INVECS (Intelligent & Innovative Vehicle Electronic Control System) is the brand name used by Mitsubishi Motors for its electronic automatic transmission technology.
128-501: The first generation of INVECS debuted in the seventh generation of the Mitsubishi Galant , which was introduced in 1992. An array of sensors continuously monitored six parameters and, using " fuzzy logic ", adapted the shift patterns in the automatic gearbox "on the fly" according to the driver's style. The four-wheel drive , four-wheel steering , traction control system and suspension were all similarly adapted based on
256-419: A fully-automatic mode, or a clutchless manual mode if the driver wished to control the up- and down-shift points. It also offered the same Adaptive Shift Control software which monitored and "learned" the driver's habits over time and adjusted the smoothness or aggression of the gearshifts to suit their driving style. It was first implemented in the new Mitsubishi FTO in 1994. The third version of INVECS
384-516: A manual or automatic transmission and live axle rear end. The suspension was by unequal-length control arms with front coil springs while the live rear axle was mounted on leaf springs . The rack and pinion steering optionally had power assist , as did the brakes. On September 11, 1970, Ford introduced the Pinto under the tagline The Little Carefree Car. After structural design on alternate body styles encountered obstacles, Ford offered
512-579: A rebadged variant of the Pinto as the Mercury Bobcat, beginning with the 1974 model year in Canada. It was produced in all of the same body styles and styled with a unique egg-crate grille and chrome headlamp bezels (which were later recycled for a styling update to the 1976 Pinto). The rear featured modified double-width tail lamps for the sedan and Runabout models. For 1975, the Bobcat was added to
640-598: A choice of transmissions and trim. As elsewhere, the wagon versions carried over the old body style with a new nose and interior. Production of the wagon version continued in Australia until 1987 when it was replaced by the new Magna . From 1982 to 1983, some of the Australian Sigmas, which had the carried-over 2.0 or 2.6-litre locally made inline-four engine , were exported to the United Kingdom with
768-731: A claimed realistic 85 PS (63 kW) in Europe, fewer than the 1.6 in Japan. Introduced in 1980, Mitsubishi's fourth iteration of the Galant Σ (Sigma)/Eterna Σ (Sigma) debuted many new innovations for Mitsubishi. The car was sold as the Mitsubishi Galant in most export markets, although in both Australia and New Zealand it was known as the Mitsubishi Sigma. The fourth generation sedan and coupé were both slightly larger than
896-554: A copy of the memo by Grimshaw v. Ford Motor Co. plaintiffs before trial, Mark Dowie's investigative article "Pinto Madness", published in Mother Jones magazine, emphasized the emotional aspects of the Grush/Saunby Report and implied Ford was callously trading lives for profits. The Mother Jones article also erroneously claimed that somewhere between 500 and 900 persons had been killed in fires attributed to
1024-440: A deluxe interior with wood-tone trim. New slotted forged aluminum wheels were offered. In 1974, to meet federal regulations, 5 mph bumpers were added to both the front and rear. Unlike most 1970s cars, the addition of larger bumpers to the Pinto did not necessitate major changes to the bodywork. While the underpowered Kent engine was dropped, the optional OHC engine was expanded to 2.3 L; in various forms, this engine powered
1152-526: A deluxe steering wheel. The Sprint Decor Group was offered simultaneously on the Maverick and Mustang. For the 1973 model year, more appearance options were offered. There was a new Sport Accent Group offered in white exterior paint with a choice of two-tone orange or avocado accent paint, matching vinyl roof , and a deluxe interior with wood-tone trim. There was also a new Luxury Decor Group with bright exterior dress-up mouldings, black bumper rub strips, and
1280-418: A five-speed manual transmission as standard with three-speed auto optional. These were the first NZ-assembled Mitsubishis to have rear screen demisters as standard. Early cars had conventional rod-suspended headliners developed locally to meet local content rules but these were notorious for collapsing on to the passengers' heads and were quickly replaced by newly developed, glued-in moulded foam liners. The range
1408-467: A five-speed manual transmission as well as leather upholstery. This generation was largely replaced in 1988 by the sixth generation Galant (see below). The widened Australian-made version, however, remained in production until 1991 when it was replaced by a new generation Magna, whereas the Japanese hardtop range was produced until it was replaced by the new Sigma/Diamante version in 1990. In addition,
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#17327795519811536-413: A five-speed unit for sportier models. A three-speed automatic transmission was also available. The smaller 1600 engine was also available in the cleaner " MCA-II " version right from 1973, a model which met Japan's 1975 emissions standards. This version was marginally less powerful, with 97 PS (71 kW) rather than the 100 PS (74 kW) engine seen in the previous model. This new Galant model
1664-603: A lack of structural reinforcement in the rear, and an "essentially ornamental" rear bumper (though similar to other manufacturers). As part of a response to the NHTSA's proposed regulations, crash testing conducted in 1970 with modified Ford Mavericks demonstrated vulnerability at fairly low crash speeds. Design changes were made, but post-launch tests showed similar results. These tests were conducted to develop crash testing standards rather than specifically investigating fuel system integrity. Though Ford engineers were not pleased with
1792-433: A light update and a reshuffle of the models. There was a base L model and a better equipped LG with body-colored bumpers. The modification included three-point belts in the rear seat, a high-mounted brake light, adjusted gearing, a flattened rear seat squab, larger radiator, and a larger washer fluid tank, amongst other detail improvements. A five-speed manual, or three- or four-speed automatics were on offer. Target production
1920-399: A move away from British and Australian sourced Chrysler products, with the four-door replacing the locally built Chrysler Vogue . Only three months later, Chrysler South Africa ceased operations. Mitsubishi production was continued by the new Sigma Motor Corporation . The third generation of the car was introduced in 1976, and was known as Galant Σ (Sigma) . In many export markets the car
2048-547: A multi-link structure featuring two lower arms and one upper arm. The rear switched from a beam axle to a newly designed multi-link system. This was the world's first 4-wheel multi-link suspension in an FF car. Both designs would carry over to the second generation Mitsubishi Eclipse and its sister vehicles. Ford Pinto The Ford Pinto is a subcompact car that was manufactured and marketed by Ford Motor Company in North America from 1970 until 1980. The Pinto
2176-544: A narrow strip on the tailgate only. In New Zealand the hardtop, now with an 1855 cc engine was again assembled by Todd Motors at Porirua. The sedan was not offered as Todd was planning to assemble the larger Galant Sigma sedan and wagon range from late 1977 and they were still importing the British Avenger and Hunter models. In South Africa, the Dodge Colt 1600 GS arrived in late 1975 (YB series) to replace
2304-452: A negative legacy associated with the car and Ford's handling of the controversies. In 2004, Forbes included the Pinto among its fourteen Worst Cars of All Time, noting that its problems helped create an opening in the US market for small cars from Japan. Time magazine included the Pinto on lists of The Fifty Worst Cars of All Time . Time , Popular Mechanics , and NBC News have included
2432-477: A new rectangular design with a modified dash pad. Production of the Bobcat ended in 1980 to make way for its replacement, the Mercury Lynx . In total, 224,026 Bobcats were produced from 1975 until 1980. Upon release, the Pinto was received with both positive and negative reviews. Consumer Reports listed the Pinto as one of the "runners up" in a test of six subcompact cars—better in overall quality than
2560-435: A problem with fuel vapors in the engine air filter possibly igniting by a backfire through the carburetor . On February 24, 1972, the Pinto station wagon debuted with an overall length of 172.7 in (4,390 mm) and 60.5 cubic feet (1.71 m ) of cargo volume. The first 2-door Ford station wagon since the 1965 Falcon, the Pinto wagon was equipped with flip-open rear quarter windows. Along with front disc brakes,
2688-645: A redesigned cylinder head which appeared in 1982 took care of the problems. This model proved very popular in some markets, such as the BeNeLux countries, where it helped establish Mitsubishi in general and the Galant in particular. For the second generation in a row Mitsubishi could claim to be building an award-winning car, as this was chosen as Car of the Year in New Zealand in 1981. The cars sold there were again locally assembled with 1.6 and two-litre engines, and
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#17327795519812816-408: A running change in 1985 on this model. Further running changes concerned the rear styling. For the initial 1984 production run the rear numberplate was located above the bumper, however for 1985 and 1986 the plate was relocated to below the bumper, in the manner of the Japanese domestic market Galant models. New taillights were fitted for 1987, the rear numberplate reverting to its original place above
2944-686: A second Pinto investigation and guaranteed that the NHTSA would be under the microscope for its duration." On August 11, 1977, the day after the Nader and Mother Jones press conference, the NHTSA initiated an investigation. On May 8, 1978, the NHTSA informed Ford of their determination that the Pinto fuel system was defective. The NHTSA concluded: 1971–1976 Ford Pintos have experienced moderate speed, rear-end collisions that have resulted in fuel tank damage, fuel leakage, and fire occurrences that have resulted in fatalities and non-fatal burn injuries ... The fuel tank design and structural characteristics of
3072-640: A single model year, with 544,209 units. The Ford Pinto went on sale on September 11, 1970, in one body style, a fastback sedan with an enclosed trunk. A hatchback became available on February 20, 1971, debuting at the Chicago Auto Show . In 1971, the Pinto brochure came with a paper cutout Pinto that one could fold to make a 3D model. Marketed as the Runabout, the hatchback went on sale five days later, priced at $ 2,062 ($ 15,513 in 2023 dollars ). The hatch itself featured exposed chrome hinges for
3200-464: A trim level for this model called "VX-R", offered a 2.0 L MIVEC version of the 6A12 , a high revving naturally aspirated V6 engine with more aggressive tuning. This engine is also found on Mitsubishi's midsize sports car FTO 's GP trim levels which introduced in 1994. Output was placed at 200 hp (149 kW) and 147 lb⋅ft (199 N⋅m) of torque. This generation marked a substantial change in suspension design. The front switched from struts to
3328-490: A variety of Ford vehicles for 23 years. In 1974, Mercury began selling a rebadged version of the Pinto called Bobcat as a Canada-only model. 544,209 units sold; 1974 became the most popular model year for the Pinto. Steel-belted tires, an anti-theft alarm system, and metallic glow paint were optional. In 1975, in a move to better compete with the AMC Gremlin, Ford introduced the 2.8 L V6; while far less powerful than
3456-580: A view that the crash test results were inconclusive, resulted in the use of a conventional fuel tank design and placement. The use of an above-the-axle tank location was considered safer by some, but not all, at Ford. This placement was not a viable option for the hatchback and station wagon body styles. Beginning in 1973, field reports of Ford Pintos consumed by fire after low-speed rear-end collisions were received by Ford's recall coordinator office. Based on standard procedures used to evaluate field reports, Ford's internal recall evaluation group twice reviewed
3584-458: A year after introduction. European and rest-of-the-world trim levels were often engine-specific, depending on the market: At the time of introduction, GL and GLX models were offered with either 1.6-litre or 1.8-litre engines, GLS models had 2.0-litre engines (badged 2000 GLS; in some markets there was also a 2000 GLX) and Diesel versions had a 1.8-litre Sirius turbo-diesel engine. The diesel model received GL or GLX trim, although in some markets it
3712-569: The AMC Gremlin and about on a par with the Volkswagen Beetle , but inferior to the "three winners" -- Datsun 510 , Toyota Corona and Chevrolet Vega . Road & Track faulted the suspension and standard drum brakes , calling the latter a "serious deficiency", but praised the proven 1.6 L Kent engine, adapted from European Fords. Super Stock Magazine found the fit and finish to be "superior" and were impressed with
3840-569: The AMC Gremlin that arrived six months before the Pinto, and the Chevrolet Vega , introduced the day before the Pinto. Named for the pony , the Pinto was introduced on September 11, 1970. It was a completely new platform, but used a powertrain from the European-specification Escort . Ford Chairman Henry Ford II himself purchased a 1971 Runabout (hatchback) as one of his personal cars. Initial planning for
3968-572: The Car of the Year Japan award in 1987 and the GS model became Motor Trend ' s Import Car of the Year in 1989. This Galant began American sales in 1989, side by side with the previous generation Sigma. Mitsubishi developed Dynamic ECS adaptive air suspension , the world's first production semi-active electronically controlled suspension system in passenger cars; the system was first incorporated in
INVECS - Misplaced Pages Continue
4096-657: The Chevrolet Vega , and the AMC Gremlin . It was also produced by Chrysler Australia and sold alongside the larger Chrysler Valiant models as the Chrysler Valiant Galant. In South Africa, the A53 Colt Galant arrived in late 1972 as the Dodge Colt 1600 GS (AY series). The car had already been rallied there, in 1300 and 1600 forms, and only the Hardtop GS version was sold to capitalize on
4224-553: The Ford Falcon , Ford Maverick , Chevrolet Corvair and Plymouth Valiant , although these cars featured six-cylinder engines and comprised a larger vehicle class. As the popularity of smaller Japanese imports Toyota Corolla and Datsun 510 increased throughout the 1960s, Ford North America responded by introducing the Cortina from Ford of Europe as a captive import . American automakers introduced their subcompacts, led by
4352-503: The Lonsdale badge, in en effort at circumventing the voluntary import quota restrictions adopted by Japanese manufacturers. However the car was unsuccessful, and for 1983 and 1984 it carried Mitsubishi Sigma badges in the UK before imports were finally discontinued. The two door coupé was also redesigned for 1980 and was sold through 1983. While continuing with the Galant Λ/Eterna Λ label for
4480-552: The Mitsubishi Debonair limousine. For the top-of-the-line VR models, an intercooled turbo-charged 4G63T "Sirius Dash 3x2" engine that automatically switched between two and three valves per cylinder depending upon throttle response and therefore allowing both economy and performance, was fitted, along with self-levelling suspension , climate-controlled air-conditioning, blue velour interior, steering wheel-controlled audio functions, and 15-inch alloy wheels. From 1985,
4608-695: The Tokyo Motor Show (model year 1994 in the US), originally only available as a four-door sedan (which was the only model to be sold in the US). A five-door liftback derivative made its world premiere at the February 1993 Dutch Motor Show . A Japan-only hardtop derivative called the ( Japanese : Emeraude ) (French for emerald ) was also launched in 1992. The width dimensions of the model sold in Japan no longer complied with Japanese government dimension regulations . In October 1993, Mitsubishi introduced
4736-445: The "Pinto Memo". Cost-benefit analysis was one tool used in the evaluation of safety design decisions accepted by the industry and the NHTSA. The analysis compared the cost of repairs to the societal costs for injuries and deaths related to fires in cases of vehicle rollovers for all cars sold in the US by all manufacturers. The values assigned to serious burn injuries and loss of life were based on values calculated by NHTSA in 1972. In
4864-501: The 1987 Galant model. The Galant range underwent a minor facelift in 1991, with new grilles and other modifications. Also in 1991, Mitsubishi Motors Company completed a new assembly facility at Barcelona, Venezuela , with the Galant being one of the first models produced. It was sold there until 1994 under the ZX, MF, MS and MX names, which identified the various levels of equipment and transmission. The Sigma designation disappeared with
4992-497: The 1988 model year, but the "Sigma" version with updated alloy wheels began US sales in August 1988 for the 1989 model year and continued until 1990. These cars were available with a 3.0-liter V6 (North America, only with automatic transmission) or 2.4-liter four-cylinder engines (Europe) in the export. In the domestic Japanese market the hardtops received 2.0-litre fours, or the smaller 2.0-litre 6G71 V6 engine from 1986, shared with
5120-517: The 1990 model. A new hardtop liftback model was added in 1988, called the ( Japanese : Mitsubishi Eterna ) . and in Japan, the Eterna was only sold at a specific retail chain called Car Plaza . This generation Galant was also sold in Canada as the Dodge 2000 GTX and Eagle 2000 GTX . The five-door liftback version was never offered in North America, where buyers prefer traditional sedans. In most of
5248-649: The 2.0L engine was standard equipment. A Pinto Squire wagon featured simulated woodgrain trim similar to the full-size Country Squire . Also in February 1972, the Sprint Decor Group was made available for the Pinto for one model year only. The Sprint Decor Group included white exterior paint with blue accent paint and red pin-striping, a blacked-out grille, color-keyed wheels with bright trim rings and hubcaps, whitewall tires , and color-keyed dual sport mirrors. The interior included red, white, and blue cloth and vinyl bucket seats, full carpeting as well as
INVECS - Misplaced Pages Continue
5376-610: The 2.3 litres (140 cu in) OHC I4 engine was introduced. This engine was updated and modified several times, allowing it to remain in production into 1997. Among other Ford vehicles, a turbocharged version of this engine later powered the performance-based Thunderbird Turbo Coupe , Mustang SVO , and the European-built Merkur XR4Ti . Ford introduced the Cologne-built 2.8 litre V-6 engine as an option in 1975. Lincoln-Mercury dealers marketed
5504-562: The 200 PS (147 kW) (JIS gross, later only 170 PS were claimed) turbocharged and intercooled " Sirius Dash 3/2 valve " engine. This engine switched between using two and three valves per cylinder to combine high top-end power with low-end drivability as well being economical in operation. Beginning in October 1986, the all-new 2-liter Cyclone V6 engine was installed in the Galant/Eterna, sedans as well as hardtops. Some of
5632-662: The Colt Galant, was released in December 1969 at a new Mitsubishi Japanese dealership called Galant Shop . The design was dubbed "Dynawedge" by Mitsubishi, referring to the influence of aerodynamics on the silhouette. Three models were available, powered by the new 'Saturn' engine in 1.3- ( AI model) or 1.5-liter ( AII and AIII ) configurations. 1.4- and 1.6-liter versions (14L and 16L) replaced these in September 1971. A larger 115 PS (85 kW) 1.7-liter arrived for
5760-558: The Elante suspension pack, which was an option on other models. For 1990, the V3000 was further updated and now featured the front styling of the Eterna hardtop. New Zealand was the only market where this restyling was applied to the fifth generation four-door sedan bodyshell. Assembly of this model continued until 1991, when it was replaced by the second-generation Australian Mitsubishi Magna TR V6 range, which continued to be known as V3000 for
5888-545: The English 1,600 cc (98 cu in) and German 2,000 cc (120 cu in) engines tuned for performance (see below). The 2,000 cc (120 cu in) engine used a two-barrel carburetor where just one bore was bigger than that used on the Maverick. With the low weight (not much above 2,000 lb (910 kg)) and the SOHC engine it accelerated from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) in 10.8 seconds. With
6016-481: The Galant range received a new variant in March 1978, known as Galant Sigma Eterna. This model has single rectangular headlights and different taillights. This model also sold as facelift model for selected markets in Europe, New Zealand and South America. Seven months later the twin round headlights front design was replaced with one featuring twin square headlights and also new taillights. Models with engines which passed
6144-777: The Gremlin's standard 232 cu in (3.8 L) I6, the V6 gave the Pinto a feature unavailable in the Chevrolet Vega. Sales of the Mercury Bobcat were expanded to Lincoln-Mercury dealers in the United States; it was sold as a hatchback and station wagon. As a minor styling update for 1976, the Pinto received the egg-crate grille and chrome headlamp bezels recycled from the Canada-only 1974 Mercury Bobcat. For one model year only, two new option packages were offered. One
6272-544: The Mitsubishi Sigma. Australian content was quite high and included a locally-made 2.6-litre 'Astron' four (introduced 1980) which, in December 1985, replaced the 1.6, 1.85 and two-litre engines used in other export markets. The wagon version was introduced in 1977, a little while after the sedans. A new two-door coupé was introduced in 1976 to replace the Galant GTO. It was known in Japan as the Galant Λ (Lambda) . The coupé
6400-466: The NHTSA investigation of the Pinto was in response to consumer complaints and noted the Mother Jones article included a clip out "coupon" that readers could mail to the NHTSA. Lee and Ermann note that the Mother Jones labeling of the Pinto as a "firetrap" and accusations that the NHTSA was buckling to industry pressure as well as the public interest created by sensationalized news stories "forced
6528-409: The New Zealand market. The hardtop sedan bodywork was used in export markets as well, where it received a six-window design unlike for its Japanese market counterparts. It was marketed under different names; "Galant Σ" or "Eterna Σ" (Sigma) in Japan, "Sapporo" in Europe, and in the US as "Galant Σ" (1988 model year) followed by plain "Sigma" (1989 to 1990 model years). The "Galant Σ" was released for
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#17327795519816656-466: The Pinto began in the summer of 1967, was recommended by Ford's Product Planning Committee in December 1968, and was approved by Ford's board of directors in January 1969. Ford President Lee Iacocca wanted a 1971 model that weighed under 2,000 lb (907 kg) and that would be priced at less than US$ 2,000 ($ 16,617 in 2023 dollars ). The Pinto product development, from conception through delivery,
6784-549: The Pinto fuel system was complicated by the uncertain regulatory environment during the development period. The first federal standard for automotive fuel system safety, passed in 1967, known as Section 301 in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards , initially only considered front impacts. In January 1969, 18 months into the Pinto's development cycle, the NHTSA proposed expanding the standard to cover rear-end collisions. The proposed standard
6912-591: The Pinto solely as a two-door sedan, with entry-level models priced at $ 1,850, undercutting GM's Chevrolet Vega and directly targeting imported models – which included such new competitors as the Mazda 1200 in 1971, the Subaru DL in 1972, and the Honda Civic in 1973. The Pinto had sold over 100,000 units by January 1971, and 352,402 for the entire 1971 production run; 1974 saw the most Pintos produced in
7040-417: The Pinto was the front-wheel drive Ford Escort . For the 1980 model year, the V6 engine was discontinued, leaving the 2.3 L as the sole engine. Except for 1980, the Pinto was available with a choice of two engines. For the first five years of production, only four-cylinder inline engines were offered. Ford changed the power ratings almost every year. Initial Pinto deliveries in the early years used
7168-565: The Pinto was no longer the smallest Ford sold in the U.S., as the company introduced the Fiesta . Nearly two feet shorter than the Pinto, the German-designed Fiesta was the first front-wheel-drive car sold by Ford in the United States. For the 1979 model year, the Pinto featured rectangular headlamps, inboard vertical parking lamps, and a taller slanted back grille. Except for the wagons, the tail lamps were revised. The interior
7296-547: The Pinto's unique design features. The public understanding of the cost-benefit analysis has contributed to the mythology of the Ford Pinto case. Time magazine said the memo was one of the automotive industry's "most notorious paper trails". A common misconception is that the document considered Ford's tort liability costs rather than the generalized cost to society and applied to the annual sales of all passenger cars, not just Ford vehicles. The general misunderstanding of
7424-539: The U.S. market and sold initially in upgraded levels of trim as the Runabout hatchback and Villager wagon. Lesser-trimmed versions were offered in subsequent model years. The Bobcat was never offered as a two-door sedan with an enclosed trunk for the U.S. market. The Bobcat was offered as a two-door sedan for a limited number of years in Canada. All Bobcats were restyled with a domed hood and a taller vertical bar grille styled to look like senior Mercury models. Throughout all
7552-411: The V6 variants received electrically retractable door mirrors and electronically controlled power steering. Sales in the United States began with the 1985 model year; this was the first time that the Galant series was sold stateside since the station wagon was marketed as a Dodge Colt a few years earlier. New for 1987 (the last model year for this generation) were redesigned seats and the availability of
7680-617: The VR-4 interior, exterior design and updated bumpers (without side skirts), clear indicator lens covers, optional two-tone body paint, as well as standard air conditioning, full electrics, rear windscreen wiper, spoiler and alloy wheels. Fans sometimes call this car the "Evo Zero" but this was never more than a nickname as the Evolution series is Lancer-based. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash test ratings for 1991–1992 Galant: A new Galant debuted in September 1992 at
7808-470: The advent of emission control requirements, Ford moved from European-sourced to domestically sourced engines, using new or modified designs. New safety legislation affected bumpers and other parts, adding to the weight of the car and reducing performance. Revised SAE standards in 1972 dropped the Pinto's 1.6 L (98 cu in) engine to 54 bhp (40 kW) – and the 2.0 L (120 cu in) engine to 86 hp (64 kW). In 1974,
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#17327795519817936-484: The bumper. 1987 was a key year for Mitsubishi in New Zealand, when it bought out Todd Motors' automotive operations. Although the sixth generation Galant was introduced for 1988, the older fifth generation bodyshell stayed in production alongside it. Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand intentionally decided to retain the fifth generation sedan bodystyle for a new, unique to New Zealand, flagship model—the 110 kW (150 hp) 3.0-liter V6 engined Mitsubishi V3000 . The V3000
8064-510: The car in lists of most significant recalls. The controversy also resulted in movies referencing the vehicle. The safety of the design of the Pinto's fuel system led to critical incidents and subsequently resulted in a recall, lawsuits, criminal prosecution, and public controversy. The events surrounding the controversy have been described as a "landmark narrative". The Ford Pinto has been cited and debated in numerous business ethics as well as tort reform case studies. The placement of
8192-418: The car overall. Car and Driver found the Pinto, when equipped with the larger 2.0L engine and front disc brakes, to be a nimble and powerful commuter car with good visibility and sports-car feel. A review of the 1974 Pinto with an automatic transmission by Car and Driver was not as favorable noting significant decreases in mileage and acceleration. The later controversy surrounding the Pinto resulted in
8320-505: The car's fuel tank was the result of both conservative industry practice of the time as well as the uncertain regulatory environment during the development and early sales periods of the car. Ford was accused of knowing the car had an unsafe tank placement and then forgoing design changes based on an internal cost-benefit analysis. Two landmark legal cases, Grimshaw v. Ford Motor Co. and Indiana v. Ford Motor Co. , resulted from fatal accidents involving Pintos. Scholarly work published in
8448-473: The car's performance, no reports of the time indicate particular concern. The Pinto was tested by rival American Motors (AMC) where in addition to crash-testing, engineers specialized in fuel-system performance because of the potential deadly fires in severe collisions. Ford also tested several different vehicle modifications that could improve rear impact performance. However, the engineer's occupational caution and aversion to "unproven" solutions, as well as
8576-473: The car's sporty image. Gross power claimed was 97 PS (71 kW) at 6700 rpm and the car was fitted with Rostyle wheels as also used on locally assembled Hillman Vogues . From 1970, a fastback coupé model was developed, the Galant GTO . Fashioned after contemporary American muscle cars , the hardtop GTO was available with a choice of two "Saturn" engines and the 2-litre Astron 80 , and
8704-623: The combined totals of its domestic rivals, the Chevrolet Vega and the AMC Gremlin . The Pinto and Mercury Bobcat were produced at Edison Assembly in Edison, New Jersey, St. Thomas Assembly in Southwold, Ontario, and San Jose Assembly in Milpitas, California. Since the 1970s, the safety reputation of the Pinto has generated controversy. Its fuel-tank design attracted both media and government scrutiny after several deadly fires occurred when
8832-463: The decades after the Pinto's release has examined the cases and offered summations of the general understanding of the Pinto and the controversy regarding the car's safety performance and risk of fire. These works reviewed misunderstandings related to the actual number of fire-related deaths related to the fuel system design, "wild and unsupported claims asserted in Pinto Madness and elsewhere",
8960-571: The document, as presented by Mother Jones, gave it an operational significance it never had. In April 1974, the Center for Auto Safety petitioned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to recall Ford Pintos to address fuel system design defects after reports from attorneys of three deaths and four serious injuries in rear-end collisions at moderate speeds. The NHTSA found there
9088-624: The domestic Japanese market, the fourth generation was known as the Mitsubishi Scorpion in Australia, and the Dodge Challenger and Plymouth Sapporo in the United States. A fifth-generation model shifted to front-wheel drive in August 1983 as a four-door sedan and four-door hardtop (with different styling). The design continued the direction started with the Tredia , albeit with more harmonious proportions. Drag resistance
9216-421: The earlier AY. Aside from the new body, with wider wheels and improved handling, it also benefitted from a new five-speed gearbox. In August 1976, the name was changed to Chrysler Colt, and the new GS II received a 2.0-liter engine with 85 kW (116 PS; 114 hp). The 1600 also became available in less sporty GL trim, and a set of four-door models complemented the earlier hardtop. This new range signalled
9344-475: The earlier Colt had been imported in limited numbers, this generation, in 1.6-litre coupé form only, was the first model to establish the Mitsubishi brand in New Zealand from 1971 when newly appointed distributor Todd Motors, which also imported and assembled Chrysler and Hillman, started selling a small number of Japanese-assembled cars to supplement its mainstream Hillman Avenger and Hunter models. The coupé
9472-464: The facts of the related legal cases, Grimshaw vs Ford Motor Company and State of Indiana vs Ford Motor Company , the applicable safety standards at the time of design, and the nature of the NHTSA investigations and subsequent vehicle recalls. One described the Grimshaw case as "mythical" due to several significant factual misconceptions and their effect on the public's understanding. The design of
9600-487: The field data and found no actionable issue. In 1973, Ford's Environmental and Safety Engineering division developed a cost–benefit analysis entitled Fatalities Associated with Crash Induced Fuel Leakage and Fires for submission to the NHTSA in support of Ford's objection to proposed stronger fuel system regulation. The document has become known as the Grush/Saunby Report , named for its authors, and as
9728-408: The firewall back the vehicle remained the same as the previous version. Their new 'Sirius' engine was offered in turbocharged form for performance enthusiasts in some markets, with 145 PS (107 kW) for Japanese market cars and 156 PS (115 kW) for those export markets unencumbered by strict emissions rules. A new electronic fuel injection system was introduced on some versions of
9856-549: The first time. Pinto wagons were given a new option package. Dubbed the Pinto Cruising Wagon , it was the sedan delivery version of the Pinto styled to resemble a small conversion van , complete with round side panel "bubble windows" and a choice of optional vinyl graphics. Ford offered new sporty appearance packages similar to those found on the Chevrolet Vega and AMC Gremlin but were strictly cosmetic upgrades that added nothing to vehicle performance. In 1978,
9984-420: The gasoline Astron engine. For economy, an 'Astron' 4D55 , the first turbo-diesel engine in a Japanese passenger car, was also offered. Unusually, the fourth Galant was never offered with a naturally aspirated diesel engine. The 2.3 Turbo D has 84 PS (62 kW), enough to be considered "sporty" at the time, and was first shown at the 1980 Paris Motor Show . The diesel had some initial reliability issues;
10112-499: The hatch itself, with the glass portion of the hatch enlarged to almost the entire size of the hatch itself, ultimately to be supplemented for 1977–1980 with an optional rear hatch that was entirely glass. On October 30, 1970, less than two months after introduction, 26,000 Pintos were recalled to address a possible problem with the accelerator sticking on once engaged at more than halfway. On March 29, 1971, Ford recalled all 220,000 Pintos manufactured before March 19, 1971, to address
10240-414: The liftgate and five decorative chrome strips, sprung scissor struts to assist in opening the hatch, a rear window approximately as large as the sedan's, and a fold-down seat – a feature which became simultaneously an option on the sedan . The hatchback model matched the sedan in all other dimensions and offered 38.1 cubic feet (1.08 m ) of cargo space with its seat folded. By 1972, Ford redesigned
10368-428: The liftover edge was significantly lowered. Weight distribution was distinctly towards the front, with 64.47% of the car's weight over the front wheels for the turbodiesel. In the Japanese market there was also a parallel "Eterna" lineup with very minor differences in appearance and equipment. This generation formed the basis of the widened (by 4 inches/100 mm) Mitsubishi Magna produced in Australia from 1985,
10496-402: The memo Ford estimated the cost of fuel system modifications to reduce fire risks in rollover events to be $ 11 per car across 12.5 million cars and light trucks (all manufacturers), for a total of $ 137 million. The design changes were estimated to save 180 burn deaths and 180 serious injuries per year, a benefit to society of $ 49.5 million. In August 1977, having been provided with
10624-404: The model years, Bobcats offered various appearance options that were similar to the Pinto's. For 1979, the Bobcat received a major restyling shared with the Pinto featuring a slanted back front end with rectangular headlamps and inboard vertical parking lamps but distinguished with a large vertical bar grille. Except for the wagons, the tail lamps were revised. The base instrument cluster received
10752-415: The more stringent fuel system safety standard and filed objections during the required comment periods of the proposed regulations. The Pinto's design positioned its fuel tank between the solid live rear axle and the rear bumper , a standard practice in US subcompact cars at the time. The Pinto's vulnerability to fuel leakage and fire in a rear-end collision was exacerbated by reduced rear "crush space",
10880-406: The need for a completely redesigned cylinder head . In 1978, Mitsubishi in Japan established a dedicated dealership sales channel called ( Japanese : Galant Restaurant ) to sell the Galant and other selected vehicles. After late 1977 the 1850 variant was discontinued, as Mitsubishi focussed their efforts on making the 1600 and the 2000 engines pass the new, stricter emissions standards. In Japan,
11008-555: The new 1978 standards changed from the A120 to the A130 range. Mitsubishi had limited resources, and the large choice of engines for the Galant lineup was reduced to one 1.6 and one 2.0, with 86 and 105 PS (63 and 77 kW), at the beginning of the 1979 model year. Todd Motors initially assembled 1.6 GL, 1.85 GLX and two-litre GLS sedan models for New Zealand, with the GLS getting
11136-437: The option of automatic transmission , and availability with a turbocharger on certain models. Several trim levels were offered, GL, GLX, GSR, Super Saloon and SE. The top SE versions notably featured 'Sigma' branded alloy wheels, digital instrumentation, climate controlled air conditioning, cruise control, speed-dependent intermittent wipers and a salmon-brown coloured interior treatment, the treatment changing deep red colour as
11264-594: The powerplant was renamed "Cyclone Dash 3x2". The hardtop range continued to be available until 1990 as Mitsubishi's most luxurious offering in most export markets, until the Sigma/Diamante replaced it. It also continued on sale in Japan, but only as the Eterna Sigma after a facelift in May 1989. In Japan the hardtop was available with a 1.8-liter four at the bottom of the range and with the large 3.0-liter V6 in
11392-590: The regular version. The Galant was offered as a competitor to the Toyota Corona , Nissan Bluebird , Honda Accord , and Mazda Capella . It became Mitsubishi's first car to be sold in the United States in 1971 when the Chrysler Corporation , the company's new partner and stakeholder, began importing the car as the Dodge Colt , as their answer to new American subcompacts, the Ford Pinto ,
11520-561: The same as the first generation Colt Galants offered in sedan, wagon, pillar-less two-door hardtop coupé with the addition of a fixed post coupé for some markets. New models were added to the line up, including GL-II, SL-5, GT and GS-II. The Estate (A112V, sold as a commercial vehicle in Japan) was only available with the 100 PS 1600 engine, in Custom, GL, or SL-5 (with a five-speed manual transmission). It had vestigial wood panelling, featuring
11648-425: The same sensor data. INVECS would, for example, downshift to increase engine braking while travelling downhill, or similarly automate transmission processes which were previously only controlled manually by the driver. Despite sharing its name with the previous system, the second version of INVECS was a radical development, based on Porsche 's Tiptronic technology. As with Porsche's version it allowed for either
11776-415: The same time, the NHTSA announced a long-term goal of setting a 30-mph fixed-barrier standard. Due to the confusion related to the various proposed standards and an expectation that the NHTSA would not select the more stringent 30 mph fixed-barrier standard, Ford elected to voluntarily meet the 20 mph moving-barrier standard for all cars by 1973. Ford and other automobile manufacturers objected to
11904-576: The same year in which Mitsubishi won Bild am Sonntag 's Das Goldene Lenkrad (Golden Steering Wheel) award in Germany for the Galant and Wheels magazine 's Car of the Year for the Magna. Mitsubishi Motors codenamed these cars as "YF" and "YFW"—"W" for "wide", respectively. The station wagon version was effectively replaced by the Chariot/Space Wagon in most markets. The Galant was
12032-457: The standard all-glass third door. The grille and headlamp surrounds were charcoal, the fenders had ESS identification and the styled steel wheels had black wheel trim rings. The Sports Package (front stabilizer bar, sport steering wheel, full instrumentation, optional axle ratio on 2.3L manual cars) was standard. July 1980 marked the end of the Pinto's production run, with a total production run of 3,150,943 cars. Ford's designated replacement for
12160-425: The tanks ruptured in rear-end collisions . A subsequent analysis of the overall safety of the Pinto suggested it was comparable to other 1970s subcompact cars. The safety issues surrounding the Pinto and the subsequent response by Ford have been cited widely as business ethics and tort reform case studies. American automakers had first countered imports such as the Volkswagen Beetle with compact cars including
12288-452: The taxi-spec sedan remained in production for Japanese commercial use until December 1999, when Mitsubishi abandoned that market. The taxi was only available with an LPG-powered 1.8-litre engine, originally the 4G37 . From October 1986 the Taxi (and driving school model) was fitted with Mitsubishi's new "Cyclone" combustion chamber design. At the end of October 1990, the Galant Σ Taxi received
12416-420: The third Japanese car to adopt four-wheel anti-lock brakes, using Bosch's ABS system. Vehicles in Japan installed with the four-speed transmission were equipped with what Mitsubishi called Super Shift , essentially installing a transfer case , without adding another driveshaft to the rear wheels. Super Shift was no longer offered with the introduction of the five-speed manual transmission. Exports began about
12544-410: The third generation cars. Additional emphasis was given to ergonomics , aerodynamics , and safety. Shoulder room, leg room, and head space were all increased, and the trunk was slightly enlarged for more luggage capacity. The interior was made quieter with additional carpeting and other acoustic dampening materials and a double-thickness front bulkhead. The wagon version was also changed, although from
12672-413: The top "Duke" version after this makeover. The European market Sapporo took its bow at the 1987 Frankfurt Motor Show; the large 2.4-liter 4G64 "Sirius" four-cylinder producing 129 PS (95 kW) at 5,000 rpm (124 PS or 91 kW for the catalyzed version). In October 1987 the same platform was used for a sixth-generation model which adopted taller, rounded styling. This generation won
12800-426: The top GS model in January 1973. Initially only available as a four-door sedan, five-door estate and two-door hardtop (A53) variants were added in 1970. The hardtop was Mitsubishi's first production passenger car with full side windows and no side pillars. In March 1973, with only two months of production left, the cleaner "MCA-II" version of the 1.6 arrived. With 97 PS (71 kW) it was three horsepower down on
12928-535: The world, the sixth generation Galant was replaced towards the end of 1992, but North American sales only ended in 1994, when the next generation Galant arrived there. A limited edition based on the GTi-16v model was introduced in 1989, modified by German tuning company AMG (owned by Mercedes-Benz since 1999), with mildly uprated engine (170 PS or 125 kW or 168 hp) and unique body kit, alloy wheels, and full leather interior. The AMG appearance treatment
13056-610: Was also achieved on the Debonair for 1986. It, along with the Debonair, were the only Japanese cars that received the AMG treatment. The sixth generation was also the first to see the introduction of the VR-4 variant, which was the basis for Mitsubishi's participation in the 1988–1992 World Rally Championships . The Galant's 4G63 two-litre DOHC turbocharged engine and 4WD transmission
13184-578: Was also when the facelifted (square headlights) model appeared in South Africa, with new "low-inertia" engines. Power output for the 2.0-liter remained at 65.5 kW (89 PS; 88 hp), but period testers felt it more powerful than the previous version. Claimed, DIN power outputs in the European market were considerably lower than the JIS Gross ratings used in Japan. The 2-litre engine had
13312-455: Was around 1,200 units per year. For its last three years of production, this model received an LPG-version of the 1834 cc "4G93" engine. The fifth-generation Galant was introduced to the New Zealand market in mid-1984, as the Mitsubishi Sigma. Assembled by Mitsubishi's New Zealand distributors, Todd Motors, the Sigma was available with the choice of 1.8- and 2.0-litre engines, the 2.0 having
13440-523: Was assembled in New Zealand from 1972, firstly at Todd's Petone factory, on the Avenger/Hunter line and, from 1974, at the brand-new purpose-built factory in Porirua (closed in 1998). The second generation Mitsubishi Colt Galant A11* series was built from 1973 and received a replacement in 1976. Introduced on 24 May 1973 (on sale 1 June) in the Japanese domestic market, the second generation Galant
13568-485: Was available in basic Executive, mid-range Super Saloon, and top-of-the-range SEi trim levels, the latter with luxury trim and digital dashboard. Later a sports version Elante was introduced, based on the Executive. The V6 engine combined with relatively low weight and gearing ensured excellent performance, New Zealand's traffic patrol selected them as patrol cars to replace the turbocharged Sigma GSR. These police cars had
13696-524: Was available until 1975. The nameplate was sufficiently highly regarded in Japan for it to be resurrected for the 1990 Mitsubishi GTO coupé. A third, more compact coupé was introduced on a chassis shortened by 12 cm in 1971, the Galant FTO . Powered by the 4G41 1.4 L engine, it too would leave a legacy for the company to return to in the 1990s with the Mitsubishi FTO . Although
13824-405: Was based on a 20 mph moving-barrier rear impact test. Ford publicly announced it supported the standard. In August 1970, the month the Pinto went into production, the NHTSA changed the proposal to a more stringent 20 mph fixed-barrier standard which car companies were to meet in 18 months. The fixed-barrier standard was seen by the auto industry as a significant increase in test severity. At
13952-418: Was completed in 25 months when the automotive industry average was 43 months, the shortest production planning schedule in automotive history at the time. Some development processes usually conducted sequentially were conducted in parallel. Machine tooling overlapped with product development, which froze the basic design. Decisions that threatened the schedule were discouraged; the attitude of Ford management
14080-457: Was derived from the French word galant , meaning "chivalrous". There have been nine distinct generations with total cumulative sales exceeding five million units. It began as a compact sedan, but over the course of its life evolved into a mid-size car . Initial production was based in Japan, with manufacturing later moved to other countries. The first generation of the car, initially known as
14208-459: Was developed specifically to give Mitsubishi New Zealand a six-cylinder family car, suitable for towing boats and caravans, to compete with the imported Ford Falcon (EA) and Holden Commodore (VN) models. While the rear styling of the previous Sigma model was retained, the frontal treatment was changed to now feature a more formal, upright chrome grille (the bonnet and grille were from the top-of the-line Sigma SE), and uprated suspension. The V3000
14336-459: Was down to an average 0.36 C x {\displaystyle \scriptstyle C_{\mathrm {x} }\,} . All new chassis numbers, from E11A to E19A, marked the change. External dimensions all grew, but only marginally, while the wheelbase was 7 cm (2.8 in) longer. Thanks to the more compact drivetrain, however, passenger space increased noticeably and the boot grew from 272 to 360 litres (9.6 to 12.7 cu ft) while
14464-402: Was further advanced, and now offered a continuously variable transmission when in fully-automatic mode, or a simulated six-speed clutchless manual if the driver wished to control the up- and down-shift points. A further innovation for Mitsubishi was the introduction of paddle-shifters allowing the driver to make manual gear changes while their hands remain on the steering wheel. INVECS-III
14592-473: Was introduced in 2000, in the eighth generation of the Mitsubishi Lancer . The paddle-shift option was first seen on the second generation Mitsubishi Outlander which debuted in 2005. Mitsubishi Galant The Mitsubishi Galant ( Japanese : 三菱・ギャラン , Mitsubishi Gyaran ) is an automobile which was produced by Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi from 1969 until 2012. The model name
14720-538: Was introduced known as the Pinto Pony with less standard equipment and cheaper interior trim. A wagon version of the Pony would later arrive for the 1979 model year. For the 1977 model year, the Pinto received its first significant styling updates with slanted back urethane headlamp buckets, parking lamps, and grille. The tail lamps were revised except for the wagons. Runabouts offered an optional all-glass rear hatch for
14848-619: Was later adopted for the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution with little modification and would remain in production for fifteen years. Starting in 1989, the Mitsubishi Galant V-series were produced for the Japanese market as a sporty alternative to the regular Galant range. The lineup consisted of Viento and VX-S/VZ-S models featuring the higher output 1.8 and 2.0 Turbo DOHC engines with both automatic and manual transmissions available. The V-series featured
14976-593: Was later revised to add the wagon and drop the 1.85-litre engine. The third generation Galant was the recipient of the Car of the Year award in South Africa in 1977. In South Africa, where it was built by the Sigma Motor Corporation , it was sold as the Colt Galant. Originally sold with the 1.6- and the 2.0-liter engines, the automatic-only 2.6-liter engine arrived in the middle of 1979 and was developed locally. The 2.6 arrived elsewhere only later. Mid-1979
15104-543: Was less expensive than the design changes. The day after the article's release consumer advocate Ralph Nader and the author of the Mother Jones article held a news conference in Washington DC on the alleged dangers of the Pinto's design. On the same day, Nader and the Center for Auto Safety re-submitted their petition to the NHTSA. Former UCLA law professor Gary T. Schwartz in a Rutgers Law Review article said
15232-418: Was more curvaceous, influenced by contemporary " coke bottle styling ", and featured a range of larger 'Astron' engines developing up to 125 PS in 2000 cc form to complement the 'Saturn' units. During the second generation, the first Astron 80 engines were introduced in some markets using Mitsubishi's newly developed "Silent Shaft" balance shaft technology for reduced vibration and noise. Body styles remained
15360-528: Was more widely exported as Mitsubishi's ambitions grew. It was again sold by Chrysler in many different guises; as the Dodge Colt in the United States, as the Plymouth Colt and Plymouth Cricket in Canada (from 1974), as the Chrysler Valiant Galant and as the Chrysler Galant in Australia, and in Europe as the Colt Galant. Transmissions were now all floor mounted and include a four-speed manual and
15488-412: Was not enough evidence to warrant a defect investigation. In August 1977, Dowie's "Pinto Madness" article was published, leveling a series of accusations against Ford, the Pinto and the NHTSA. These included that Ford knew the Pinto was a "firetrap" and said that Ford did not implement design changes because the company's cost-benefit analysis document showed that paying out millions in damages in lawsuits
15616-603: Was simply known as the Galant. At that time, the Dodge Colt in America was actually a Mitsubishi Lancer , not the Galant anymore, but nonetheless the Galant Wagon variant was sold with the Dodge Colt label in the US and Canada. In Australia, where the car was made locally at Chrysler's Clovelly Park plant, it was marketed as the Chrysler Sigma and, after the 1980 buyout of Chrysler Australia by Mitsubishi, as
15744-537: Was simply the 1800 TD. A fuel injected 150 PS (110 kW) 2000 Turbo was also available in some export markets. The TD and the Turbo both received standard power steering. Equipment levels in Japan had more interesting names, ranging from the LS and LG via Super Saloon, Super Touring, Super Exceed, and GSR-X up to the most luxurious Royal. The top models for Japan (the "Super Exceed" sedan or "VR" hardtop) were powered by
15872-698: Was sold in the United States between 1978 and 1980 as the Dodge Challenger and Plymouth Sapporo . In Australia the Lambda was marketed initially as the Chrysler Sigma Scorpion and latter as the Mitsubishi Scorpion. Mitsubishi introduced the MCA-Jet engine for Japan and other emissions-controlled markets with its latest Galant. This incorporated the "Jet Valve", a secondary intake valve which improved emissions without necessitating
16000-507: Was the first subcompact vehicle produced by Ford in North America. The Pinto was marketed in three body styles throughout its production: a two-door fastback sedan with a trunk, a three-door hatchback, and a two-door station wagon. Mercury offered rebadged versions of the Pinto as the Mercury Bobcat from 1975 until 1980 (1974–1980 in Canada ). Over three million Pintos were produced over its ten-year production run, outproducing
16128-682: Was the sporty new Stallion appearance package with blackout trim and black two-tone accent paint offered in red, yellow, silver, and white body colors. This option package was shared with the Mustang II and Maverick. The other new option package was the Runabout Squire which featured wood-grain vinyl bodysides like the Squire wagon. The interior received the optional Luxury Decor Group which featured new low-back vinyl or plaid cloth bucket seats with matching door trim. A new basic low-cost model
16256-421: Was to develop the Pinto as quickly as possible. Iacocca ordered a rush project to build the car, and the Pinto became known internally as "Lee's car". The Pinto's bodywork was styled by Robert Eidschun. Offered with an inline-four engine and bucket seats the Pinto's mechanical design was conventional, with unibody construction, a longitudinally mounted engine in front driving the rear wheels through either
16384-555: Was updated with a new rectangular instrument cluster and a modified dash-pad for vehicles without the optional sports instrumentation. The variety of sports appearance packages was revised, some with new graphics. The Pinto ESS (European Sports Sedan) trim package became available in 2-door Sedan and 3-door Runabout body styles featuring black roof drip mouldings, lower back panel, rocker panels, glass surrounds and door frame trims (incl. black tape along lower side window ledges), dual sport mirrors, premium body-side mouldings, and hinges for
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