Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe / Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, owners seeking in-depth technical knowledge.
Key Competitors 1996:
Nissan 240SX, Toyota Celica, Mazda MX-6, Ford Probe, Honda Prelude.
Engine Options:
Available with naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines, offering different performance levels.
Drivetrain Options:
Offered in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and sophisticated All-Wheel Drive (AWD) configurations, particularly with the turbocharged engines.
Design:
Distinctive styling, often associated with the DSM (Diamond-Star Motors) collaboration.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emission control systems (EVAP, EGR), turbocharger system (for turbo models).
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox, gears, shift linkages, flywheel, clutch fluid.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission assembly, torque converter, valve body, transmission control unit (TCU), transmission fluid, cooler lines.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, differentials, drive axles, CV joints, propeller shaft (AWD).
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake.
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (multi-link independent on some AWD models), springs, shock absorbers, bushings, sway bars.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, steering wheel.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, interior trim, chassis structure, rust prevention.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, cabin filter.
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, crash safety structures.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common symptoms (e.g., engine misfires, starting issues, braking problems), fault code interpretation (OBD-II).
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul of all major systems.
Diagnostics:
Testing procedures for sensors, actuators, and electrical circuits using multimeters and diagnostic tools.
Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Refurbishment:
Guidance on restoring worn components and systems.
Restoration:
Information applicable to bringing a classic vehicle back to original specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.
Engine 1 Variant:
2.0L DOHC 16-valve 4G63 Inline-4 (Naturally Aspirated)
Engine 1 Displacement:
1997 cc (2.0 Liters)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 140 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 135 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 2 Variant:
2.0L DOHC 16-valve 4G63 Turbocharged Inline-4
Engine 2 Displacement:
1997 cc (2.0 Liters)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 210 hp @ 6000 rpm (GST/GSX models)
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 214 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (GST/GSX models)
Engine 3 Variant:
2.4L SOHC 16-valve 4G64 Inline-4
Engine 3 Displacement:
2351 cc (2.4 Liters)
Engine 3 Horsepower:
Approx. 141 hp @ 5500 rpm
Engine 3 Torque:
Approx. 155 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm
Engine Control:
ECI-Multi (Electronic Controlled Injection) Multi-Point Fuel Injection.
Turbocharger System:
Garrett T25/T28 variant with intercooler (on turbo models).
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential multi-port fuel injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane recommended for turbo models).
Length:
Approx. 173.0 inches (4394 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approx. 50.0 inches (1270 mm) (Coupe)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 100.4 inches (2550 mm)
Track Width Front:
Approx. 59.3 inches (1506 mm)
Track Width Rear:
Approx. 59.1 inches (1501 mm)
Curb Weight Est:
2850 - 3300 lbs (1293 - 1497 kg) depending on trim and drivetrain.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Approx. 4000 lbs (1814 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Not Recommended
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not rated (vehicle design predates some current rating methodologies)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Not rated (vehicle design predates some current rating methodologies)
IIHS Offset Crash Test:
Acceptable to Marginal (depending on specific test protocols and year of analysis)
ABS:
Available on GSX, GST, and optional on other trims. 4-wheel disc brakes standard on performance models.
Traction Control:
Available on some AWD turbo models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts front, two-point lap belts rear (some models).
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and roof structure for coupe models. Convertible models had a pop-up roll bar system integrated behind the seats.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Filter Change:
With every oil change.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years for the 4G63 and 4G64 engines.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as needed.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or as needed.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter for 2.0L/2.4L engines.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (check owner's manual for exact viscosity based on climate).
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mitsubishi Power Steering Fluid or Dexron-III/Mercon ATF.
Turbo Models Oil Sludge:
Risk of oil sludge buildup in the 4G63 turbo engine if oil changes are neglected, leading to turbocharger damage or engine failure.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Potential failure of the timing belt tensioner can cause belt slippage and severe engine damage.
Cv Joint Boots:
Ruptured CV joint boots can lead to premature failure of the Constant Velocity Joints, especially on AWD models.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear and tear on suspension bushings can lead to noise, poor handling, and alignment issues.
ABS Sensor Failure:
ABS wheel speed sensors can fail, leading to ABS warning lights and loss of ABS function.
Radiator Corrosion:
Older radiators may develop leaks or corrosion, leading to coolant loss.