Era:
Japanese sports car era of the 1990s
Segment:
Grand Tourer / Sports Coupe
Key Competitors:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Mazda RX-7 (FD)
Design:
Sleek, aerodynamic design with pop-up headlights and a long hood
Performance Technology:
Available twin-turbocharged V6, advanced all-wheel-drive (AWD), active four-wheel steering (AWS), active aerodynamics
Interior Appointments:
Luxurious interior with advanced features for its time, often available with leather, premium sound systems
Engine:
All engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust systems
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmissions, clutch, drivetrain components
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, Active Aerodynamics (ECS)
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, ABS, parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, linkages
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, ECUs
Body:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior panels, doors, windows, glass, Active Aerodynamics (spoiler, air dam)
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (if equipped), seat belt mechanisms
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Adjustment:
Torque specifications, alignment procedures, component adjustments
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic diagnostics to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Detail Level:
Includes detailed diagrams, exploded views, torque specifications, and OEM procedures
Engine Configuration:
60-degree V6, DOHC, 24 valves
Non Turbo Horsepower:
222 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Non Turbo Torque:
205 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)
Twin Turbo Horsepower:
300 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Twin Turbo Torque:
307 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (approx.)
Induction:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) with twin intercooled turbochargers (VR-4)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
NHTSA Driver Frontal Impact:
4 Stars (1992 model, varies)
NHTSA Passenger Frontal Impact:
3 Stars (1992 model, varies)
Aws:
Active Four-Wheel Steering (AWS) enhances maneuverability and stability
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on VR-4, optional on some non-turbos
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags (standard on later models, optional earlier)
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner seatbelts
Audio System:
Factory premium audio systems, often with cassette and CD players, speaker systems from premium brands (e.g., Bose on some models).
Aws:
Active Four-Wheel Steering (AWS) provides enhanced stability and agility.
Ecs:
Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) allowed driver adjustment of damping rates.
Active Aero:
Active front air dam and rear spoiler that adjust with speed to optimize aerodynamics.
Original Connectivity:
Limited by era; primary connectivity was through the factory audio and climate control systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years, whichever comes first (CRITICAL for interference engine).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type; typically 30,000-60,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 10W-30 API SG or higher (consult manual for specific temperature ranges).
Coolant Spec:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with de-ionized water).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil (for Getrag 6-speed).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
DIA Queen ATF-SP III or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid:
DEXRON II or III compatible ATF.
Common Problems Early Models:
ECS failure, timing belt tensioner issues (pre-1994), intercooler piping leaks (VR-4), exhaust manifold cracking.
Common Problems Later Models:
ECS controller failures, minor electrical gremlins, fuel pump issues.
Maintenance Items Focus:
Regular checks of all fluid levels, coolant condition, belt tension, and vacuum lines are crucial for longevity.
Manufacturer:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation
First Generation:
The 3000GT (GTO) was introduced in 1990 (model year 1991 in North America) as a flagship sports car.
Facelift Updates:
Received significant updates for the 1994 model year, including revised styling (removal of pop-up headlights), updated aerodynamics, and improved powertrain. The manual covers both pre-facelift (92-93) and facelift (94-96) models.
Manufacturing Plant:
Mitsubishi Motors' Pouchain factory in Mizushima, Japan
Production Years:
1990–2001 (Globally)
Car And Driver Best:
Car and Driver's Ten Best list (1991, 1992, 1993) for its performance and technology.
Motortrend Performance:
Often praised by automotive publications for its advanced technology and potent twin-turbo performance.
Performance Car:
Regarded as one of the premier Japanese sports cars of its generation.
