Discerning buyers seeking comfort, refinement, and advanced features for its era.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Toyota Avalon, Buick Park Avenue, Ford Taurus SHO, Lexus ES300, Acura Legend
Key Features
Design Philosophy:
European-inspired styling, advanced technology, spacious and luxurious interior.
Distinguishing Attributes:
Sophisticated chassis, powerful V6 engines, available all-wheel drive (AWD) on select models, quiet ride, premium interior materials.
Manual Utility
Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the Mitsubishi Diamante, providing factory-level accuracy and detail for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
North America, Australia, Japan, Europe
Trim Levels Covered:
All available trim levels
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided, but described as extensive)
Numbered instructions and bold figure numbers for easy referencing
Detail Enhancements:
Enlarged inset views for detailed part examination
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Printability:
Printable without restriction, entire manual or selected pages
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Delivery
Delivery Method:
Instant download link provided on checkout page
Requirements
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
6G72 (SOHC and DOHC variants)
Engine Type:
60-degree V6, SOHC or DOHC
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2972 cc)
Performance
Horsepower Sohc:
Approx. 177 hp @ 5500 rpm (Varies slightly by market/year)
Torque Sohc:
Approx. 201 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (Varies slightly by market/year)
Horsepower DOHc:
Approx. 210 hp @ 6000 rpm (Varies slightly by market/year)
Torque DOHc:
Approx. 205 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (Varies slightly by market/year)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Control
ECU:
Mitsubishi Electronic Control Unit (ECU)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (INVECS-II with Sport Mode)
Optional
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (less common in North America, available in certain markets/trims)
Features
AWD Availability:
Available on select models (often designated with 'AWD' or specific trim codes)
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Diamond ATF SP-II (or equivalent like Dexron-III/Mercon)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
Approx. 110.2 inches (2800 mm)
Length:
Approx. 196.9 inches (5000 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.5 inches (1790 mm)
Height:
Approx. 56.1 inches (1425 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500 - 3800 lbs (1588 - 1724 kg) depending on configuration
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for 1996 model year, based on available data)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front occupants
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Optional premium audio systems, CD players, cassette players were common.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control was an option on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Connectivity
OBD Standard:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant, allowing for standardized diagnostic scanning.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles (6,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on plug type (platinum or iridium recommended).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: Every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) or 7 years, as this is an interference engine. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature range).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water (typically green or long-life pink/red depending on original fill).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
DEXRON II / III ATF or equivalent power steering fluid.
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Timing belt tensioner and idler pulley failure (preventative replacement crucial), automatic transmission shifting issues (especially with age/neglect), occasional electrical gremlins (window regulators, power locks), HVAC blower motor resistor failure, suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
Mitsubishi Motors is known for its engineering prowess, particularly in areas like four-wheel drive systems and robust powertrains.
Model Evolution
Generation Introduction:
The second generation Diamante (and its JDM counterpart, the Sigma) was introduced for the 1996 model year, succeeding the first generation's more angular design with smoother, more aerodynamic styling.
Design Inspiration:
The second generation featured a design influenced by European luxury sedans, aiming for a more premium and international appeal.
Production
Production Location:
Primarily produced at Mitsubishi's Nagoya Plant in Japan.
Production Years:
1996-2005 (though the manual covers the 1996-1997 facelifted models of the second generation)