Mitsubishi MD platform (shared with Mitsubishi Eclipse)
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe/Hatchback
Usp:
Affordable performance with stylish design, often featuring advanced (for its time) drivetrain options and accessible tuning potential.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Toyota Celica, Nissan 240SX, Ford Probe, Chevrolet Cavalier Z24
Key Features
Design:
Aerodynamic styling, often with pop-up headlights (depending on trim/region), sporty interior.
Performance Variants:
Availability of turbocharged engines and all-wheel-drive (AWD) systems in higher trims (e.g., Talon TSi AWD, Eclipse GSX), enhancing performance and handling.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform and many components with the Mitsubishi Eclipse, allowing for broad parts compatibility and a large aftermarket support base.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Engine Options:
All engines offered in 1991
Model Variants:
All trim levels and configurations
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (typically 1000+ pages for a complete factory service manual)
Manual Type
Type:
Complete Service & Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
PDF Download
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, overhaul, and specifications for all engine variants (e.g., 1.8L SOHC, 2.0L DOHC, 2.0L Turbo DOHC)
Fuel System:
Fuel injection systems, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, emissions control
Ignition System:
Distributor, ignition coils, spark plugs, timing, electronic control unit (ECU) diagnostics
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses, fan clutch/electric fan, coolant specifications
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended for turbocharged models)
Engine Management
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with integrated ignition control for many models.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Base:
5-speed manual transmission
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed automatic transmission
Features
AWD Availability:
Available with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on higher performance models (e.g., Talon TSi AWD), featuring a viscous coupling center differential and optional rear limited-slip differential.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for exact specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II (or equivalent)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 170-175 inches (4318-4445 mm), depending on specific body style (coupe/hatchback)
Width:
Approx. 68-69 inches (1727-1753 mm)
Height:
Approx. 50-52 inches (1270-1321 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.8 inches (2509 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2700-3200 lbs (1225-1450 kg), depending on engine, drivetrain, and options.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Crash Test:
Data specific to 1991 models may vary; earlier models of similar platforms generally received mixed results. Consult official NHTSA archives for specific data.
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on select models, typically higher trims or optional.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard on most models by 1991, passenger airbag not typically available.
Seat Belts:
3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear lap belts.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with optional CD player and multiple speaker configurations. Upgrades common.
Climate Control:
Manual climate controls for heating and air conditioning. Automatic climate control was rare/non-existent for this year.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on most models.
Connectivity
OBD Standard:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, First Generation) with proprietary Mitsubishi diagnostic connector.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km), or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for 4G63/4G61 engines. Typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API SG or higher). Check owner's manual for precise recommendation.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Green color.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II (or equivalent)
Known Issues
Turbocharger Reliability:
Early turbo models (4G63T) can be prone to turbo seal wear, intercooler leaks, and boost leaks if not properly maintained or if driven aggressively without proper warm-up/cool-down cycles.
Engine Sludge:
The 4G63 engine can be susceptible to oil sludge buildup if oil changes are neglected or incorrect oil is used, particularly on turbocharged variants.
Cv Axle Wear:
Front CV axles can wear out, leading to clicking noises during turns, especially with aggressive driving or lowered suspension.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber suspension bushings can degrade over time, leading to creaks, rattles, and poor handling.
Cooling System Leaks:
Radiator, hoses, and water pump can develop leaks with age.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and connectors can sometimes lead to intermittent electrical issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Motorsport Influence:
Mitsubishi's strong heritage in motorsports, particularly in rally (e.g., Lancer Evolution), influenced the engineering and performance capabilities of models like the Talon/Eclipse.
Model Evolution
First Generation:
The 1991 model year represents the debut of the first generation of the Mitsubishi Eclipse, and by extension, its virtually identical sibling, the Eagle Talon (and Plymouth Laser). This generation ran from 1990-1994.
Collabo With Chrysler:
These models were developed under the Diamond-Star Motors (DSM) joint venture between Mitsubishi Motors and Chrysler Corporation.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Built in Normal, Illinois, USA at the Diamond-Star Motors plant.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Mitsubishi Eclipse (and by extension, the Talon/Laser) was recognized on Car and Driver's '10Best' list for 1991.
Ratings
Sport Compact Of The Year:
Often praised in automotive press as a strong contender in the sport compact segment for its era.
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