🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Starion

Year:

1988

Chassis Codes:

A183A

Generation Designation:

Second Generation (Facelift)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mitsubishi Starion was a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe, positioned as a performance-oriented grand tourer. It competed against vehicles like the Toyota Supra, Nissan 300ZX (Z31), and Mazda RX-7 (FC).

Competitive Analysis:

The Starion was known for its turbocharged performance, advanced (for the time) electronic fuel injection, and distinctive styling. Its handling and power delivery made it a capable performance machine in its segment.

Key Features:

Turbocharged engine, rear-wheel drive, distinctive wedge-shaped styling, advanced electronic fuel injection, available sport-tuned suspension and braking systems.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All North American market variants and styles

Page Count:

Hundreds (actual count not specified but implied to be extensive)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual (Factory Official)

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain, suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (front and rear), electrical system, body and frame, interior, climate control, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, component disassembly and reassembly, diagnostic troubleshooting, repair procedures, wiring diagrams, specifications, tolerances, torque values, adjustments, alignment procedures, component testing, rebuild procedures, performance tuning.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and component overhauls, including in-depth electrical system diagnostics and troubleshooting with detailed wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, allowing for full or partial printing without restriction. All pages printable.

Binding Type:

Digital Download (no physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.0L 4G52T (G63B) SOHC 8-valve Turbocharged Inline-4

Horsepower 1988:

170 hp @ 5500 rpm (approximate, may vary by market/tune)

Torque 1988:

220 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (approximate, may vary by market/tune)

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Electronic Spark Control (ESC) and Turbocharging

Engine Codes:

4G52T / G63B

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

3-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Features:

Rear-wheel drive platform with robust drivetrain components designed for turbocharged power delivery.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

98.4 inches (2500 mm)

Length:

173.6 inches (4410 mm)

Width:

69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

50.6 inches (1285 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2900-3100 lbs (1315-1406 kg) depending on trim and transmission

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for 1988 models are not readily available, but vehicles of this era generally did not undergo the rigorous testing of modern standards.

Active Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes, limited-slip differential (optional on some models), power assisted steering.

Passive Features:

Seat belts, collapsible steering column, reinforced body structure.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Factory AM/FM stereo cassette player, optional equalizer and amplifier systems. Limited by 1980s technology standards.

Driver Assistance Features:

None in the modern sense. Basic features include power steering and anti-lock braking system (ABS) availability on some higher trims or optional packages.

Connectivity Features:

None

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise specification).

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plugs: 30,000 miles (48,000 km); Timing belt: 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as specified in manual.

Engine Oil Spec:

API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).

Coolant Spec:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent ATF

Known Issues:

Turbocharger reliability (oil starvation issues if not maintained), electronics (e.g., sensors, fuel injection control), rust in common areas (wheel arches, rocker panels), cooling system leaks, aging rubber components (hoses, bushings).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mitsubishi Motors has a history of producing durable and innovative vehicles, with a strong presence in rally racing and a reputation for engineering robust powertrains.

Model Evolution:

The Starion was first introduced globally in 1982 as the Chrysler Sigma Scorpion/Galant Lambda. The 1988 model represents the second generation, which received significant updates including revised styling, improved aerodynamics, and updated powertrain options, notably the larger intercooler and more potent engine tune for turbocharged variants.

Production Years:

1982-1989

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific 'awards' for the 1988 model year are not widely documented, the Starion was generally well-received for its performance and distinctive styling in the sports coupe market of its time.