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.