Original Market Position:
Daewoo's flagship sedan, aiming for the mid-size family car market with an emphasis on value and European styling influences.
Key Competitors:
Ford Mondeo, Opel Vectra, Nissan Primera, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord (in respective markets).
Design Influence:
Styled by Giorgetto Giugiaro (Italdesign), known for its distinctive, somewhat upscale European appearance for its class and time.
Value Proposition:
Offered a comprehensive feature set and competitive pricing, often positioning itself as a more affordable alternative to established Japanese and European rivals.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control, starting, charging
Transmission Systems:
Manual and Automatic transmission diagnosis, repair, and overhaul
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, driveshafts, differentials, axles, wheel bearings
Suspension Systems:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings
Steering Systems:
Steering column, power steering system, tie rods, linkages
Brake Systems:
Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), ABS, hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body controls, power accessories, engine control module (ECM) wiring diagrams
HVAC Systems:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, chassis components, collision repair information
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation
Repair:
Component removal and installation, adjustment procedures, internal component repair
Rebuilds:
Engine rebuild specifications, transmission overhaul procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic flowcharts.
Engine Code 1:
Ecotec X20SED (I4)
Engine Displacement 1:
2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
Engine Type 1:
DOHC 16-Valve Inline-4
Engine Power 1:
Approx. 131-136 PS (96-100 kW) at 5400-5600 RPM
Engine Torque 1:
Approx. 185-190 Nm (136-140 lb-ft) at 4000-4400 RPM
Engine Displacement 2:
1.8 Liters (1799 cc)
Engine Type 2:
SOHC 16-Valve Inline-4
Engine Power 2:
Approx. 115-121 PS (85-89 kW) at 5400-5800 RPM
Engine Torque 2:
Approx. 165-170 Nm (122-125 lb-ft) at 3800-4000 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Compression Ratio 2.0L:
10.1:1
Compression Ratio 1.8L:
9.5:1
Transmission Type Std:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Opt:
4-Speed Automatic
Automatic Features:
Electronic control, potentially with 'Sport' or 'Winter' modes depending on market and year.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent
Length:
Approx. 4790 mm (188.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 1785 mm (70.3 in)
Height:
Approx. 1430 mm (56.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)
Front Track:
Approx. 1515 mm (59.6 in)
Rear Track:
Approx. 1505 mm (59.3 in)
Curb Weight 1.8L Manual:
Approx. 1350 kg (2976 lbs)
Curb Weight 2.0L Auto:
Approx. 1420 kg (3131 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by engine/transmission, typically around 1900-2000 kg
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 500 liters (17.7 cu ft)
NHTSA Rating:
No specific NHTSA ratings readily available for the Daewoo brand in North America for this model; early models often had less stringent testing and reporting.
ABS:
Available on higher trims, standard on later models.
Traction Control:
Rare, potentially available on very late or export models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear.
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX/LATCH points typically not standard, may vary by market.
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette/CD player. Upgrades available with aftermarket units.
Navigation:
Not available from factory.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
Bluetooth:
Not available from factory. Aftermarket integration possible.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact mileage.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 20,000 miles (24,000 - 32,000 km) or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) with iridium-tipped plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement 2.0L:
Every 60,000 - 80,000 miles (96,000 - 128,000 km) or 5 years. Critical due to interference engine design.
Engine Oil Type:
API SL/SM or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40. Check owner's manual for climate-specific recommendations.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (green type) meeting GM 6277M or equivalent. 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Idle Instability:
Can be caused by dirty throttle body, vacuum leaks, or failing idle air control (IAC) valve.
Transmission Harsh Shifting:
Often related to low or old transmission fluid, or issues with the valve body/solenoids in automatic transmissions.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts are common due to age and mileage.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corrosion in connectors, faulty grounds, and failing body control modules can lead to various electrical issues.
Exhaust System Corrosion:
Rusting mufflers, pipes, and catalytic converters are typical for vehicles of this age, especially in areas with road salt.
Daewoo History:
Daewoo Motor was a South Korean automobile manufacturer, part of the Daewoo Group. It emerged from the remnants of Saehan Motor and was later acquired by General Motors.
Leganza Introduction:
The Leganza was introduced in 1997 as a successor to the Daewoo Prince. It was part of Daewoo's effort to establish a stronger presence in international markets with more modern and stylish vehicles.
Platform Sharing:
Based on the V100 platform, which was developed in conjunction with engineering firm TPV (now part of Magna International) and shared some underpinnings with the Opel Vectra B.
Production Years:
1997-2002
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (primarily Bupyong plant), with assembly also conducted in other countries through CKD kits.
Market Withdrawal:
Production ceased due to the financial troubles of the Daewoo Group and subsequent acquisition by GM. Replaced by models within the GM Daewoo lineup.
Market Perception Award:
Often recognized for offering a compelling value proposition and stylish design relative to its price point at launch.
Consumer Reports Rating:
Ratings were mixed to poor in consumer reliability surveys, a common issue for Daewoo vehicles in many markets.
Emissions Certification:
Compliant with various international emissions standards of the period (e.g., Euro 3 in Europe).