Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Mazda RX-7 (FD), Chevrolet Corvette (C4/C5), Dodge Stealth (rebadged 3000GT).
Competitive Analysis
Key Differentiation:
Advanced technology features like Active Aerodynamics, Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Electronically Controlled Suspension (ECS), and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Electronically Controlled Torque Split (AECTS).
Key Features
Powertrain Options:
Naturally aspirated and twin-turbocharged V6 engines, available in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) configurations. Manual transmissions (W5MG1, W6MG1) and a 4-speed automatic.
Technology:
Advanced for its time, including active aero (front air dam, rear wing), ECS, ECS-4WD, and AWS (Active Four-Wheel Steering) on some models.
Design:
Sleek, aerodynamic styling with a long hood, short deck, and aggressive stance.
Torque specifications for all fasteners, component clearances, electrical system specifications, performance data.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repair. Includes detailed diagrams and exploded views.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
Digital Download (likely PDF)
Searchability:
Searchable text (typical for quality PDF manuals)
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.
300 hp @ 6000 rpm (some later models up to 320 hp)
Torque:
315 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (some later models up to 330 lb-ft)
Fuel System
Injection:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Turbocharging:
Twin Garrett turbochargers with intercoolers
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Naturally Aspirated:
5-speed Manual (W5MG1)
Transmission Type Twin Turbo:
6-speed Manual (W6MG1)
Optional
Transmission Type Automatic:
4-speed Automatic (V4A51)
Features
Drivetrain:
Available in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Electronically Controlled Torque Split (AECTS).
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate (manual transmission)
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid W5Mg1:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for specific recommendations)
Manual Transmission Fluid W6Mg1:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for specific recommendations)
Fluid Capacity
Manual Transmission Capacity Approx:
2.4 Liters (2.5 US Quarts)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior Length
Length:
179.1 inches (4549 mm)
Exterior Width
Width:
70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Exterior Height
Height:
49.4 inches (1255 mm)
Exterior Wheelbase
Wheelbase:
97.2 inches (2469 mm)
Weights Curb
Curb Weight Naturally Aspirated:
3472 lbs (1575 kg)
Curb Weight Twin Turbo AWD:
3770 lbs (1710 kg)
Weights Gross
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and drivetrain configuration
Cargo Volume
Trunk Capacity Approx:
8.0 cu ft (0.22 m³)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific ratings vary by model year; generally good for its era but not subject to modern stringent testing standards.
Active Features
Braking:
Four-wheel disc brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models.
Stability Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models, particularly turbocharged AWD versions.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, height-adjustable shoulder belts.
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced safety cell construction.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player and CD player (optional on some models). Amplified sound systems available.
Driver Assistance
Ecs:
Electronically Controlled Suspension (ECS) offered variable damping rates based on driving conditions and driver selection.
Aws:
Active Four-Wheel Steering (AWS) available on some models, improving low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability.
Connectivity
Diagnostic Ports:
OBD-I or early OBD-II diagnostic connectors depending on the model year, used for retrieving trouble codes.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals Engine Oil
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Service Intervals Ignition
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs; iridium plugs may last longer (check manual).
Service Intervals Timing Belt
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years, whichever comes first (critical due to interference engine design).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 or 5W-30 (check manual based on climate)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change (6G72/6G72TT)
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with OAT/HOAT technology)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen PSF (or equivalent ATF Dexron III or Mercon)
Known Issues
Twin Turbo Intercoolers:
Potential for leaks or degradation, leading to reduced boost pressure.
Active Aero Systems:
Mechanical and electrical components can fail over time, leading to non-functional spoilers and air dams.
Ecs Suspension:
Hydraulic lines and pumps can develop leaks; sensors and control modules can fail.
Rear Main Seal:
Can develop leaks over time, especially on higher mileage vehicles.
Clutch Components:
Wear items like clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing require periodic replacement, especially with spirited driving.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mitsubishi Motors:
Japanese automaker with a history of innovation in rally racing and performance vehicles, known for models like the Lancer Evolution and Eclipse.
Model Evolution
First Generation Development:
Developed as Mitsubishi's flagship sports car, intended to compete with the best from Europe and Japan. Designed by George Gallion.
Updates Through Years:
Received styling refreshes and performance enhancements throughout its production run, including updated aerodynamics, engine power increases for turbocharged models, and refinements to the electronic systems.
Production
Production Period:
1990-2000 (globally), 1991-1999 (North American market)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Ten Best:
Named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list multiple times during its production run, particularly for the turbocharged models.
Automotive Journalism:
Widely praised by automotive journalists for its performance, technology, and value proposition in the supercar segment during its era.