Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Consumers seeking comfortable, powerful, and well-equipped American-market luxury sedans
Key Competitors:
Buick LeSabre/Park Avenue, Ford Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis, Chevrolet Lumina/Lumina APV, Dodge Intrepid, Toyota Avalon, Lexus ES300, Acura Legend
Differentiating Features:
Smooth V6 power, comfortable ride, spacious interior, advanced (for the era) transmissions, and a distinct styling.
Ls Trim Highlights:
Leather seating, power amenities, upgraded audio, alloy wheels, premium interior materials.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, emission controls
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (INVECS-II), differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, transaxle
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Power distribution, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, instrument cluster, body control modules, audio system, HVAC controls, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), SRS (Airbag) system
Body:
Body and frame construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, tune-up procedures, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical circuit diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with interpretations
Repair:
Component removal and installation, disassembly and assembly of major systems, internal engine and transmission repairs, body panel replacement, electrical component repair
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical tolerances, diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic with Overdrive
Transmission Technology:
INVECS-II (Intelligent and Innovative Vehicle Electronic Control System)
Optional Transmission:
None offered for this trim/year in US market
Transmission Features:
Sport mode, Winter mode (snow/ice traction)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Diamond ATF SP-III or equivalent
Transmission Fluid Capacity Initial Fill:
Approx. 3.8 Liters (4.0 US Quarts)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Total System:
Approx. 7.7 Liters (8.1 US Quarts)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Not rated or 4-star (depends on source/specific test).
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
Not rated or 4-star (depends on source/specific test).
Traction Control:
Optional (TCL)
Airbags Driver:
Standard (SRS)
Airbags Passenger:
Standard (SRS)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, driver's seat pretensioner
Child Seat Anchors:
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) - not standard on all models, check specific vehicle
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Refer to manual for severe conditions.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Engine Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months. Critical item to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG, SH, or SJ rated synthetic or semi-synthetic oil
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate and availability, refer to manual)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.7 US Quarts) with filter change
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III ATF
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant (pink or red color)
Engine Mounts:
Worn engine mounts can lead to excessive vibration felt in the cabin.
Transmission Shifting:
INVECS-II transmission can sometimes be overly hesitant or shift abruptly if fluid is degraded or control module issues arise.
Front Suspension Components:
Worn ball joints and tie rod ends are common on higher mileage vehicles, affecting steering and tire wear.
Exhaust System:
Rust and corrosion on exhaust pipes, mufflers, and catalytic converters are common in certain climates.
Radiator And Hoses:
Aging radiator and hoses can lead to leaks and overheating. Regular inspection is advised.
Mitsubishi Motors Legacy:
Mitsubishi Motors has a history dating back to 1917, with automotive production beginning in the 1930s. Known for engineering and innovative technologies.
Diamante Origins:
The Diamante was Mitsubishi's flagship sedan, designed to compete in the growing North American luxury car market. It was based on the platform shared with the Mitsubishi Debonair and was styled by Italian design house Pininfarina.
Second Generation Updates:
The 1997 model is part of the second generation, which saw a significant redesign with more aerodynamic styling and improved interior appointments. This generation aimed for a more European luxury feel.
Production Location:
Japan (Okayama Plant)
Production Years Usdm:
1992-1996 (1st Gen), 1997-2004 (2nd Gen)
Car And Driver 10Best:
Not typically featured on Car and Driver's 10Best list, which often focused on more dynamically engaging or performance-oriented vehicles.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Mixed to average ratings during its production run, with some praise for comfort and power but concerns regarding reliability in certain areas.
Safety Certifications:
Meets all US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) applicable for 1997 model year.