Segment:
Compact sports coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional technicians working on Mitsubishi FTO models
Competitors:
Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, Nissan 200SX (S14), Mazda MX-6
Unique Selling Points:
MIVEC V6 engine, unique styling, available Active Aerodynamics (Aero Series)
Powertrain:
Engine, Engine Lubrication, Fuel System, Engine Cooling, Intake and Exhaust, Engine Electrical, Engine and Emission Control, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Power Plant Mount
Chassis:
Front Axle, Rear Axle, Wheel and Tire, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Service Brakes, Parking Brakes, Steering
Body And Comfort:
Body, Exterior and Interior, HVAC
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based diagnosis
Repair:
Component removal and installation, rebuilding procedures, adjustments, component testing
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical diagrams, component dimensions
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic checks and maintenance to in-depth component repair and overhaul
Configuration:
60-degree V6
Displacement:
1998 cc (2.0 Liters)
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 24 Valves
Aspiration:
Naturally Aspirated
Bore X Stroke:
78.4 mm x 69.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1 (typical)
Power Output Ps:
200 PS @ 7000 rpm (approx. for MIVEC variants)
Torque Output Nm:
191 Nm @ 6000 rpm (approx. for MIVEC variants)
Mivec System:
Mitsubishi Innovative MIVEC (engine timing control system) for improved power and efficiency across the rev range.
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (95 RON recommended)
NHTSA Rating:
N/A (Vehicle predates widespread standardized testing by NHTSA)
ABS:
Available on higher trims (e.g., GSR, RS-X)
Traction Control:
Available on some models (e.g., ECI-Multi/TCL)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags available on later models/trims
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners available on some models.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., iridium).
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH/SJ, ACEA A2/A3, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity and capacity, typically around 4.5 liters).
Coolant:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with deionized water (50/50 mix), capacity ~7.5 liters.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-80 gear oil. Capacity ~2.1 liters for F5M42.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-II M or equivalent. Capacity ~7.3 liters (total fill, check manual for specific drain/refill amounts).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Suspension Wear:
Front suspension components (bushings, ball joints) can wear over time, leading to knocking noises and poor handling.
Rusting:
Common in older vehicles, especially wheel arches, sills, and around windows.
Mivec Cam Phaser:
MIVEC system can sometimes develop issues, affecting performance and smooth running, often related to oil pressure or solenoids.
Automatic Transmission:
INVECS-II can sometimes be hesitant or fail to select gears correctly if not properly maintained; fluid changes are critical.
Air Conditioning:
HVAC systems can develop leaks or compressor issues common to many vehicles of this era.
Timing Belt:
Critical component; must be replaced at recommended intervals (typically 60,000 miles / 100,000 km) to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Motorsport Connection:
Developed by Mitsubishi's performance division, with motorsport heritage influencing its design and engineering.
Facelifts:
Received minor updates and cosmetic changes during its production run, including revised bumpers and interior trim.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Key Markets:
Primarily Japan, with limited export to other markets (e.g., UK, Australia).