Segment:
        
        
            Sports Coupe / Grand Tourer
        
     
    
        
            Unique Selling Proposition:
        
        
            Advanced technology for its era, including twin-turbocharging, all-wheel drive, active aerodynamics, and electronically controlled suspension (ECS) on VR-4 models.
        
     
    
    
        
            Primary Competitors:
        
        
            Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Mazda RX-7 (FD3S), Chevrolet Corvette (C4/C5)
        
     
    
        
            Key Differentiators:
        
        
            Sophisticated AWD system, available active aerodynamics, and powerful V6 engine offered a unique blend of performance and technology.
        
     
    
    
        
            Performance Options:
        
        
            Available naturally aspirated and twin-turbocharged V6 engines, optional AWD.
        
     
    
        
            Handling Features:
        
        
            ECS, Active Aerodynamics, Four-wheel steering (AWS) on early models.
        
     
    
        
            Design Features:
        
        
            Sleek, aerodynamic styling with pop-up headlights (first generation) and a sculpted body.
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Engine Mechanical:
        
        
            V6 engine assembly, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, valvetrain, lubrication system, cooling system
        
     
    
        
            Engine Performance:
        
        
            Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, turbocharging (twin-turbo models)
        
     
    
        
            Transmission Manual:
        
        
            Clutch, gearbox, internal components, shifter mechanism
        
     
    
        
            Transmission Automatic:
        
        
            Automatic transmission assembly, torque converter, hydraulic control, electronic control unit (ECU)
        
     
    
        
            Drivetrain:
        
        
            Front wheel drive (FWD), All wheel drive (AWD) system, viscous coupling unit, rear differential
        
     
    
        
            Suspension:
        
        
            Front suspension (MacPherson strut), Rear suspension (multi-link), ECS (Electronic Control Suspension) system
        
     
    
        
            Steering:
        
        
            Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion
        
     
    
        
            Brakes:
        
        
            Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake
        
     
    
        
            Electrical System:
        
        
            Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, fuses, relays
        
     
    
        
            Body And Frame:
        
        
            Body panel repair, interior trim, exterior trim, glass replacement, underbody protection
        
     
    
        
            HVAC:
        
        
            Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, components, refrigerant servicing
        
     
    
        
            Body Electronics:
        
        
            Power windows, power locks, mirrors, alarm system, cruise control
        
     
    
    
        
            Maintenance Schedule:
        
        
            Routine maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, belt inspection
        
     
    
        
            Diagnostic Procedures:
        
        
            Troubleshooting flowcharts, symptom-based diagnosis, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation
        
     
    
        
            Repair Procedures:
        
        
            Step-by-step disassembly and reassembly instructions for all major components
        
     
    
        
            Overhaul Procedures:
        
        
            Complete engine and transmission rebuild instructions
        
     
    
        
            Special Tools:
        
        
            Identification of required specialized tools for specific repairs
        
     
    
        
            Torque Specifications:
        
        
            Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners
        
     
    
        
            Wiring Diagrams:
        
        
            Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
        
     
    
        
            Specifications And Tolerances:
        
        
            Engine clearances, bearing play, brake rotor runout, etc.
        
     
    
    
        
            Depth:
        
        
            Factory-level technical detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
        
     
    
        
            Diagnostic Capability:
        
        
            Advanced electronic diagnostics, sensor data interpretation, ECU logic
        
     
    
        
            Rebuild Capability:
        
        
            Full rebuild procedures for powertrain, suspension, and braking systems
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Type Na:
        
        
            5-speed Manual Transmission (for naturally aspirated models)
        
     
    
        
            Type Tt Early:
        
        
            6-speed Manual Transmission (for early VR-4 models)
        
     
    
        
            Type Tt Later:
        
        
            6-speed Manual Transmission (with improved gear ratios for later VR-4 models)
        
     
    
    
        
            Type Automatic:
        
        
            4-speed Automatic Transmission with Electronic Control
        
     
    
    
        
            Clutch Type:
        
        
            Hydraulic, Single Dry Plate (Manual)
        
     
    
        
            AWD System:
        
        
            Full-time Active All-Wheel Drive with Viscous Coupling Unit and Planetary Gear Center Differential (VR-4 models)
        
     
    
        
            Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
        
        
            API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil
        
     
    
        
            Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
        
        
            Diamond SP-III ATF
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
        
        
            Not explicitly rated for this era by NHTSA, but modern testing would likely show moderate protection.
        
     
    
        
            NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
        
        
            Not explicitly rated for this era by NHTSA, but modern testing would likely show moderate protection.
        
     
    
    
        
            ABS:
        
        
            Standard on VR-4, optional on SL (4-wheel ABS)
        
     
    
        
            Traction Control:
        
        
            Available on VR-4 models
        
     
    
        
            Aws:
        
        
            Active Four-Wheel Steering (AWS) on 1991-1993 VR-4 models
        
     
    
    
        
            Airbags:
        
        
            Driver and passenger airbags (standard on most trims by 1994-1996)
        
     
    
        
            Seatbelts:
        
        
            3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear lap and shoulder belts
        
     
    
        
            Crumple Zones:
        
        
            Designed with front and rear crumple zones for impact energy absorption.
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Audio System:
        
        
            Premium Mitsubishi AM/FM stereo with cassette tape player and optional CD player. Some models featured an equalizer and amplifier.
        
     
    
        
            Climate Control:
        
        
            Automatic climate control available on SL and VR-4 trims, offering precise temperature and fan speed management.
        
     
    
    
        
            Active Aero Control:
        
        
            Active front spoiler and adjustable rear wing that changed angle based on speed to optimize downforce and reduce drag.
        
     
    
        
            Ecs System:
        
        
            Electronic Control Suspension allowed drivers to select between 'Sport' and 'Comfort' modes, adjusting damping rates.
        
     
    
        
            Aws System:
        
        
            Active Four-Wheel Steering (AWS) on early models improved low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability.
        
     
    
    
        
            Early Electronic Features:
        
        
            Remote keyless entry (on later models), power everything (windows, locks, mirrors), cruise control.
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Engine Oil Change:
        
        
            Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
        
     
    
        
            Oil Filter Replacement:
        
        
            With every oil change.
        
     
    
        
            Air Filter Replacement:
        
        
            Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
        
     
    
        
            Spark Plug Replacement:
        
        
            Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
        
     
    
        
            Timing Belt Replacement:
        
        
            Critical: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years (for 6G72TT DOHC engines). Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
        
     
    
    
        
            Engine Oil Type Na:
        
        
            API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 (or 5W-30 in very cold climates).
        
     
    
        
            Engine Oil Type Tt:
        
        
            API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 (or 5W-30 in very cold climates) - Synthetic recommended for turbos.
        
     
    
        
            Coolant Type:
        
        
            Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors) - 50/50 mix with distilled water.
        
     
    
        
            Brake Fluid Type:
        
        
            DOT 3 or DOT 4.
        
     
    
        
            Power Steering Fluid Type:
        
        
            Mitsubishi PSF or Dexron-III ATF.
        
     
    
    
        
            Head Gaskets:
        
        
            Susceptible to head gasket failure, particularly the rear bank on DOHC engines due to heat and exhaust routing. Regular coolant checks and timely timing belt service are crucial.
        
     
    
        
            Tdc Sensors:
        
        
            Crankshaft and Camshaft position sensors can fail, leading to starting issues or stalling.
        
     
    
        
            Ecs Components:
        
        
            Electronic Control Suspension (ECS) system components, especially the struts and control modules, can be prone to failure or malfunction over time. Finding replacement parts can be challenging.
        
     
    
        
            Active Aero:
        
        
            The active aerodynamics system (wing and spoiler actuation) can experience issues with motors, sensors, or control units.
        
     
    
        
            Turbocharger Issues:
        
        
            Original turbochargers (if not properly maintained) can develop leaks, bearing wear, or wastegate issues. Proper warm-up and cool-down procedures are essential.
        
     
    
        
            Interior Wear:
        
        
            Aging interior plastics, seat wear, and dashboard delamination can occur, common for vehicles of this vintage.
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Manufacturer:
        
        
            Mitsubishi Motors Corporation
        
     
    
        
            Heritage Focus:
        
        
            Known for its engineering prowess, particularly in turbocharged engines and all-wheel-drive systems (e.g., Lancer Evolution).
        
     
    
    
        
            Initial Launch:
        
        
            Introduced in 1990 as a flagship sports coupe.
        
     
    
        
            First Generation Changes:
        
        
            Pop-up headlights, active aerodynamics (active front spoiler and rear wing), ECS, and AWS (on VR-4).
        
     
    
        
            Second Generation Changes:
        
        
            Revised styling (fixed headlights), updated interior, increased horsepower for twin-turbo models, deletion of AWS, and retention of ECS and active aerodynamics.
        
     
    
        
            Spyder Variant:
        
        
            Introduction of the retractable hardtop Spyder model.
        
     
    
    
        
            Production Period:
        
        
            1990-1999
        
     
    
        
            Manufacturing Location:
        
        
            Japan
        
     
    
        
            Sales Performance:
        
        
            Initial strong sales, particularly for VR-4 models, but sales declined in later years due to high cost and increased competition.