🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mitsubishi Model: FTO Year: 1998 Market Segment: Compact Sports Coupe Generation Generation: First Generation (DE) Codes Chassis Code: DE2A, DE3A 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Mitsubishi FTO was a stylish, front-wheel-drive compact sports coupe, often marketed as a more affordable alternative to Japanese performance icons like the Toyota Supra or Nissan 300ZX. Its design was heavily influenced by Mitsubishi's rally heritage. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Primary competitors included the Toyota Celica GT-Four (though the FTO was often positioned slightly below it), Honda Prelude, Mazda MX-6, and Nissan 240SX (Silvia). Key Features Design: Distinctive styling with flush headlights, a low-slung profile, and a sporty cockpit. Many models featured advanced aerodynamics and aggressive body kits. Powertrain: Known for its smooth and potent V6 engines (6A12 MIVEC, 6A13), offering a significant performance advantage over many four-cylinder rivals in its class. Manual Value Proposition Benefit: Provides the same professional technical service and repair information used by Mitsubishi dealerships, empowering owners to perform maintenance and repairs accurately and cost-effectively. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Focus: Comprehensive Service, Repair, and Maintenance Systems Listed: General, Engine, Engine Lubrication, Fuel, Engine Cooling, Intake and Exhaust, Engine Electrical, Emission Control, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Wheel and Tyre, Power Plant Mount, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Service Brakes, Parking Brakes, Steering, Body, Exterior, Interior and Supplemental Restraint System, Chassis Electrical, Heater, Air Conditioner and Ventilation Page Count Estimated Pages: Likely 1000+ pages (typical for factory service manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM) Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Detailed information on engine disassembly, assembly, overhaul, timing belt replacement, component testing, and specifications for V6 engines (6A12, 6A13) and potentially the 4-cylinder (4G93) if applicable to 1998. Engine Electrical: Wiring diagrams, ignition system diagnostics, starting and charging systems, sensor testing (MAP, TPS, Crank/Cam sensors), ECU troubleshooting. Transmission: Comprehensive coverage for both manual (e.g., KM132, W1C1) and INVECS-II automatic transmissions, including shifting mechanisms, hydraulics, torque converter, diagnostics, and fluid specifications. Brakes: Service procedures for front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components, hydraulic circuits, caliper and rotor servicing, parking brake mechanisms. Suspension Steering: Detailed diagrams and procedures for front MacPherson strut and multi-link rear suspension, steering rack overhaul, power steering system service, wheel alignment specifications. Body Interior Exterior: Panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, seat adjustments, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) component locations and safety precautions, interior trim removal, exterior trim, bumpers, lighting. Chassis Electrical: Instrument panel cluster diagnostics, lighting circuits, power windows, central locking, audio systems, fuse and relay locations, body control module (BCM) if applicable. HVAC: Air conditioning system servicing, refrigerant handling, heater core replacement, ventilation system components, blower motor, control panel diagnostics. Procedures Included Diagnostic Procedures: Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) explanation and clearing procedures, component testing using multimeters and specialized equipment. Repair Procedures: Detailed, illustrated instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment, including engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension work, and body panel replacement. Maintenance Schedules: Recommended service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, timing belt replacement, and other routine maintenance tasks. Technical Specifications: Precise torque values for fasteners, engine timing specifications, fluid capacities and types, electrical component resistance values, dimension specifications. Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive and clear electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, aiding in diagnosing electrical faults. Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level technical detail, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Compatibility: All PC based Windows operating systems and Mac. Requirements: Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip Print Quality Resolution: High resolution for clear printing Readability: Easy-to-read text sections with top-quality diagrams Binding Type Type: Digital Download (can be burned to CD) Paper Type Type: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: 6A12 Engine Type: DOHC 24-valve V6 Displacement: 2.0 Liters (1998 cc) Aspiration: Naturally Aspirated (and Twin-Turbo for GPX/GR/GX variants) Valvetrain: MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) on some performance variants (e.g., GPX) Performance Horsepower Naturally Aspirated: Approx. 170-197 hp (depending on market and variant) Horsepower Twin Turbo: Approx. 220-247 hp (for GPX models) Torque Naturally Aspirated: Approx. 192-201 Nm (142-148 lb-ft) Torque Twin Turbo: Approx. 270-289 Nm (199-213 lb-ft) Fuel System Injection Type: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Engine Lubrication Oil Type: Refer to manual for specific API/ILSAC classifications and viscosity grades (e.g., 10W-30, 5W-30 recommended) Engine Cooling Coolant Type: Ethylene Glycol based coolant (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water) Intake Exhaust Exhaust System: Dual exhaust on some performance models, catalytic converter for emissions compliance. 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Type: INVECS-II (Intelligent & Versatile Engine Control...
The Mitsubishi FTO was a stylish, front-wheel-drive compact sports coupe, often marketed as a more affordable alternative to Japanese performance icons like the Toyota Supra or Nissan 300ZX. Its design was heavily influenced by Mitsubishi's rally heritage.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Primary competitors included the Toyota Celica GT-Four (though the FTO was often positioned slightly below it), Honda Prelude, Mazda MX-6, and Nissan 240SX (Silvia).
Key Features
Design:
Distinctive styling with flush headlights, a low-slung profile, and a sporty cockpit. Many models featured advanced aerodynamics and aggressive body kits.
Powertrain:
Known for its smooth and potent V6 engines (6A12 MIVEC, 6A13), offering a significant performance advantage over many four-cylinder rivals in its class.
Manual Value Proposition
Benefit:
Provides the same professional technical service and repair information used by Mitsubishi dealerships, empowering owners to perform maintenance and repairs accurately and cost-effectively.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Focus:
Comprehensive Service, Repair, and Maintenance
Systems Listed:
General, Engine, Engine Lubrication, Fuel, Engine Cooling, Intake and Exhaust, Engine Electrical, Emission Control, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Wheel and Tyre, Power Plant Mount, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Service Brakes, Parking Brakes, Steering, Body, Exterior, Interior and Supplemental Restraint System, Chassis Electrical, Heater, Air Conditioner and Ventilation
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
Likely 1000+ pages (typical for factory service manuals of this era)
Manual Type
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed information on engine disassembly, assembly, overhaul, timing belt replacement, component testing, and specifications for V6 engines (6A12, 6A13) and potentially the 4-cylinder (4G93) if applicable to 1998.
Engine Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system diagnostics, starting and charging systems, sensor testing (MAP, TPS, Crank/Cam sensors), ECU troubleshooting.
Transmission:
Comprehensive coverage for both manual (e.g., KM132, W1C1) and INVECS-II automatic transmissions, including shifting mechanisms, hydraulics, torque converter, diagnostics, and fluid specifications.
Brakes:
Service procedures for front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components, hydraulic circuits, caliper and rotor servicing, parking brake mechanisms.
Suspension Steering:
Detailed diagrams and procedures for front MacPherson strut and multi-link rear suspension, steering rack overhaul, power steering system service, wheel alignment specifications.
Body Interior Exterior:
Panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, seat adjustments, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) component locations and safety precautions, interior trim removal, exterior trim, bumpers, lighting.
Chassis Electrical:
Instrument panel cluster diagnostics, lighting circuits, power windows, central locking, audio systems, fuse and relay locations, body control module (BCM) if applicable.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system servicing, refrigerant handling, heater core replacement, ventilation system components, blower motor, control panel diagnostics.
Procedures Included
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) explanation and clearing procedures, component testing using multimeters and specialized equipment.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed, illustrated instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment, including engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension work, and body panel replacement.
Maintenance Schedules:
Recommended service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, timing belt replacement, and other routine maintenance tasks.
Technical Specifications:
Precise torque values for fasteners, engine timing specifications, fluid capacities and types, electrical component resistance values, dimension specifications.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and clear electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, aiding in diagnosing electrical faults.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Factory-level technical detail, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF
Compatibility:
All PC based Windows operating systems and Mac.
Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip
Print Quality
Resolution:
High resolution for clear printing
Readability:
Easy-to-read text sections with top-quality diagrams
Binding Type
Type:
Digital Download (can be burned to CD)
Paper Type
Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
6A12
Engine Type:
DOHC 24-valve V6
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
Aspiration:
Naturally Aspirated (and Twin-Turbo for GPX/GR/GX variants)
Valvetrain:
MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) on some performance variants (e.g., GPX)
Performance
Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:
Approx. 170-197 hp (depending on market and variant)
Horsepower Twin Turbo:
Approx. 220-247 hp (for GPX models)
Torque Naturally Aspirated:
Approx. 192-201 Nm (142-148 lb-ft)
Torque Twin Turbo:
Approx. 270-289 Nm (199-213 lb-ft)
Fuel System
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Lubrication
Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific API/ILSAC classifications and viscosity grades (e.g., 10W-30, 5W-30 recommended)
Engine Cooling
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Intake Exhaust
Exhaust System:
Dual exhaust on some performance models, catalytic converter for emissions compliance.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Type:
INVECS-II (Intelligent & Versatile Engine Control system) 4-speed Automatic with Sports Mode (and Sequential Shifting on some later models)
Features
All Wheel Drive:
While primarily front-wheel-drive, some markets and specific high-performance variants (e.g., Ralliart FTO) featured optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD) systems, often with Active Yaw Control (AYC).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil specifications and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen SP-II or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) – specific grade required, consult manual.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4,300 mm (169.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,745 mm (68.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,300 mm (51.2 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,500 mm (98.4 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,250-1,400 kg (2,755-3,086 lbs), depending on trim and options
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rating:
No comprehensive NHTSA crash test data available for this specific model year and market.
Active Features
ABS:
Available on most trims, Anti-lock Braking System
Ayc:
Active Yaw Control (AYC) available on higher performance models (e.g., GPX), enhancing cornering stability.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags generally standard on later models, including 1998. Specific availability may vary by market.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette player, with options for CD players on higher trims or as aftermarket upgrades. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
Driver Assistance
Advanced Features:
INVECS-II transmission with 'Sports Mode' for more responsive gear changes, optional Active Yaw Control (AYC) for enhanced handling dynamics.
Connectivity
Features:
Limited by the era; primarily focused on basic vehicle functions. No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for precise intervals.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical interval, usually 80,000-100,000 km (50,000-60,000 miles) or 5-7 years due to potential for severe engine damage if it fails.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Recommended every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles) or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Recommended every 60,000-80,000 km (37,000-50,000 miles).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0-4.5 liters (4.2-4.8 US quarts) for 6A12/6A13 engines, check manual for exact capacity with filter change.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.0-7.0 liters (6.3-7.4 US quarts), check manual for exact capacity.
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Timing belt failure (critical), MIVEC system issues (on applicable engines), gearbox synchromesh wear (especially on manual transmissions), corrosion on body panels in certain climates, aging electrical components, and potential for worn suspension bushings due to age.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a strong heritage in motorsport and performance vehicles, which influenced the FTO's sporty character and engineering, particularly the MIVEC and AYC technologies. The FTO was designed to be a showcase for Mitsubishi's engineering prowess.
Model Evolution
Introduction:
The Mitsubishi FTO was first introduced in October 1994 as a successor to the Mitsubishi Eclipse (for the Japanese market) and was not officially sold in North America. It received a significant facelift in 1997.
1998 Model Year Updates:
The 1998 model falls under the post-facelift (1997 onwards) generation, which featured updated styling, improved interior appointments, and revised mechanicals, including potential enhancements to the INVECS-II transmission.
Production
Production Years:
1994-2000
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Jdm Car Of The Year:
The Mitsubishi FTO was awarded the 'Car of the Year' prize by the Japanese RJC (Automotive Researchers' and Journalists' Conference) in 1995.