🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Colt Summit Mirage Turbo

Year:

1989

Platform Code:

E30/E31/E32/E33/E34/E35/E38/E39 (CC, CL, CM, CN, CP, CR)

Engine Code Primary:

4G61T (1.6L Turbocharged SOHC)

Engine Code Optional:

4G15 (1.5L SOHC MPI - non-turbo variants, for comparative context)

👋 Introduction

Era Context:

Part of Mitsubishi's strong showing in the compact performance car segment of the late 1980s, competing with models like the Honda Civic Si, Toyota Corolla GT-S, and Nissan Pulsar GTI-R.

Performance Segment:

Positioned as a sporty, affordable, and often turbocharged option within the compact car class, offering spirited performance.

Performance Focus:

The 'Turbo' designation highlights the primary appeal – enhanced performance via the potent 4G61T engine, often paired with sophisticated drivetrain options.

Badges:

Colt, Summit, and Mirage badges were used for largely the same vehicle platform in different markets (e.g., Colt/Summit in North America, Mirage in Japan/other regions).

📋 Manual Details

Covered Variants:

Turbocharged models (Colt GT Turbo, Summit GS Turbo, Mirage Cyborg Turbo), and potentially non-turbo variants for shared systems.

Approximate Pages:

600-800 (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Book (original equipment)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

4G61T turbo engine diagnostics, overhaul, fuel injection, ignition, turbocharger system, cooling, lubrication, emissions controls.

Transmission:

F5M31 (5-speed manual), F4A33 (4-speed automatic) – overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications, shift linkage.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD - specific to certain Mirage/Colt Cyborg models) system repair, CV joints, differential.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, rear independent suspension (various configurations), springs, shocks, bushings, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front vented discs, rear drums/discs (model dependent), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped), bleeding procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system, rack and pinion, steering column, tie rods, alignment.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, ECU pinouts, sensor testing, SRS (Airbag) system (if equipped).

Body:

Exterior panel removal/installation, interior trim, glass replacement, body sealing, rust repair considerations, chassis specifications.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant types, compressor, evaporator, condenser.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, timing belt), fluid checks and replacements.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for engine, electrical, and mechanical systems.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation across all major systems.

Diagnostics:

Engine performance diagnostics, fault code retrieval (if applicable for the era), sensor voltage/resistance checks, boost pressure testing.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for fasteners, engine clearances, alignment settings, tire pressures, fluid capacities, electrical component test values.

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Availability:

Likely available as high-quality PDF scans in the aftermarket, but original is printed.

Original Print Quality:

High (factory standard for technical documentation)

Original Binding:

Stapled or perfect bound (depending on publisher/region)

Original Paper Quality:

Durable, often glossy or semi-gloss paper suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4, turbocharged, multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Engine Displacement:

1597 cc (1.6 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

81.0 mm x 77.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.3:1 (typical for turbocharged variants of this era to handle boost)

Horsepower:

145-160 PS (143-158 hp) @ 6000 rpm (approximate, market dependent)

Torque:

190-205 Nm (140-151 lb-ft) @ 3500-4000 rpm (approximate, market dependent)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Fuel Pump.

Turbocharger:

Mitsubishi TD04-9B or similar unit, intercooled (air-to-air).

Ignition Type:

Distributor-based electronic ignition with knock sensor.

Emission Controls:

Catalytic converter, EGR system, PCV valve, oxygen sensors.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transaxle (F5M31 series)

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle (F4A33 series)

AWD Option:

Some 'Cyborg' or specific trim levels may feature All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with a viscous coupling center differential.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-II or equivalent Dexron II/III compatible fluid.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, 2-door coupe (sometimes referred to as 'Mirage' in certain markets).

Wheelbase:

2450 mm (96.5 inches) approx.

Length:

4000-4150 mm (157.5-163.4 inches) approx. (body style dependent)

Width:

1680-1700 mm (66.1-66.9 inches) approx.

Height:

1380-1420 mm (54.3-55.9 inches) approx. (body style dependent)

Curb Weight:

1050-1250 kg (2315-2755 lbs) approx. (depending on trim and drivetrain)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not typically listed in service manuals, but implied by chassis strength.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official crash test data available from era, but comparable vehicles of the time generally scored poorly by modern standards. Manual would cover basic occupant safety systems.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) optional on some higher trims.

Airbags:

Driver's airbag was not standard and generally not available on most 1989 models. SRS system coverage would be minimal if present.

Seatbelts:

3-point front seatbelts, 2-point lap belts in rear (typical).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with optional equalizer and amplifier. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Cruise Control:

Optional on higher trim levels.

ECU Interface:

OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics version 1) systems were in use, with proprietary diagnostic connectors and protocols. Manual will detail these for troubleshooting.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Engine Oil Filter:

Replace with every oil change.

Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Turbo models may require more frequent checks.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on type (copper vs. platinum). Consult manual for specific recommendations for the 4G61T.

Timing Belt:

Critical replacement item for the 4G61T. Typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years. Belt failure results in catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity under different temperature ranges).

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity ~6.5 liters.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II/III or manufacturer-specific power steering fluid.

Turbo System Wear:

Turbocharger seals can degrade with age and heat, leading to oil consumption or reduced boost. Intercooler piping can crack.

Cooling System:

Radiator leaks, thermostat failure, and coolant hose degradation are common due to age.

Electrical Gremlins:

Corroded grounds, failing sensors (e.g., TPS, MAP), and brittle wiring insulation can cause intermittent electrical issues.

Suspension Wear:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, strut mounts, and control arm bushings are common due to mileage and age.

Rust And Corrosion:

Common in areas exposed to salt or moisture, affecting body panels, subframes, and exhaust systems.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Motors:

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer known for its diverse range of vehicles and engineering prowess, particularly in turbocharged engines and 4x4 systems.

Colt Mirage Lineage:

The Mitsubishi Colt/Mirage platform (A150 series onward) evolved through several generations. The 1989 model belongs to the fifth generation (1988-1992, chassis code E30/E31/E32/E33/E34/E35/E38/E39), which introduced significant design and engineering updates.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, with potential assembly in other countries under license or for specific markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance Credentials:

While specific awards for the 1989 model are scarce, the 4G61T engine and its derivatives were highly regarded for their performance and tunability, often appearing in sport compacts and rally cars.

Industry Reputation:

The Colt Summit Mirage Turbo was recognized for offering a compelling blend of sportiness, technology, and value in its class during its production run.