The Mitsubishi 3000GT (also known as GTO in Japan) was a flagship grand tourer sports car designed to compete with European performance coupes like the Porsche 964 and Nissan 300ZX. It was known for its advanced technology and exotic styling.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Mazda RX-7 (FD), Porsche 964, Chevrolet Corvette (C4).
Key Features
Key Features:
Available with naturally aspirated and twin-turbocharged V6 engines, optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) and four-wheel steering (4WS) on VR-4 models, advanced active aerodynamics (Active Aero System on some early models), sophisticated suspension systems.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Engine Cooling, Intake and Exhaust, Engine and Emission Control, Clutch, Manual Transaxle, Automatic Transaxle, Propeller Shaft, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Wheel and Tire, Brake, Steering, Suspension, Body, Frame, Heating and Air Conditioning, Electrical System, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Specifications, Wiring Diagrams
Page Count
Page Count:
Approximately 2500+ pages (estimated for complete factory service information)
Manual transaxle disassembly and assembly, gear ratios, shift linkage, transmission fluid specifications, repair of internal components.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transaxle disassembly and assembly, torque converter, valve body, transmission fluid specifications, electronic control unit (ECU) for transmission, repair of internal components.
Drivetrain AWD:
Viscous coupling unit (VCU) for AWD models, transfer case, differential components, propeller shaft, CV joints, wheel hubs.
Comprehensive factory-level detail, including disassembly, reassembly, specifications, torque values, diagnostic procedures, and wiring diagrams. Suitable for professional technicians and serious DIY enthusiasts.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High resolution for clear text and diagrams (typical for factory manuals).
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code Na:
6G72
Engine Type Na:
3.0L SOHC V6 (24-valve)
Engine Code Tt:
6G72TT
Engine Type Tt:
3.0L DOHC V6 Twin-Turbocharged (24-valve)
Performance Na
Horsepower Na:
Approximately 222 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Na:
Approximately 205 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Performance Tt
Horsepower Tt:
Approximately 300 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Tt:
Approximately 307 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended, especially for TT models)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Na:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Tt:
6-Speed Manual (Getrag) on VR-4 models
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic (with electronic control)
Transmission Type Tt Optional:
4-Speed Automatic (with electronic control) on VR-4 models
Features
AWD System:
Full-time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Transfer Clutch (ATC) on VR-4 models.
4Ws System:
Available Four-Wheel Steering (4WS) on VR-4 models, providing enhanced maneuverability.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
178.7 inches (4539 mm)
Width:
71.5 inches (1816 mm)
Height:
46.5 inches (1181 mm)
Wheelbase:
97.2 inches (2469 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Na:
Approximately 3461 lbs (1570 kg) for base models
Curb Weight Tt AWD:
Approximately 3792 lbs (1720 kg) for VR-4 models
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Driver Side Impact 1992:
4/5 Stars (Frontal Impact)
IIHS Ratings Period:
Not rated by IIHS for this period.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on VR-4 models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette tape player and optional CD player. Basic analog controls.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, Traction Control (on VR-4), Four-Wheel Steering (on VR-4), Cruise Control.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Limited to basic audio system connectivity. No modern Bluetooth or USB integration from the factory.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) using synthetic or synthetic blend oil.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years for the 6G72 and 6G72TT engines (critical for preventing catastrophic engine damage).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles (iridium or platinum plugs recommended).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type Capacity:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 recommended. Capacity: 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DIANAMIX Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with deionized water).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil recommended.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
DiaQueen ATF SP-III or equivalent ATF. Capacity: 3.6 US quarts (3.4 L) for fluid change, 8.3 US quarts (7.9 L) for overhaul.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron II ATF or equivalent power steering fluid.
Known Issues
Timing Belt Failure:
Critical component. Failure leads to severe engine damage due to piston-valve interference. Regular replacement is essential.
ECU Issues:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) can be prone to capacitor failure over time, leading to various drivability issues.
Active Aero Failure:
Early models' active aerodynamic components (pop-up spoiler, adjustable front lip) can fail due to motor or linkage issues.
Aws Issues:
The Active Four-Wheel Steering (4WS) system's rear-wheel steering rack and components can experience wear and leaks.
Clutch Wear:
Wear on clutch components is common with age and mileage, especially in performance driving. Clutch pedal assembly can also develop issues.
Turbocharger Issues Tt:
Twin-turbocharged models can experience turbocharger seal leaks, wastegate issues, or intercooler leaks if not properly maintained.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a history of producing innovative and performance-oriented vehicles, including rally cars and sports coupes. The 3000GT was a significant model in their push towards a global, premium image.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution Early:
Launched in 1990 (as a 1991 model in North America), initially featuring advanced technology like 4WS and Active Aero. The VR-4 model was the performance flagship.
Model Evolution Mid Cycle:
Facelifted for the 1994 model year with revised styling (fixed headlights, updated body kit), improved aerodynamics, and increased power for the twin-turbo engine. The Active Aero system was removed in favor of a more conventional rear spoiler.
Production
Production Period:
1990-2000 (Global), 1991-1996 (North America)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 1991 and 1992.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year Contender:
Considered a strong contender for various automotive awards during its production run due to its technological advancements.