout - a front-mounted engine with rear wheel drive, which most sports cars use. Many came with a limited slip differential and anti-lock brakes (single channel, rear wheels only) as standard features. The entire chassis was derived from the previous high performance variant of the Mitsubishi Sapporo or Galant Lambda sports coupe, with a MacPherson strut front suspension and an independent rear suspension.

Engine capacity was 2.0 L with the now well-known 4G63 2.0 L engine, subsequently featured in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution series of racing automobiles. However, American customers received the larger 2.6L engine but without any additional horsepower. After 1987, European Starion models were also fitted with the 2.6L engine, and so was the GSR-VR for Japan. Both engines featured computer controlled fuel injection and turbocharging.

Horsepower varied between 150 bhp and 197 bhp depending mostly upon the turbocharger that was fitted, the presence of an intercooler, and whether the 8-valve or 12-valve head was used.

A naturally-aspirated version known as the GX was also built for the Japanese market, however production ceased in 1983 due to low sales figures. The Starion GX had no electric windows, no air conditioning, no independent rear suspension, no fuel injection and did not have power-assisted steering.

Seating was a 2+3 arrangement, although the rear seats are not too suitable for large adults. The front seats were adjustable for lumbar, angle, knee support, position and featured variable-angle side-braces.

One of the more unusual features was that the seatbelts were located in the doors for the driver and front passenger, and some American and European models featured electrically operated seatbelts.

A five-speed manual transmission was standard in most models, however, an automatic transmission was sold as an option in some markets.

The Cd or drag coefficient was around 0.32 - quite efficient for the era, and although quite angular, the aerodynamics in general were exceptional at the time.


Trim levels

Trim levels varied from country to country, however leather seats were common in most countries.


Motorsports

The Starion was a prominent competitor in motorsports up to International level during the 1980s and performed well on the circuit in Group A and Group N races of the era. Although not that commonly used in modern motorsports, a number are still raced on both circuit and in special stage rally events, usually by privateers.


Starion 4WD

The Starion was equally successful offroad, and found victory in Group A World Rally Championships and Asia Pacific Rally Championships, during 1987 and 1988. An all wheel drive version of the Starion was also produced for Group B specifications (one of the few Japanese automobile manufacturers to enter this class), but after an encouraging start as a prototype was not homologated before the FIA banned Group B cars for safety reasons. The Starion was converted to all wheel drive by adding a strengthened transfer case from a Pajero behind the transmission. This configuration allowed the engine to be situated well back in the chassis, for improved front/rear weight distribution compared to the Audi Quattro, whose configuration required the engine to be far forward in the car. Although the wheelbase did not change, the use of regular headlights rather than the production model's pop-up headlights allowed the nose to be six inches shorter, as well as saving several pounds in weight. Further weight was saved by the use of carbon fiber for the driveshafts, sumpguard, and lower arms of the suspension, and fiberglass for the hood (bonnet), tailgate, door skins, fenders, bumpers and spoilers, resulting in a final weight of less than 1,000 kg, lighter than the Audi Quattro. The car was developed with a turbocharged and intercooled version of Mitsubishi's 2.0L fuel injected engine, but the final goal was to use a turbocharged and intercooled 350 hp (261 kW) version of the Sirius Dash engine that Mitsubishi announced at the 1983 Tokyo Motor Show, which switched electronically at 2500 RPM from one inlet valve per cylinder to two. The car was campaigned for Mitsubishi by Team Ralliart in Essex, Great Britain, under rally veteran Andrew Cowan and engineer Alan Wilkinson, who had developed the Audi Quattro for Audi Sport UK.


Major results circuit

International

* 1984 Australian Super Touring Car Series Champion
* 1984 SCCA Nelson Ledge 24 hours Race 1st
* 1985 British Saloon Car Championship 2nd in championship
* 1985 Guia Race in Macau Grand Prix 3rd
* 1985 Guia Race in Macau Grand Prix 4th


Japan

* 1985 Inter TEC (JTC) 4th
* 1986 SUGO Group A 300 km Race (JTC) 3rd
* 1986 Race de Nippon Tsukuba (JTC) 1st
* 1986 Suzaka 300 km Race (JTC) 2nd
* 1986 All Japan Touring Car Championship 2nd in championship
* 1987 All Japan Touring Car Race (JTC) 1st
* 1987 GHiland Touring Car 300 km Race (JTC) 1st
* 1987 All Japan Touring Car Championship 3rd in championship
* 1988 Hiland Touring Car 300 km Race (JTC) 2nd

JTC=All Japan Touring Car Championship



Major results rally

Starion 4WD (1984–1986)

* 1983 Paris-Dakar Rally 1st in Experimental Class
* 1984 Milles Piste Rally (French Rally Championship) 1st in Prototype Category
* 1986 Hong Kong - Beijing Rally 2nd


Starion Turbo (1987–1988)

* 1987 Qutar Rally (Middle East Rally Championship) 3rd
* 1987 Kuwait Rally (Middle East Rally Championship) 3rd
* 1987 Rally Cote d' Ivoire (World Rally Championship) 4th
* 1987 Himalayan Rally 1st
* 1987 Oman Rally (Middle East Rally Championship) 3rd
* 1988 Scottish Rally (British Rally Championship)

Mitsubishi Sapporo

Sapporo was an export name given to the Mitsubishi Galant Λ (Galant Lambda), a large subcompact two-door hardtop coupé automobile built by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation from 1976 to 1983, named for the Japanese city of Sapporo, Hokkaido.

It was introduced in Japan in December 1976. At the time, Mitsubishi had the Celeste, a compact coupé version of the Lancer, and Toyota had its Celica, a coupé version of its Carina. Unusually, the Lambda was not strictly a coupé, but a "personal-luxury" sports car.

It was sold variously as the Mitsubishi Galant Sapporo or simply the Sapporo in Europe and South America. In North America and Puerto Rico, it was the Dodge Challenger and Plymouth Sapporo. Australia had the Chrysler Scorpion and later the Mitsubishi Scorpion. Asia tended to follow the Japanese naming convention.

Chrysler Corporation and Mitsubishi had an equal voice in the development of the Lambda, creating a good mix of east and west. Safety, comfort, luxury and economy were a few of the keywords in the Lambda’s design. The car used various versions of the Mitsubishi Astron engine.

Plymouth Sapporo

The Sapporo was marketed in North America as a captive import of the Plymouth division of Chrysler, who had bought into Mitsubishi in May, 1971, from 1978 to 1983 to fill an unoccupied spot in the US car market. Mitsubishi did not sell cars directly in North America at the time. It was identical to the second-generation Dodge Challenger except for minor details such as taillights and available colors; the Challenger was positioned to appeal to the performance market, and the Sapporo to the luxury market, even though both cars were mechanically identical.

Although the car received generally positive reviews, it was not overly successful in the United States. The discontinuance of the Sapporo after the 1983 model year helped make way for the products of the newly formed Chrysler-Mitsubishi joint-venture, Diamond Star Motors, as well as the entrance of Mitsubishi into the American market under its own name in 1982.


Styling

The Sapporo was meant to emphasize luxury; in the mid-70's, smaller luxury cars were a growing fad, started by the Cadillac Seville. In pursuit of this idea, stylists turned the first Sapporos into genuine curiosities - small Japanese models tricked out like Detroit's fanciest personal luxury cars. They had frameless door glass, canopy vinyl roofs, velour interiors, "luxury" wheel covers with whitewall tires, and every possible power accessory inside. A common color combination was bright burgundy with white vinyl. A thick stainless steel targa band at the rear of the roof completed the package.

This over-the-top look apparently did not find great favor in the showrooms, because after a couple of years the Sapporo reverted to a more conventional import style - quieter colors, metal roofs, styled steel wheels on blackwalls, and much less trim. Luxurious touches continued to be supplied, however, particularly in the interior. Courtesy lights were everywhere, the fuse box had a fuse test light built in, storage spaces were supplied under the seat and in the console as well as the glove compartment. Mitsubishi drew on its electronics divisions to introduce details such as a high quality stereo with an "invisible radio antenna" built into the trunk lid. The car quickly gained a reputation as both fun to drive and stoutly built, although correspondingly slightly heavier than the competition, and developed a bit of a cult following.


Mechanicals

Although the Sapporo in other markets was available with a wide variety of engine options, including diesels, a number of normally aspirated gasoline engines, and a turbocharged 2.0L engine in the top model which also featured independent rear suspension (retained in the Dodge Conquest/Mitsubishi Starion two seat sport coupe, based on the same platform). In the North American market, the Sapporo was only available in one basic configuration, which combined the close-ratio transmission of the turbocharged version, the live axle (not independent) rear suspension of the lower performance versions, and a very large 2.6 liter normally aspirated four cylinder engine. Rear disc brakes and alloy wheels were available as a package in the US, but not separately. Other US options were minimal; air conditioning, cassette player, automatic transmission, cruise control, power door locks and power windows, and a moonroof.


Engine

The Sapporo/Challenger helped introduce Mitsubishi's then-new balance shaft engine technology which minimized the inherent vibration of a large four-cylinder in-line engine, permitting construction of more powerful but still civilized four-cylinder engines. The Sapporo/Challenger (like the earlier Plymouth Fire Arrow 2.6) was sold in the US with a torquey 2.6L normally aspirated version of the Mitsubishi Astron engine. It was later adapted to turbocharged use in the more 'sporty' Dodge Conquest/Mitsubishi Starion. The United States passenger car version of the engine also featured a 'Jet Valve', which was a small secondary intake valve which enhanced swirl in the combustion chamber, allowing for burning of a leaner mixture. A similar engine without the Jet Valve was available in Mitsubishi-built trucks and in the Canadian versions of the Sapporo.

The engine, with iron block and aluminum head, developed a reputation for frequently warping and/or cracking the head, which became the car's Achilles heel. Because of its relative scarcity, rebuilt heads were rare and expensive, and new replacements, imported from Japan, were very expensive. In contrast to the newer designs appearing on the market at the time, the engine used a two barrel carburetor with vacuum operated secondary, rather than fuel injection. early complaints regarding drivability led to the manufacturer offering a drivability kit for the carburetor, consisting of a typical set of improvements for the carburetors of the period, i.e. larger jets to richen the fuel/air mixture and increase torque, a larger high speed enrichment valve to increase power at high rpm, and a vacuum delay to retard the operation of the exhaust gas recirculation system, as well as assorted replacement air bleeds which had minor effect.

The vacuum diaphragms operating the secondaries tended to fail after several years, and replacement carburetors were hugely expensive, causing many of the cars to be put to sleep. Aftermarket kits which adapted a generic Weber carburetor to the manifold were available for around $200, however, which made them affordable for not only restoring a malfunctioning car to drivability, but as a performance enhancement. Although the cross-sectional area of the Weber carburetor was not significantly increased over the stock carburetor, it greatly improved the performance of the engine; however as an older design, it did not include provisions for either the "Jet Valve" or exhaust gas recirculation systems.

Mitsubishi Magna

The Mitsubishi Magna was a large car built by Mitsubishi Motors of Australia. Prior to that, Mitsubishi, as one of Australia's Big Three automakers, did not field a full-size car to rival the Ford Falcon, although it did build the Chrysler Valiant after it took over Chrysler's Australian operations in 1978. However, to compete in the Australian market, a car's width is very important and the former Chrysler Australia engineers set to work on creating a car that would battle in the old Valiant segment.

The Magna failed to help Mitsubishi compete effectively in this niche and by the time it was discontinued, Mitsubishi had lost market share in the Australian car marketplace.

Model History

It was originally a widened version of the 1984 Mitsubishi Galant Sigma, featuring the 2.6 L Astron four-cylinder engine.

The first Magna, the TM series, was available as a sedan and a station wagon and had an identical profile to the smaller Galant. However, it was noticeably wider. The Magna was Wheels magazine's Car of the Year for 1985.
1993 Mitsubishi Magna - Rear View
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1993 Mitsubishi Magna - Rear View

The model was revamped for 1992 as a formal sedan and wagon version of the then-hardtop Mitsubishi Diamante. In Australia, the six-cylinder model was called the Verada, while exported versions to New Zealand wore the Mitsubishi V3000 badge. Some European markets received this model as the Mitsubishi Sigma—no relation to an earlier model that had this name.

In 1996, Mitsubishi released a third-generation model of the Magna, with the same bodyshell as the Diamante. A 2.4L four-cylinder and a 3.0L V6 were initially available in the Magna, while a 3.5L V6 was offered in the upscale Verada (many of which are exported as the Diamante to Japan, the US until recently, and other markets). The four-cylinder Magna was dropped at the end of 1998 due to poor sales. The Magna/Verada was again Wheels’ Car of the Year for 1996.


Troubling Reputation

Known as the "pensioner's car", the Magna was plagued by a number of image and mechanical problems. There were frequent and well publicised problems with the transmission system and engine. As a result the Magna had poor resale value. This made it unattractive to fleet buyers who generally use financial arrangements that favour replacing their cars every three to four years.

The worsening crisis engulfing Mitsubishi also helped decrease sales as doubts spread about the viability of the company.

By 2005, when production ceased, the car being offered to consumers was a ten year old model with a few enhancements.


Poor Sales

The Magna sold well for three years after introduction, but soon found its market share eroded by sophisticated offerings from competitors like Ford Australia and GMH-Holden Australia.

In response to this the 2003 models featured an extensive facelift styled by designer Olivier Boulay. However apart from cosmetic changes, the car remained the same. The result was that the vehicle was not well received by the Australian public and the media criticised the car. Inevitably, sales slowed dramatically.

An extended warranty campaign was launched in late 2004 to bolster sales of the Magna/Verada line. This helped reduce the number of stockpiled vehicles, an important requirement in the lead-up to the launch of the Magna replacement, the Mitsubishi 380.


Production ceases

Production of the Mitsubishi 380, a car based loosely on the US production model Galant with extensive re-engineering for Australian conditions, began in August 2005, bringing to an end the 20 year production of the Magna/Verada line. However, the Mitsubishi 380 appears to be faring poorly in the Australian market.

Mitsubishi Outlander

The Mitsubishi Outlander is a compact crossover SUV manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation. It is loosely based on the Mitsubishi Lancer platform, though its engine is derived from the Mitsubishi Galant. The Outlander's main competitors in the North American market are the Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Hyundai Tucson and the Kia Sportage. Secondary competitors include the Pontiac Vibe, the Saturn VUE, and the Ford Escape.




History

Designed by the French, [[Olivier Boulay]], the Outlander was First introduced to North America in 2003. The Outlander is sold in Asian markets under the name Mitsubishi Airtrek, while in Europe and the Americas, it retains the Outlander nameplate. The North American version is available in three trim styles: LS, XLS, and Limited (introduced in 2005). All trim styles have the option of front wheel drive or all wheel drive. The all wheel drive version uses normal ("open") differentials for the front and rear axles, with a viscous coupling unit for the center differential.

The North American version, however, only offers one engine type - a 2.4 L four cylinder engine which produces a maximum of 160 hp and 162 ft·lbf of torque. The Airtrek, on the other hand, offers the additional option of a turbocharged engine.

Another feature which sets the Outlander apart from some other crossover SUVs is its Sportronic semi-automatic transmission system (sometimes referred to as a Tiptronic shift system), which allows the driver to selectively shift gears up or down by pushing the shift lever up or down. This system has recently been used on many different types of vehicles, and is generally regarded as a good compromise between an automatic transmission and a manual transmission. The 2005 model year, however, introduced a 5-speed manual transmission for the LS trim.

For the 2007 year, the Outlander will be redesigned.




Second Generation Outlander

On October 17, 2005 Mitsubishi announced that its new Outlander crossover would launch in Japan that same day. The redesigned Outlander will start at ¥2,352,000 (about 20,545 US Dollars). The new Outlander will feature a CVT transmission with a six-speed manu-matic function, three row seating, split tailgate, and electronically controlled 4WD on a completely new platform.

Some new features include: new-generation platform; new lightweight, high-rigidity, all-directional impact safety improved body; new 2.4-liter 16-valve DOHC MIVEC engine; new INVECS-III Sport Mode 6-speed CVT; Electronically controlled 4WD; Active Stability Control (ASC)and other to-be-announced features.

Mitsubishi i

The i is a Japanese keicar model from Mitsubishi Motors. The showcar's premiere was at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2003. Another concept car based on the i showcar, known as Se-ro, was displayed at the Tokyo Motor Show in the same year. The i will be available in Japan starting in 2006. i stands for I(myself) and innovation.
Mitsubishi i
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Mitsubishi i


Description

The Mitsubishi i has a rear-midship engine layout and a 4speed automatic transmission. This, in conjunction with the very long wheelbase (2.55m) and single box design by Olivier Boulay, leads to a spacious passenger compartment compared to its competitors.

The 3-cylinder 4-stroke inline engine has a displacement of 660cm3, a double overhead camshaft with variable valve train known as MIVEC and a turbocharger with intercooler. It has an output of 47kW (64 horsepower).

With the engine Start-Stop-System the i is the first car in the world which fulfills the "3 litre" regulations for gasoline engines. This means the fuel-consumption is only 3 litres per 100 km or, in other words, it will run 33 km per litre of fuel.

It is expected that the i will perform well in crash tests because there will be no engine to intrude into the passenger cabin in head-on collisions.


Technical data

* Overall length (mm): 3395
* Overall width (mm): 1475
* Overall height (mm): 1600
* Wheelbase (mm): 2550
* Track Front (mm): 1310
* Track Rear (mm): 1270
* Tire Front: 145 / 65R15
* Tire Rear: 175 / 55R15
* Weight (kg): 900
* Seats: 4

Mitsubishi Colt

Colt was a name used as an export marque by the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation of Japan. Confusingly, Mitsubishi also offered a model in some markets as the Colt, usually denoting the export version of the Mirage.

The Colt marque was used principally in the United Kingdom, and phased out around 1984. In New Zealand, the Colt brand began disappearing in the mid-1970s in favour of Mitsubishi and surfaced as a model name only in the late 1980s and in 2003.

In the 1980s, Mitsubishi Motors Australia offered the original Mirage as the Colt, building it at its Adelaide plant. The Australian Colt was available as a four- or five-door with a 1.6-litre engine at the top of the range. It was sold as an entry-level model there and in New Zealand, where the second-generation Mirage was already on offer.


2003

In 2003, a new Colt was released by Mitsubishi Motors Corp. in Japan, with a design by Olivier Boulay and built on the platform of the smart forfour.

In November 2004, a 1·5 L diesel engine producing 95 PS was made available, with an option of the Allshift robotic gearbox.

In 2004, the Colt Plus was launched in Japan. This was essentially a longer version of the standard Colt, perhaps best thought of as a station wagon or MPV variant.


Coupe-Cabriolet

Mitsubishi released its new coupe-cabriolet to the Geneva Motor Show in March 2005, and the car is to go into production in early 2006. The car is jointly designed by Pininfarina and due to be built in Turin, Italy. It will have a hard-top similar to the Peugeot 206CC.

Mitsubishi Challenger

The Mitsubishi Challenger, called Mitsubishi Pajero Sport in most export markets, Mitsubishi Montero Sport in Spanish-speaking countries (including North America), Mitsubishi Shogun Sport in the UK and Mitsubishi Nativa in Central and South Americas (the Challenger name was also used in Australia), is a medium sized SUV built by the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation. It was released in 1997, and is still built as of 2006, although it's no longer available in its native Japan since the end of 2003.

Despite sharing the name with the Pajero, it's not built on the same platform, but rather on that of the Mitsubishi L200 pick-up truck and the second generation Mitsubishi Delica cargo van. It does share similar petrol V6 and Diesel I4 with the Pajero, as well as the Super Select 4WD system, but unlike its bigger sibling, it's not available with a short wheel base chassis, it has a base 2WD version in North America, and doesn't have the same all-terrain driving abilities, being better oriented for road use or as a family vehicle.

Mitsubishi Raider

The Mitsubishi Raider is a midsize pickup truck from Mitsubishi Motors the debuted in the fall of 2005 as a 2006 model. The Raider is built in the United States by DaimlerChrysler and is related to the Dodge Dakota. Engine choices include a 4.7 L PowerTech V8 making 230 hp and 290 ft.lbf and a 3.7 L PowerTech V6 which produces 210 hp.

The name is recycled from the Dodge Raider SUV sold from 1987 to 1989, which was a rebadged Mitsubishi Montero.

Mitsubishi Chariot

The Mitsubishi Chariot, or Mitsubishi Space Wagon was a minivan produced by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation of Japan from 1983 to 2002. Internationally, it has been sold under various names, including Mitsubishi Nimbus and Mitsubishi Expo. The Chariot has been licensed to other car manufacturers and sold under the names Dodge Colt Vista, Hyundai Santamo, Kia Carstar, Eagle Summit, Plymouth Colt Vista.

Originally designed as a compact minivan, it was about the size of the Mitsubishi Lancer and was powered by the same engine. However, as demand for larger minivans grew, Mitsubishi shifted the brand to a larger platform in the 1990s.

In its début year in Australia, it won the Wheels Car of the Year award for 1984.

The first generation of Chariot was produced from the mid 1980's to 1991; the second generation from 1992 to 1997 and the third and final generation of Chariot was made between 1997 and 2002. After 2002, the model was discontinued in favour of the Mitsubishi Grandis.

Mitsubishi 4G9x engine

The 4G9x series of straight-4 automobile engines is the latest Mitsubishi Motors design. All are 16-valve, though some use SOHC rather than DOHC heads, and some feature MIVEC variable valve timing.


4G92

The 4G92 displaces 1.6 L (1597 cc) and is available with either SOHC or plain or MIVEC DOHC versions.

Applications:

* Mitsubishi Lancer
* Mitsubishi Mirage



4G93

The 1.8 L (1834 cc) 4G93 is also available in both single- and dual-cam versions. Turbocharged variants are also produced. The SOHC 4G93 provides 86kw at 6000rpm and redlines at 6500rpm

Applications:

* Mitsubishi Galant
* Mitsubishi Lancer
* Proton Satria GTi
* Proton Putra



4G94
4G94 Engine in a Lancer OZ Rally
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4G94 Engine in a Lancer OZ Rally

The 4G94 is a 2.0 L (1999 cc) version built in Japan. Bore is 81.5 mm and stroke is 95.8 mm. It is used in the Mitsubishi Lancer. Output is 120 hp (89 kW) at 5500 RPM with 130 ft.lbf (176 Nm) of torque at 4250 RPM. It has an cast iron engine block and aluminum SOHC cylinder heads. It uses MFI fuel injection, has 4 valves per cylinder and features forged steel connecting rods.

Mitsubishi 6G7x engine

The 6G7x series is a V6 piston engine from Mitsubishi Motors. Three displacement variants have been produced with both SOHC and DOHC. MIVEC variable valve timing was also fitted. Modern versions feature a one-piece cast crankshaft and cast aluminum intake manifold.


6G72

The 6G72 is a 3.0 L (2972 cc) engine. Bore is 91.1 mm and stroke is 76 mm. SOHC 12-valve, SOHC 24-valve, and DOHC 24-valve versions have been produced.

The latest version is used in the Eclipse and Galant. Output in 2004 is 210 hp (157 kW) at 5500 RPM with 205 ft·lbf (278 N·m) of torque at 4000 RPM. It has an cast iron engine block and aluminum SOHC cylinder heads. It uses MFI fuel injection, has 4 valves per cylinder with roller followers and features fracture-split forged steel connecting rods.

Applications:

* Mitsubishi 3000GT/Dodge Stealth
* 1989–1991 Plymouth Acclaim/Dodge Spirit
* 1990–1994 Dodge Caravan/Plymouth Voyager
* 1990–1993 Dodge Ram 50
* Dodge Dynasty
* Chrysler LeBaron
* Chrysler TC
* Chrysler New Yorker
* Dodge Daytona
* Dodge Shadow ES
* 1992-1994 Plymouth Duster
* 2000-2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse
* 1999-2003 Mitsubishi Galant
* 1994-1998 Hyundai Sonata



6G73

The 6G73 displaces 2.5 L (2497 cc).

Applications:

* 1995-2000 Chrysler Sebring/Dodge Avenger
* 1995-2000 Chrysler Cirrus/Dodge Stratus
* Mitsubishi Diamante (American Diamantes always used a 3.0 V6)



6G74

The 3.5 L (3497 cc) 6G74 is a 24-valve unit available with either SOHC, DOHC, or MIVEC DOHC. Bore is 93 mm and stroke is 85.8 mm. Output is 205 hp (153 kW) at 5000 RPM with 231 ft·lbf (313 N·m) of torque at 4000 RPM for the SOHC, 194kW at 6000 and 324Nm at 4500 rpm for the MIVEC the most common 6g74 has an cast iron engine block and aluminum SOHC cylinder heads. It uses MFI fuel injection, has 4 valves per cylinder and features forged steel connecting rods.

Applications:

* 1997-2004 Mitsubishi Diamante
* Mitsubishi Montero Sport



6G75
6G75 engine in a 2005 Galant
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6G75 engine in a 2005 Galant

The 6G75 is a 3.8 L (3828 cc) version with 95 mm bore and 90 mm stroke. Output is 230 hp (172 kW) at 5250 RPM with 250 ft·lbf (339 N·m) of torque at 4000 RPM. It has forged steel connecting rods.

Applications:

* Mitsubishi Galant
* Mitsubishi Montero
* Mitsubishi Endeavor
* Mitsubishi 380 (175 kW @ 5250 RPM with 343Nm @ 4000 rpm)

Mitsubishi Sirius engine

Sirius is the name of one of Mitsubishi Motors' four series of straight-4 automobile engines, along with Astron, Orion, and Saturn.

4G61

The 4G61 normally displaces 1.6 L, but there are two distinct variations: An earlier version uses 3.03x3.39 in bore and stroke, while a later one has moved to 3.24x2.95 in. This engine was always DOHC 16-valve and used either ECFI or MPFI fuel injection. A turbocharged version was also produced for the Mirage. The 4G61 does not have balance shafts like the other 4G6x motors. Instead, it has different components, some of which can be used on the "Silent Shaft" motors.

Applications:

* 3.03x3.39
o 1989 Mitsubishi Mirage ECFI
o 1989-1990 Dodge Colt MPI
* 3.24x2.95
o 1990-1992 Mitsubishi Mirage MPFI



4G62

The larger 1.8 L 4G62 was an SOHC 8-valve unit for longitudinal RWD/4WD use. With a 3.17x3.46 in bore and stroke, it displaces 1795 cc.

Applications:

* 1988 Mitsubishi Cordia
* 1988 Mitsubishi Tredia


4G63

The 4G63 was a 2.0 L (1997 cc) version. Again, there were two different bore and stroke versions, and both SOHC and DOHC were produced. It is found in various Mitsubishi models including the Eclipse and Galant but also appears in Chrysler-branded versions of the Eclipse: the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser.It comes with either 6 (pre 92.5) or 7-bolt cranks.

Note that the 4G63 block in the Eclipse and Galant (and other Mitsubishi and Chrysler passenger cars) is not identical to the 4G63 block found in the Mitsubishi Mighty Max and Dodge Ram 50. The car-bound 4G63 has a bore and stroke of 3.35 in (85 mm) and 3.46 in (88 mm), whereas the truck 4G63 has a bore and stroke of 3.31 in (84 mm) and 3.54 in (90 mm).

Output for the US-spec 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is 271 hp (202 kW) at 6500 rpm with 273 ft·lbf (370 N·m) of torque at 3500 rpm. It has a cast iron engine block and aluminum DOHC cylinder heads. It uses MPI multi-point fuel injection, has 4 valves per cylinder, is turbocharged and intercooled and features forged steel connecting rods.

In the United Kingdom, a special Lancer Evolution, the FQ-400, produces 302.13 kW (405.2 hp), from a 4G63 engine. At 202.9 hp (151.3 kW) per liter, it has possibly the highest specific output per liter of any production engine.


Racing

Its turbocharged variant, 4G63T (also sometimes referred to simply as the 4G63), has powered Mitsubishi vehicles in World Rally Championships for years in the Galant VR-4, Lancer Evolution, Carisma GT and Lancer WRC04. It was the powerplant of the Lancer Evolution when Tommi Mäkinen won his four sequential WRC championships. The engine is also used in a variety of turbocharged 2-liter models of Galant and Eclipse.

Applications:

* 3.31x3.54 SOHC 2-barrel carburetor
o 1988-1989 Mitsubishi Mighty-Max
o 1988-1989 Dodge Ram 50
* 3.35x3.46 SOHC carburetor
o 1988 Mitsubishi Cordia
o 1988 Mitsubishi Tredia
* 3.35x3.46 SOHC MPFI
o 1988-1992 Dodge Colt Vista
o 1989-1992 Mitsubishi Galant
* 3.35x3.46 DOHC MPFI
o 1989-1992 Mitsubishi Galant
o 1990-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
o 1990-1994.5 Plymouth Laser
o 1990-1999 Eagle Talon
* Mitsubishi Starion (Australia)



4G64

The longitudinal 4G64 was the largest variant, at 2.4 L (2350 cc). Early models were 8-valve SOHC, but a later 16-valve DOHC version was also produced. All used MPFI with a 3.41 in (86.5 mm) bore and 3.94 in (100 mm) stroke.

The version used in the Chrysler Sebring/Stratus coupes produced 147 hp (110 kW) at 5500 rpm with 158 ft·lbf (214 N·m) of torque at 4000 rpm. The Chrysler version features fracture-split forged powder metal connecting rods.

Applications:

* 1988 Mitsubishi Galant
* 1988-1990 Mitsubishi Van
* 1990-1992 Mitsubishi Pick-Up
* 1990-1992 Dodge Ram 50
* Mitsubishi Eclipse/Chrysler Sebring/Dodge Stratus


4G67

The 16-valve DOHC 4G67 displaced 1.8 L (1836 cc).

Applications:

* Mitsubishi Mirage



4G69

The 4G69 is a 2.4 L (2378 cc) version built in Shiga, Japan. Bore is 87 mm and stroke is 100 mm. Output is 160 hp (119 kW) at 5750 rpm (162 in the Lancer) with 162 ft-lb (289 N·m) of torque at 4000 rpm. It has an cast iron engine block and aluminum SOHC cylinder heads. It uses MFI fuel injection, has 4 valves per cylinder with roller followers and features forged steel connecting rods, a one-piece cast camshaft, and a cast aluminum intake manifold. Applications:

* 2005 - Present Mitsubishi Eclipse
* 2004 - Present Mitsubishi Lancer (Available only with the Ralliart Trim Package)
* 2004 - Present Mitsubishi Galant
* 2004 - Present Mitsubishi Outlander

List of Mitsubishi engines

Mitsubishi Motors uses a simple four-digit naming scheme for its automobile engines:

* The first digit signifies the number of cylinders
* The second is the fuel type; "G" for gasoline
* The third is the engine family
* The fourth is the engine model

The first digit is sometimes omitted, shifting the entire scheme by one to make room for another character, such as "T" for turbocharged or "B" for second-generation.


I4

Mitsubishi has developed five families of straight-4 engines:

* 4G1x "Orion" - 1.2 L to 1.5 L
* 4G3x "Saturn" - 1.2 L to 1.8 L
* 4G5x "Astron" - 2.0 L to 2.6 L "Silent Shaft"
* 4G6x "Sirius" - 1.6 L to 2.4 L
* 4G9x - 1.6 L to 2.0 L

* There a future upcoming family of straight-4 engines in a joint-venture with DaimlerChrysler and Hyundai known as Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA)



V6

Mitsubishi has two families of V6 engines:

* 6A1x - 1.6 L to 2.5 L
* 6G7x - 2.5 L to 3.5 L

Mitsubishi Pajero

The Mitsubishi Pajero, known as the Mitsubishi Montero in North America and Spanish-speaking countries, and as Mitsubishi Shogun in the United Kingdom, is an SUV built by the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation. The name Montero was used because Pajero is slang for "wanker" in Spanish.

Thanks to its worldwide popularity, the Pajero (and Montero) names were also applied to other, unrelated models. The Pajero Mini is a keicar-sized SUV available only in Japan. The Mitsubishi Pajero iO (sold in Europe as the Pajero Pinin or Montero iO), is a smaller SUV, similar in size to the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V. The Japanese Mitsubishi Challenger was renamed as the Pajero Sport and Montero Sport in export markets.

First generation

The first generation was built from 1982 to 1991. It was available with a 2-door body on a short wheelbase or a 4-door body on a long wheelbase. Engines included a 2.4 L I4 with 82 kW (110 hp/112 PS), a 3.0 L V6 with EFI and 104 kW (139 hp/141 PS) and a turbocharged 2.5 L OHV diesel I4 with 62 kW (83 hp/84 PS) or an intercooled 70 kW (94 hp/95 PS). Non-permanent four wheel drive was standard on all models. It was later built under license by Hyundai Precision Products as the Hyundai Galloper from 1991 to 2003, and briefly exported to Europe.


Second generation

The second generation was built from 1992 to 2000. It retained the two body styles, but design was rounder and more city-friendly than the previous bulky model. The 3.0 L V6 gasoline engine was retained, now with a 24-valve head, capable of 136 kW (183 hp/185 PS), while the 2.5 turbodiesel's power was slightly increased to 73 kW (98 hp/99 PS). In 1996, the Pajero was slightly restyled, and larger engines were introduced, a 3.5 L V6 with 153 kW (205 hp/208 PS) and a 2.8 L SOHC turbodiesel rated at 92 kW (123 hp/125 PS). These versions introduced Mitsubishi's Super Select four wheel drive system, with an electronic transfer shift that could split power between both axles without the need to stop the car. It worked at speeds up to 100 km/h (62 mph).


Third generation

The third generation was introduced in 2001 and is still built as of 2005, having been restyled in 2003. This was the most luxurious of the three generations, moving to a more upscale segment to compete against the Land Rover Discovery, but more importantly, to counter the Toyota Land Cruiser's growth. The 3.0 L engine's power was decreased to 130 kW (175 hp/177 PS), and the 3.5 L engine was given gasoline direct injection, increasing power to 162 kW (217 hp/220 PS) in the Japanese market (export versions kept the standard EFI engine, now with 149 kW (200 hp/203 PS). The 2.8 L Diesel was retained only for developing markets, and was replaced by a new 16-valve direct injection engine, with 3.2 L and 120 kW (161 hp/163 PS).

In the North American market, due to the lack of a V8 engine, the 3.5 L engine was replaced for the 2003 model year by a more powerful 3.8 L unit, with 160 kW (215 hp/218 PS). This engine was later made available to a few export markets such as South America and Australia, and replaced the GDI V6 in the Japanese lineup in 2005. The short wheelbase model is not available in North America, where the Montero is the only SUV in Mitsubishi's lineup with standard four wheel drive. However, slow sales prompted the company to stop selling the Montero in North America as of 2007.

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation TYO: 7211 is a Japanese automobile company, manufacturing an extensive range of cars and trucks (see Fuso). Mitsubishis are manufactured globally and exported into most major markets, including the Far East, Europe, and the U.S..

History

Mitsubishi had been engaged in a long-term venture with Chrysler (now DaimlerChrysler), assembling a series of cars and trucks for Chrysler brands since the 1970s. Some Chrysler cars use Mitsubishi componentry, but have been gravitating toward more use of Mercedes-Benz componentry, which is considered superior. DaimlerChrysler recently announced that it was withdrawing all financial support and sold its shares in MMC. However, Mitsubishi will still be able to build the Dakota-based Raider and Chrysler will still use a Mitsubishi-based chassis for its Stratus/Sebring replacements.

For many years, Mitsubishi did not sell in North America under its own brand. That began changing in the United States in 1982. Many of Mitsubishi's early exports bore Chrysler brands such as the Chrysler Valiant (in Australia), Dodge and Plymouth. In some countries, Colt was used as the marque. Beginning in 1989, the Eagle brand was used for some Mitsubishi products in the US.

Mitsubishi has also exported car platform designs and manufacturing knowledge to Hyundai in South Korea and Proton in Malaysia.

Mitsubishi has a long association with movie star Jackie Chan. Chan always uses Mitsubishi vehicles in his movies.

Shareholders

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. 13.65%

Mitsubishi Corporation 13.42%

DaimlerChrysler AG 12.89%

Phoenix Capital Partners I Co., Ltd. 7.05%

Phoenix Capital Partners IV Co., Ltd. 5.64%

The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi, Ltd. 4.79%

Phoenix Capital Partners II Co., Ltd. 3.52%

Japan Securities Finance Co., Ltd 2.85%

Morgan Whitefriars Equity Derivative 2.22%

J.P. Morgan Securities, Ltd. 1.40%

Phoenix Capital Partners III Co., Ltd. 1.17%

The Master Trust Bank of Japan, Ltd. (Holder in Trust) 1.03%


Locations

* In Japan
o Shinagawa (品川) and Tamachi (田町), Tokyo (Headquarters)
o Tama (多摩), Tokyo (Design)

* Worldwide
o Trebur, Hessen, Germany (Research)
o Normal, Illinois, United States (Research)
o Cypress, California, United States (Design)


Plants

* In Japan
o Okazaki (岡崎), Aichi (scheduled to close)
o Mizushima (水島), Okayama
o Kyoto (京都)
o Konan, Shiga (滋賀)
o Sakahogi, Gifu
* In the United States
o Normal, Illinois (no longer shared with DaimlerChrysler as of 2005)
* In Australia
o Tonsley Park, Adelaide (Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited)
* In Europe
o Born, the Netherlands (Netherlands Car B.V.)
* In Asia
o Laem Chabang, Thailand (two plants)
* Joint venture and licensed plants
o Beijing, China (Beijing Jeep Corp.)
o Tiruvallur (near Chennai), Tamil Nadu, India (in collaboration with Hindustan Motors)
o Taiwan (China Motor Corporation)


Car models

* Mitsubishi 380 (2005 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Airtrek (2001 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Carisma (1995 - 2004)
* Mitsubishi Cordia (1982 - 1990)
* Mitsubishi Colt (1965 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Debonair (1964 - 1999)
* Mitsubishi Diamante (1990 - 2004)
* Mitsubishi Dion (2000 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Eclipse (1989 - Current)
* Mitsubishi eK (a Keicar)
* Mitsubishi Endeavor (2004 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Forte (1978 - 1986)
* Mitsubishi FTO (1994 - 2000)
* Mitsubishi Galant (1969 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Grandis
* Mitsubishi GTO (1990 - 1998)
* Mitsubishi i (2006 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Lancer (1973 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (1992 - Current)
* Mitsubishi L200 (1987 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Magna (1985 - 2005)
* Mitsubishi Mighty Max (1983 - 1996)
* Mitsubishi Minica (1962 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Minicab (1966 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Mirage (1978 - 2001)
* Mitsubishi Nimbus (1983 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Outlander (2003 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero (1982 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Pajero Sport/Montero Sport/Challenger/Shogun Sport/Nativa (1996 - present)
* Mitsubishi Pajero Mini (1994 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Precis (1987 - 1992)
* Mitsubishi Proudia (1997 - 2004)
* Mitsubishi Raider (2006 - Current, rebadged Dodge Dakota)
* Mitsubishi RVR (1991 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Sapporo (1976 - 1983)
* Mitsubishi Space Star (1996 - 2005)
* Mitsubishi Starion (1982 - 1990)
* Mitsubishi Strada (1991 - Current)
* Mitsubishi Tredia (1982 - 1990)
* Mitsubishi Verada (1992 - 2005)
* Mitsubishi Zinger (2006 - Current)

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Crystal Mover Cars

The Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Crystal Mover Cars operates on the Sengkang Light Rapid Transit and the Punggol Light Rapid Transit. These cars have been operating since 2002 on the Sengkang LRT for testing and on the Punggol LRT since its operation in 2005. These cars spot all the features that of the Bombardier CX-100 Cars have. However, they sport a much more futuristic design (as required by the Land Transport Authority) to complement the futuristic new towns of Sengkang and Punggol. It has a fleet of 41 cars in total for the two LRT lines. Unlike their Bombardier counterparts, these cars cannot be coupled in pairs as the design of the Sengkang and Punggol LRTs does not allow for that.

A near identical version of the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Crystal Mover Cars will be used for the new Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain to replace their older Bombardier counterparts, which is currently under construction.


Specifications

* Configuration: Single-car
* Capacity (passengers): 105 (including 18 seats)
* Vehicle mass (t): 14.9/vehicle
* Vehicle dimensions (mm): 11840 long x 2 690 wide x 3 615 high
* Guide system: Side guide two-axis four-wheel steering system
* Electric system: 750 Volts Direct Current
* Gauge (mm) Gauge: 1 850, guide rail span 3 200
* Maximum speed
o Vehicle performance: 80 km/h
o Operation: 70 km/h
* Acceleration: 1.0 m/s 2 (3.6 km/h/s)
* Deceleration
o Maximum service: 1.0 m/s 2 (3.6 km/h/s)
o Emergency: 1.3 m/s 2 (4.7 km/h/s)
* Carboy structure: Aluminum alloy welded structure
* Traction motor: Three-phase induction motor, continuous rating 80 kW X 2 units
* Propulsion control system: VVVF inverter vector control (individual control of each axis)

(with variable load control and regenerative brake)

* Brake system: Electric command pneumatic brake with regenerative brake

(with stand-by brake and parking brake) (with variable load control and wheel slide prevention control)

The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a two-door, four seat sports coupe/convertible that has been in production since 1989 and sold as 1990–2006 models. The Eclipse is produced solely for the United States market, where it has also been built as the Eagle Talon and the Plymouth Laser through Mitsubishi Motors Corporation's close relationship with the Chrysler Corporation (now DaimlerChrysler). Eclipses are popular among racers, ricers, and other automotive enthusiasts in part because of the car's low price and wealth of aftermarket parts.
Contents




Background

Mitsubishi's experience with sports cars starts in the early 1980s with the development and sale of the Mitsubishi Starion. Up until this point, Mitsubishi Motors had sold smaller keicars for the Japanese and American markets—although many were rebadged as American makes (such as the Dodge Colt). The Starion, similarly sold as the Chrysler Conquest, offered performance and features on-par with sports cars offered by Japanese makers with more experience in performance motoring. The Starion's main competitors were among the largest of the Japanese sports cars: the Toyota Supra Mk2 and the Nissan 300ZX.

During the Starion's production run (1982-1990), Mitsubishi had no other true sports car offerings for the American market. At the same time (specifically in 1986), Chrysler was discontinuing their Laser sports coupe, which was a rebadged Dodge Daytona.

Mitsubishi Motors and Chrysler founded a new production division, Diamond Star Motors (DSM) in October 1985. The DSM plant was situated in Normal, Illinois and eventually produced cars bound primarily for the American market. The first cars to roll off the lines at this facility were the Mitsubishi Eclipse, Eagle Talon, and the Plymouth Laser.


Models

The Eclipse has undergone four distinct generations: the first two (1G and 2G) are closely related and share many parts, whereas the third (3G) is based on a new platform and most parts are incompatible with 1G and 2G Eclipses. The fourth generation (4G) Eclipse was made available in June 2005.


1990–1994 (1G) Mitsubishi Eclipse, Eagle Talon, and Plymouth Laser


Overview

The first generation Mitsubishi Eclipse was sold as an entry to mid-level four-cylinder sports coupe. Four trim levels were available: the bottom three were front wheel drive and the very top was all wheel drive. The top FWD and the AWD model were equipped with turbocharged engines.

Although the car underwent minor changes throughout its production, 1993-and-later models have updated sheetmetal and are easily distinguishable from previous vehicles. The Eclipse was revised into a new vehicle for 1995 (described below in the 2G section).


Trim levels

The Eclipse was available in four trim levels during its first-generation production run. AWD models were not available until halfway through the first model year.

* Eclipse: Base FWD model equipped with a 92hp naturally-aspirated engine 1.8 L 8-valve SOHC 4G37 engine
* Eclipse GS: Upgraded FWD model with slightly more equipment
* Eclipse GS DOHC: Upgraded FWD model equipped with a 135 hp naturally-aspirated 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC 4G63 engine
* Eclipse GS-T: Top FWD model equipped with a 180-195 hp* turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC 4G63T engine
* Eclipse GSX: AWD model equipped with a 180-195 hp* turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC 4G63T engine

* 1990 manual transmission turbocharged models were rated at 190 hp, whereas 1991 and later manual transmission turbo models were rated for 195hp. Turbo models with automatic transmissions were equipped with smaller turbochargers and fuel injectors, and were rated for 180 hp for all years.

These models varied significantly in drive trains, available options, and—to an extent—appearance. The Eclipse GSX, for example, was sold with different plastic body cladding than the base Eclipse.


Drivetrain

The basic driveline layout of the Eclipse is a transverse-mounted 4-cylinder Mitsubishi 4G37 or 4G63 engine situated on the left-hand side of the car driving an automatic or manual transmission on the right-hand side. AWD models have a different transmission which includes a limited-slip center differential and output shaft for a transfer case, which drives the rear differential (also available as limited-slip) and half-shafts.

The 4G37 and 4G63 engines are both in-line 4-cylinder gasoline engines. The 4G63 is composed of an iron engine block and aluminum cylinder head and is equipped with balance shafts for smooth operation. The turbocharged version of the 4G63 (sometimes referred to as the 4G63T) is equipped with a lower compression ratio (8.0 vs. 9.0 in the naturally aspirated version) and oil squirters under the pistons in order to better cope with the stress and extra heat caused by forced induction.


Awards

The Eclipse Turbo was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1989 through 1992.


Timeline



1995–1999 (2G) Mitsubishi Eclipse, (1995–1998) Eagle Talon

Overview

The second generation car maintained the market focus of the 1G car, but had a major update in styling and had different engines between trim levels. New to the line was a convertible model, the Spyder.

The turbocharged motor was a more powerful version of the previous one (210 hp vs 195 hp). The non-turbo motor was a version of the Chrysler Neon engine, manufactured by Chrysler and delivered to and installed at the Diamond Star Motors facility.

The Talon was dropped in 1998.


Trim levels

The Eclipse was available in seven trim levels: Base(Only available in 1996.5 {mid-model year}), RS, GS, GS Spyder, GS-T, GS-T Spyder, and GSX.

2nd Gen (95-99) cars:

* Eclipse: Base FWD model equipped with a 140 hp 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Chrysler 420A engine

* Eclipse RS: Equipment Upgraded FWD model equipped with a 140 hp 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Chrysler 420A engine

* Eclipse GS: Equipment upgraded FWD model equipped with a 140 hp 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Chrysler 420A engine

* Eclipse GS Spyder: Convertible FWD model equipped with a 141 hp 2.4l 16-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 4G64 engine

* Eclipse GS-T: Hardtop FWD model equipped with a 210 hp turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Mitsubishi 4G63 engine

* Eclipse GS-T Spyder: Convertible FWD model equipped with a 210 hp turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Mitsubishi 4G63 engine

* Eclipse GSX: AWD model equipped with a 210 hp turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Mitsubishi 4G63 engine

The models had different trim accoutrements:

* Base - No tachometer, standard antenna, no driving lights, 14" steel wheels with covers
* RS - Tachometer, 14" alloy wheels, optional spoiler
* GS / GS Spyder - Power antenna, driving lights, cruise control, body coloured door handles, 16" alloy wheels, lower body cladding, spoiler, rear windshield washer (except Spyder)
* GS-T / GS-T Spyder - 16" Alloy 5 spoke wheels, larger spoiler (ONLY on 97-99)
* GSX - 17" wheels, larger spoiler

There was a freshening of the style for the 1997 model year. The front grille opening was made less 'classic' and more 'aggressive' with regards to the radiator opening. The slightly reshaped headlights acquired black areas internally. The driving lights became smaller and round. The rear bumper cap was altered and had the reverse lights moved away from their original central position, presumably to reduce the 'ponderous-ness' or the rear view of the car.

The Talon was available in four trim levels, Base, ESi, TSi and TSi AWD. The Eagle Talon saw its production end in 1998 when Eagle went out of business.

* Talon Base: Equivalent to Eclipse Base

* Talon ESi: Equivalent to Eclipse RS & GS

* Talon TSi: Equivalent to Eclipse GS-T

* Talon TSi AWD: Equivalent to Eclipse GSX

There were similar alterations to the styling of the Talon as there was for the Eclipse.

There was a unique version of the 2G Eclipse sold in some European countries. It used a normally-aspirated Mitsubishi 4G63 motor, similar to what was available in the 1G.


Drivetrain

The basic driveline layout of the Eclipse is a transverse-mounted 4-cylinder Chrysler 420A, Mitsubishi 4G64 or 4G63 engine. The Mitsubishi motors are mounted in the same orientation as for the 1G cars. The 420A-powered cars had the engine mounted on the right side of the car, and further back in the chassis. AWD models had a similar transmission to the 1G car.

All motors are in-line 4-cylinder gasoline engines. All have iron blocks with aluminum cylinder heads. The 4G63/4G64 motors retain the balance shafts for smoother operation, while the 420A does not use them. The turbo motors had an increase in compression ratio to 8.5:1 (from 7.8:1).


Brakes

The AWD turbo versions came with a brake upgrade to dual piston calipers and thicker rotors. ABS was also available on the non-turbo models.


2000–2005 (3G) Mitsubishi Eclipse

3rd generation: The Eclipse underwent a change into its current generation in 1999. The 4G63 was replaced by the less powerful and less durable (This is misleading. The 4G64 is very similar to the 4G63 sharing many of the same low end components. It’s displacement is more by .4L which makes it more powerful in NA form and has proven to be quite durable)4G64 in some versions and a V6 6G72 in others. Turbo modifications are offered by many aftermarket companies, such as Tearstone Performance Solutions *Tearstone. The AWD transmission available in prior versions was discontinued, ostensibly due to high cost and poor sales. This time, the Chrysler version is the Chrysler Sebring coupe, and the Dodge version is the Dodge Stratus SE/RT coupe.


2006–Current (4G) Mitsubishi Eclipse

Details of the fourth generation Eclipse were revealed during late 2003 and 2004, and the car was shown at the 2005 Detroit Auto Show. Features of the new model include a 263 hp (193.9 kW) 3.8 L MIVEC V6 and a 165 hp (123 kW) 2.4 L I4, both derived from the 2004+ Mitsubishi PS platform family, with which the Eclipse shares many mechanical components. Like the 2004 Galant, the new Eclipse is FWD only. The V6 produces 263 hp and 260 ft.lbf.

The fourth-generation Spyder (convertible) Eclipse will be released for the 2006 model year at the North American International Auto Show.


Films

Mitsubishi Eclipses were featured prominently in the films Some (1995 Coupe), The Fast and the Furious (1999 Coupe), its sequel 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003 Spyder), and The Last Ride (2005 Coupe).

Mitsubishi L200

The Mitsubishi L200 is a compact pickup truck produced by Mitsubishi Motors. The L200 was originally the import version of the Mitsubishi Forte, which had been produced since 1978. When the Forte was discontinued in the Japanese market, the L200 name took the Forte's place in 1987.

The L200 was available in three bodystyles; regular cab, extended cab (which Mitsubishi called the "Macro Cab"), and crew cab (which was not sold in North America). The L200 was sold in North America as the Mitsubishi Mighty Max and was also sold there by the Chrysler Corporation as the Dodge Ram 50. The Ram 50 was discontinued in 1993, while the Mighty Max lasted until 1996.

In 1997, the L200 became based on the Japanese-market Mitsubishi Strada and was redesigned again for the 2005 model year.

Mitsubishi GTO

The Mitsubishi GTO was originally launched in 1970 as a part of the Galant family (when it was called the Mitsubishi Colt Galant GTO) which was sold halfway through the 1970s and the GTO name would not return until 1990 as its own model.

In 1990, Mitsubishi developed a sport coupe to compete in the $40,000 class with the likes of the Toyota Supra, Mazda RX-7, Nissan 300ZX, Chevrolet Corvette, and low end Porsches. The car that resulted was the Mitsubishi GTO, and it reigned as Mitsubishi’s flagship sports car from 1991-1999. The GTO was named the Mitsubishi 3000GT in the United States and Europe in order to avoid confusion and anger amongst fans of the Ferrari GTO sports car series and the Pontiac GTO muscle car (most Pontiac GTO fans consider Mitsubishi's appropriation of the GTO name sacrilegious). Built in Nagoya, Japan, the GTO was also sold in the US by the Chrysler Corporation with its own body shape as the Dodge Stealth from 1991 to 1996.

The Mitsubishi 3000GT was built in three major versions: base, SL (Sport Luxury), and VR-4. Japanese customers also had special lightened and tuned-up MR (Mitsubishi Racing) versions of the GTO. The Dodge Stealth came in base, ES, R/T, and R/T Twin Turbo versions. The base versions of all model year Dodge Stealths and Mitsubishi 3000GTs from model years 1997-1999 were powered by a 3-liter naturally-aspirated single camshaft V6 engine that created 162 horsepower (121 kW). From 1991-1996, the base model Mitsubishi 3000GT used a DOHC V6 creating an advertised 222 horsepower, which created some difficulty for Mitsubishi in convincing customers to pay the larger price tag on the SL model. The SL (and Stealth R/T) was essentially a luxury version of the base model, with extras such as leather seats, sunroof, and for the Dodge version more detailed body styling. However the main difference was a DOHC engine that offered 222 hp (166 kW). The Stealth ES contained the more powerful (R/T) engine inside the less detailed (base) body, and was only produced from 1991 to 1993. All base, SL, ES, and R/T models had a choice of a 5-speed manual or an automatic transmission, and came with standard front wheel drive. The VR-4, MR, and R/T Twin Turbo models had a twin turbocharged version of the DOHC V6 that created 300 hp (1991-1993, 1994-1999 had 320 hp), all wheel drive, four wheel steering, and a Getrag 6-speed manual transmission (5-speed in 1991-1993 versions). The Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 also had an electronically actuated rear spoiler and a movable air dam under the front fascia from 1991-1996.

These figures yielded impressive performance: 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds, and the 1/4 mile in 13.6 seconds @ 100.5 mph according to Motor Trend. The car also had a very impressive 155 mph top speed. Unfortunately, due to the all wheel drive system, the car was also heavy at 3,700+ lbs. This weight kept the car from excelling in sprints, however, gave the car great agility in cornering and in harsh weather.

The car's underpinnings were essentially the same throughout its lifespan, but the exterior went through three alterations after the car was first released in 1991. The car went through numerous "facelifts" through the next couple of years, until U.S. production stopped in 1999 (the other 2 body changes were overseas). Production overseas continued, but no new models were available to the US directly. Mitsubishi's reluctance to create a new chassis for the car and the emergence of the well-received Mitsubishi Eclipse caused the GTO to be discontinued in 2001. The car continues to have a strong fan following.

Mitsubishi Carisma

The Mitsubishi Carisma was an automobile built for the European midsize segment from 1995 to 2004. It was co-developed with Volvo, sharing its chassis with the first generation of the Volvo S40, and built at the NedCar factory, in the Netherlands.

The Carisma was available as a 4-door sedan or a 5-door liftback. It featured gasoline engines from 1.3 L (introduced later in life) to 1.8 L, this one with gasoline direct injection. Turbo Diesel powerplants were sourced from Renault.

In spite of its name, the Carisma had a fairly neutral design, a characteristic that was not improved when it received a midlife refreshing in 2001. The car was placed between the Lancer and the Galant, but its placement in the Mitsubishi European range was taken by the former, after the Carisma's production ended.

In a few markets where the Lancer was not available, the Evolution version was rebadged Mitsubishi Carisma GT.

Evolution I

The Evolution I was introduced in 1992 to compete in the World Rally Championship. Using the VR-4 drivetrain, Mitsubishi put it in the Lancer (known as the Mirage in the United States) chassis, and sold it in GSR and RS models. The latter was a stripped-down club racing version that lacked power windows and seats, anti-lock brakes, a rear wiper, and had steel wheels to save approximately 155 lb (70 kg) less than the 2730 lb (1238 kg) GSR, while the former came with all of the conveniences of a typical street car. It came with Mitsubishi's 2.0 L turbocharged DOHC 4G63 engine producing 247 PS (244 hp/182 kW) at 6000 RPM and 228 ft·lbf (309 N·m) at 3000 rpm, along with all wheel drive which would become a trademark on all Evo models. 5,000 Evo Is were sold between 1992 and 1993.


Evolution II

The successful Evo I was changed in December of 1993, and was produced until 1995. It consisted mainly of handling improvements, including minor wheelbase adjustments, larger swaybars, bodywork tweaks including a larger spoiler, and beefier tires. Power output was increased to 256 PS (252 hp/188 kW) from the same engine and torque was unchanged for both GSR and RS models.


Evolution III

Once again the Evo II was tweaked in 1995 with most of the minor changes affixed to the previous model. Mitsubishi's goal for the third generation was improving cooling and reducing lift, and a revised turbocharger and increased compression ratio of 9.0:1 meant a 15 PS (15 hp/35 kW) boost to 270 PS (270 hp/215 kW). 7,000 were sold between 1995 and 1996, making it the best-selling Evo yet.


Evolution IV

The Lancer platform was completely changed in 1996, and along with it the Evo, which had become extremely popular throughout the world. A new twin-scroll turbocharger, limited-slip front differential on the RS model, increased power to 280 PS (276 hp/206 kW) at 6500 rpm and 260 ft·lbf (352 Nm) of torque at 3000 RPM, and Mitsubishi's new Active yaw control (which adjusted torque split individually to the rear wheels to minimize understeer) meant that the 6,000 Evo IVs produced all sold quickly. The Evo IV can be distinguished by its two large foglights on the front bumper, which would become yet another trademark of the Evolution series. This new generation marked the end of lightweight Evos in favor of more technology and power.


Evolution V

In 1997, the WRC created a new class, "World Rally Car", and while these cars still had to abide by Group A standards, they did not have to meet homologation rules. Mitsubishi completely redesigned the Evo IV with this in mind and introduced the Evo V in January of 1998. All aspects of the car were changed, most notably the turbocharger, brakes and cylinder bore (by 0.3 mm) that had both increased in size. Torque was increased to 275 ft·lbf (373 N·m) at 3000 RPM. Power officially stayed the same, at 280 PS (276 hp/206 kW) as agreed by Japan's automotive gentlemen's agreement that all cars would have 276 or less hp, but reputable sources claim horsepower was actually somewhat higher. More aggressive bodywork finished the package along with Brembo brakes.


Evolution VI

The Evo VI's changes mainly focused on cooling and engine durability. It received a larger intercooler, larger oil cooler, and new pistons, along with a titanium-aluminide turbine wheel for the RS model, which was a first in a production car. Also, the Evo VI received new bodywork yet again, with the most easily spotted change in the front bumper where the huge foglights were reduced in size and moved to the corners for better airflow. A new model was added to the GSR and RS lineup; known as the RS2, it was an RS with a few of the GSR's options. Another limited-edition RS was known as the RS Sprint, and was tuned by Ralliart to be lighter and more powerful with 330 hp.

Yet another special edition Evo VI was also released in 1999: the Tommi Mäkinen edition, named after Finnish rally driver Tommi Mäkinen. It featured Recaro seats, 17" wheels, a MOMO steering wheel and shift knob, and came in an exclusive shade of red with special decals, replicating Mäkinen's rally car's colour scheme. This car is also sometimes referred to as an Evo 6.5.

It was during the Evo VI's model run that American car enthusiasts, who had been previously denied the Evolution models, began to clamour for its introduction to the United States. This was primarily due to exposure of the Evolution in movies, anime like Initial D, and video games such as the Gran Turismo series.


Evolution VII



In 2001, the Mitsubishi decided to race in the WRC class instead of the Group A class, and thus did not need to follow homologation rules. The Evo VII was based on the larger Lancer Cedia platform and as a result gained more weight over the Evo VI, but made up for this with multiple important chassis tweaks. The biggest change was the addition of an active center differential and a more effective limited-slip differential, while a front helical limited-slip differential was added. Torque was increased again to 284 ft·lbf (385 N·m) with engine tweaks that allowed greater airflow, and horsepower officially remained at 280 PS (276 hp/206 kW). Don't be fooled by the civilian appearence; This car can easily run with a Ferrari 360 Modena and beat it, as seen in Best Motoring videos.


Evolution VIII

The Evolution was changed again in 2003, this time sporting Super Active Yaw Control to handle traction and a 6-speed manual gearbox. It was available with 280 PS (276 hp/206 kW) in three trims: standard (GSR in Japan), RS (devoid of all excess components, such as the rear wing, trunk carpeting, interior map lights, power windows/doors, and radio) and MR, which came with a new vortex generator (a set of ridges above the rear window to improve aerodynamics). Both RS and MR Editions came with a revised limited-slip front differential.

The Lancer Evolution VIII MR uses slick-response Bilstein shocks for improved handling. The aluminium roof panel and other reductions in body weight have lowered the centre of gravity to realize more natural roll characteristics. Detail improvements have also been made to Mitsubishi’s own electronic all-wheel drive, to the ACD 5 + Super AYC 6 traction control and to the Sports ABS systems. The Lancer Evolution VIII displayed at the 2003 Tokyo Motor Show took the MR designation traditionally reserved for Mitsubishi Motors high-performance models and used first on the Galant GTO.

In the United Kingdom, many special Evolutions were introduced, which included FQ320, FQ340, and FQ400 variants. They each came with 320, 340, and 400 hp (239, 254, and 298 kW), respectively.

The FQ400, while not officially developed by Mitsubishi, is of noticeable interest: it produces 302.13 kW (405.2 hp), from its 2.0 L 4G63 engine as the result of being specially modified by UK tuning firms Rampage, Owen Developments and Flow Race Engines. At 202.9 hp (151.3 kW) per litre, it has one of the highest specific output per litre of any roadcar engine. With a curb weight of around 3200lbs, it achieves a 0-60 in 3.5 seconds and a 0-100 in around 9 seconds truly making it a supercar, all for around £47,000. BBC's Top Gear demonstrated how the FQ-400 could easily keep up with a Lamborghini Murcielago around a test track. The Stig recorded a Top Gear Power Lap Times of 1.24.8. (which is faster than a BMW M5)

The Lancer Evolution VIII was also the first Evolution to come to the United States, spurred by the astounding success of the Subaru Impreza WRX which had been released there just three years prior. However, the internal components for the American versions were based largely on the specs for the Japanese Lancer Evolution VII. No US spec Evolution has AYC, including the 2006 Evolution IX. The American 2003 and 2004 GSRs are without the helical limited-slip front differential and 6-speed manual transmission. The 2004 US spec RS model, however, does have a front helical limited-slip differential. All 2003, 2004 and 2005 RS and GSR models have the Japanese Evolution VII's 5-speed transmission. The MR edition was introduced to the US in 2004, the first model to sport the ACD and still (as of 2005) the only model with a 6-speed transmission. The 2005 US spec RS and GSR have the ACD standard, and the front helical limited-slip differential is now standard on all models. The timing and tuning are also slightly more conservative than its Japanese counterpart, but this is mainly to adhere to the strict emissions regulations of the US (California in particular).

All Evolution VIII's sport an attractive carbon fiber rear wing with matching body-color endplates (except for the MR Edition, whose endplates are painted black).

Evolution IX

Mitsubishi introduced the 2006 Lancer Evolution IX at the 2005 New York International Auto Show. The 2.0 L engine now gets MIVEC technology (variable valve timing), boosting official for power output to 286 hp (213 kW) and torque to 289 ft·lbf (392 N·m) - however actual figures are believed to be at least 10% higher.

The IX keeps all the Evolution VIII MR goodies like Bilstein shocks, a 6-speed manual transmission, vortex generators, and an aluminium roof. Additional revisions from 2005 include a closer gear ratio for the 5-speed transmission and new lighter Enkei wheels on non-MR models.

All three models will be available in the US. All models use the same 286 hp (213 kW) engine. All models use a front and rear LSD (Limited Slip Differential), and an ACD (Active Center Differential).

* Standard/GSR - revised 5-speed, standard model
* RS - revised 5-speed, aluminium roof, gauge pack, minimal interior
* MR - 6-speed, Bilstein monotube shocks, aluminium roof, gauge pack

Three models will also be available in Europe and Japan. Although all models use the same 286 hp (213 kW) engine, the torque differs from one model to another. The GSR produces 295 ft·lbf (400 Nm) of torque while the RS and GT produce 300 ft·lbf (407 Nm).

* RS - revised 5-speed, aluminium roof, gauge pack, minimal interior, LSD and a titanium-magnesium turbine
* GT - revised 5-speed, this is basically the RS mechanically, but with some of the GSR's features (mainly interior pieces).
* GSR - 6-speed, Bilstein monotube shocks, aluminium roof, gauge pack, AYC (Active Yaw Control), and double-din radio (this is roughly equivalent to the MR)

A 2,500-piece, limted edition Evolution IX station wagon will be released in Japan soon after the sedan's debut. It uses the back end of the Lancer Sportback wagon grafted onto the sedan. Two trim models will be introduced: the GT with a six-speed manual transmission and the GT-A with a 5-speed automatic. Other than the station wagon back end, redesigned seats, and some small chromed trim pieces, the car's interior is the same as the sedan. There is some debate over whether or not the wagon will be introduced to the United States or other markets.