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106-666: For the 1987 model year, Mitsubishi resurrected the Sapporo name for their Mitsubishi Galant Sapporo . However, this version was an unrelated front-wheel drive, four-door sedan . Introduced in Japan in December 1976, the Lambda was described not as a coupé but a " personal luxury car ", as Mitsubishi already had the Lancer -based Celeste coupé in its line-up. It competed in Japan with

212-589: A captive import of the Dodge and Plymouth divisions of Chrysler. The cars differed only in minor details, such as taillights , interior trim, and available colors. Although mechanically identical, the Dodge Colt Challenger was positioned to appeal to the performance segment, while the Plymouth Sapporo targeted the luxury market. The earliest Dodge Colt Challengers were available only in

318-400: A moonroof . The American, Australian, and Japanese-market 2.6 L Astron engine helped introduce Mitsubishi's then-new Silent Shaft balance shaft engine technology, which minimized the inherent vibration of a large four-cylinder in-line engine. Japanese buyers were liable for more annual road tax for selecting the 2.6 L engine over the smaller engines. The US version also featured

424-703: A " Jet Valve ", a small secondary intake valve that improved emissions by enhancing swirl in the combustion chamber, allowing for utilizing of a leaner fuel mixture. A similar engine without the Jet Valve was available in Mitsubishi-built trucks and the Canadian versions of the Sapporo/Challenger. It was also used in many Chrysler K-cars and their derivatives . Beginning in 1980, Japanese versions were available with electronic fuel injection, or

530-598: 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

636-679: 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

742-622: A final weight of less than 1,000 kg (2,200 lb), lighter than the Audi Quattro. The car was developed with a turbocharged and intercooled version of Mitsubishi's 2.0 L fuel injected engine, but the final goal was to use a turbocharged and intercooled 261 kW (355 PS; 350 hp) version of the Sirius Dash engine that Mitsubishi announced at the 1983 Tokyo Motor Show , which switched electronically at 2500 rpm from one inlet valve per cylinder to two. The car

848-418: 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

954-467: 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,

1060-413: 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

1166-839: A lesser extent, the Honda Prelude , Isuzu Piazza and Subaru XT . The Starion was marketed in the US as the Mitsubishi Starion and badge engineered variants of it were marketed as the Dodge, Plymouth and Chrysler Conquest. In the UK it was sold as the Colt Starion. It was manufactured in two body configurations, a narrowbody and widebody; the narrower style complied with Japanese exterior dimension regulations taxing larger vehicles and engine displacement exceeding two liters. Only

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1272-433: 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

1378-399: 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

1484-663: 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. Mitsubishi Starion The Mitsubishi Starion is a two-door, turbocharged four-cylinder rear-wheel drive four-seat fastback sports car manufactured and marketed by Mitsubishi from 1982 until 1989 — with badge engineered variants marketed in North America as

1590-544: 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

1696-518: A new 2.3 L Astron turbodiesel engine. The suspension was revised for the 1980 model year (the second generation), with improved geometry in front and an all-new four-link rear suspension. The turbo models were introduced, of which some came with independent rear suspension (as later applied to the Starion). The second generation also brought variable-assist power steering, which provided increased assistance at low speeds and less at higher speeds. It

1802-418: A new chassis code, shifting from A120 to A160 . The shifter was moved closer to the driver, and ventilation was improved. The interior provided additional carpeting, acoustic dampening materials, and a double-thickness front bulkhead. The Mitsubishi Galant Lambda was available with a variety of engines, including diesel , several normally aspirated gasoline engines, and one of the earliest applications of

1908-575: A number are still raced on both circuit and in special stage rally events, usually by privateers . The Starion was not very successful off-road, but found victory in Group A World Rally Championships and Asia Pacific Rally Championships during 1987 and 1988. An all wheel drive version of the Starion was also produced for Group B specifications (one of the few Japanese automobile manufacturers to enter this class), but after an encouraging start as

2014-511: A prototype, it was not homologated before the FIA banned Group B cars for safety reasons. The Starion was converted to all wheel drive by adding a strengthened transfer case from a Pajero behind the transmission. This configuration allowed the engine to be situated well back in the chassis, for improved front/rear weight distribution compared to the Audi Quattro , whose configuration required

2120-645: 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

2226-408: 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

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2332-550: A three-speed automatic. As in other markets, the Challenger/Sapporo received all-new bodywork for the 1981 model year. Originally a 1.6 L four was also available, but the second generation North American market cars received only the 2.6 L inline-four with balance shafts and 105 hp (78 kW). The Dodge versions became simply the Dodge Challenger after 1981, dropping the " Colt " part of

2438-464: 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

2544-411: A two-tone silver/charcoal paint to enhance its sportier nature. For the 1979 model year, four more color combinations became available. Equipment was complete for the time, with remote opening trunk, electrically controlled exterior mirrors, map lights, crushed velour seats, etcetera. The larger-engined cars included four-wheel disc brakes as standard; both engines were available with a five-speed manual or

2650-458: 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

2756-572: 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

2862-779: 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

2968-566: The Conquest, under the Chrysler , Dodge , and Plymouth brands. The Starion was one of the first modern Japanese turbocharged performance automobiles with electronic fuel injection. Mitsubishi began marketing the Starion in 1982, during a period in which a number of Japanese grand tourer (GT) sports cars were available, including the Nissan Z cars , Mazda RX-7 , Toyota Supra and to

3074-455: 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

3180-552: 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,

3286-695: 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

Mitsubishi Galant Lambda - Misplaced Pages Continue

3392-696: The Toyota Crown , Nissan Cedric , Nissan Gloria , and the Mazda Cosmo coupes newly introduced to Japan. In Australia, the car was imported from Japan as a flagship model of Chrysler Australia 's successful Sigma range. In the mid-1970s, smaller personal luxury cars were a growing trend. Pursuing this market segment, the Lambda/Sapporo featured frameless door glass , canopy vinyl roofs , velour upholstered interiors, wheel covers with whitewall tires , and numerous power assists. In 1980,

3498-448: The "Sports Handling Package", option code SH. Chrysler referred to it as the "Performance Handling Package", option code AGA. Both variants are commonly referred to as SHP. The SHP package included adjustable front and rear struts,1 inch wider wheels (from 16 x 7 to 16 x 8 front and 16 x 8 to 16 x 9 rear), and wider tires (225/50 and 245/45). The package can be retrofitted to earlier pre-widebody cars but includes converting to 5-lug hubs from

3604-501: 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

3710-497: 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

3816-582: 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

3922-562: 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

4028-670: The 4-lug hubs. The drag coefficient was around 0.32, superior to the Mazda RX-7 and the Nissan 300ZX upon its release. Notable aftermarket upgrades include multi-port injection (MPI) consisting of standalone engine management (programmable computers) to control individual fuel injectors, one per cylinder versus the stock PCI-ECM two injector system. Two injector systems, primary (idle injector) and secondary (boost injector) non-sequential firing (1983–1986) and sequential firing (1987–1989). Production: These figures are both cars, total, all styles A number of models existed throughout

4134-503: The Challenger and Sapporo were continued through 1989 as the Conquest sports car. Rebadged models, mostly from Japanese or Korean manufacturers – Rebadged Chrysler/Plymouth models for external markets Mitsubishi Galant#Fifth generation 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

4240-606: 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

4346-558: 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

Mitsubishi Galant Lambda - Misplaced Pages Continue

4452-481: 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

4558-544: 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

4664-409: 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

4770-686: The SOHC 2.0 L Sirius G63B engine, subsequently featured in DOHC form in later Mitsubishi sport compacts such as the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution . Both the 2.0 L and the 2.6 L produced roughly the same horsepower, the larger 2.6 L did have a slight torque advantage and the 2.0L had a higher redline. Reporters of the time considered the 2.0l to be peaky and exciting, while the American market 2.6l had plenty of torque, but

4876-522: 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

4982-617: 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

5088-484: 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

5194-507: The car was slower, for most of these markets this was the case as the engine change also coincided with a move to the heavier body style. From 1984 until 1987 in Japan a 12-valve (two intake, one exhaust) SOHC intercooled version of the 2.0 L G63B was made available in the top-spec GSR-V (and some GSR-VR) trim grade Starions. This setup was known as the Dual Action Super Head (or DASH for short) due to its ability to activate

5300-473: 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

5406-453: The combination of star and Arion, Hercules' horse in Greek mythology, symbolizes a sense of the universe, and of power and high performance. Several sources attribute the name to struggles by Japanese engineers to pronounce the word stallion . An early Japanese television commercial for the Starion closed with a logo of a stallion's head with the word "Starion" below it. One translation of

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5512-624: 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

5618-446: The doors for the driver and front passenger. 1987 and later American models featured electrically operated seat belts. Newer models also featured power windows that remained powered up to 30 seconds after the engine was turned off. In Japan, some of the early cars built still featured fender-mounted mirrors in the traditional Japanese style. A five-speed manual transmission was standard in most models, however, an automatic transmission

5724-421: 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

5830-475: 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

5936-479: The engine to be far forward in the car. Although the wheelbase did not change, the use of regular headlights rather than the production model's pop-up headlights allowed the nose to be six inches shorter, as well as saving several pounds in weight. Further weight was saved by the use of carbon fiber for the driveshafts , sumpguard, and lower arms of the suspension, and fiberglass for the hood (bonnet), tailgate, door skins, fenders, bumpers and spoilers, resulting in

6042-428: The exception of Australia, many models were available as either narrow-body or wide-body shell styles. The Starion was a prominent competitor in motorsports up to International level during the 1980s and performed well on the circuit in Group A and Group N races of the era. Andy McLennan driving a Simmons Drums sponsored Starion was very successful, picking up many race wins and a Monroe championship, this against

6148-549: The final 1989 model year. The Conquest used the 2.6 L G54B engine with TD05-12A MHI (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) turbocharger. The TD05-12A (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) turbocharger was also fitted to the earlier, non-intercooled narrow-body models, producing 145 hp (108 kW). Mitsubishi Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth Verified by ** MCA-Chrysler Motorsports of America (10/01). 2.0 L G63B engine with MHI TC06-11A turbocharger, apart from GSR-VR which has 2.6 L G54B engine with TC05-12A turbocharger. With

6254-408: 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

6360-420: 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;

6466-428: 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,

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6572-665: The long-running turbocharged 2.0 L 4G63T engine in the top GSR model which also featured independent rear suspension. It was available in the North American market in one basic configuration, which combined the GSR's close-ratio transmission, a live axle rear suspension, and a larger engine. Rear disc brakes and alloy wheels were available together as a package. Other US options were minimal; air conditioning , cassette player, automatic transmission , cruise control , power door locks , power mirrors , power windows , and

6678-732: The model version, and are found on the Australian Vehicle Information Plates. It was marketed in North America by Mitsubishi as the Starion from 1983 until 1989. It was also sold as a captive import by Chrysler as the Conquest, under both the Dodge and Plymouth names from 1984 until 1986 and only under the Chrysler name from 1987 until 1989. For model year 1987, Mitsubishi introduced a passive restraint system for front occupants which featured automatic shoulder belts . The safety feature remained through

6784-446: The name. An electric sunroof was also new. Although the car received generally positive reviews, it was unsuccessful in the United States. The Challenger and Sapporo were discontinued after the 1983 model year to make way for the products of the newly formed Chrysler-Mitsubishi joint venture, Diamond-Star Motors , as well as the entrance of Mitsubishi into the American market under its name. The same platform and 2.6 L engine under

6890-478: The narrowbody was offered through the 1985.5 model year. The introduction of the widebody also split the car into two ranges: a non-intercooled lower-horsepower car using the narrow body style and a high-performance intercooled widebody. In most markets, widebody cars were given the label of Starion ESI-R or Conquest TSi. Markets that never received the widebody had the ESI-R label, these cars had similar performance as

6996-406: 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,

7102-555: 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

7208-437: 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

7314-421: 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

7420-453: The prestigious "Longest Day of Nelson Ledges " 24-hour endurance race four years running from 1984 through 1987. Team Mitsubishi Starions also won the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) U.S. Endurance Championships three of those four years, competing against the fully factory-backed (Wolin's team was only partially sponsored by Mitsubishi) efforts from Chrysler , Audi , Nissan and Mazda . Although not commonly seen in modern motorsports,

7526-399: 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 ,

7632-561: 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

7738-576: 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

7844-592: The second generation featured styled steel wheels with blackwall tires, less chrome trim and interior courtesy lights, a fuse box with fuse built-in test light and under seat as well as console storage —' and a radio antenna incorporated into the trunk lid. The wheelbase and bodywork were lengthened with a revised roofline while remaining within the Japanese Government dimension regulations . Revisions offered increased shoulder room, front and rear leg room, headroom and trunk capacity — and merited

7950-868: The semi works car of Colin Blower. In the Netherlands, John Hugenholtz won the over 2L class in the Dutch Championship, with the Colin Blower-prepared Mitsubishi Dealers car. In the United States, the Starion became best known for successes in endurance racing at several SCCA sanctioned events, and in Japan at the Japanese Touring Car Championship . Starions from Dave Wolin's Team Mitsubishi, with turbocharged 2.6 L G54B engines built by noted Lotus engine guru Dave Vegher, captured

8056-452: 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

8162-420: 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

8268-410: 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

8374-455: The third intake valve above a certain RPM, thereby increasing top end response, flow and overall engine performance. Redline was increased to 7000 rpm on these models. Horsepower for the turbocharged models ranged between 145 and 200 PS (107 and 147 kW; 143 and 197 hp) depending upon which turbocharger was fitted, the presence of an intercooler, and whether the 8-valve or 12-valve head

8480-413: 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

8586-481: 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

8692-488: The voiceover says the name refers to a star and the mythical horse, Arion . The Mitsubishi Colt and Mitsubishi Eclipse featured equine names, with the Eclipse named after the champion racehorse . The Starion uses a traditional front-mounted engine with rear-wheel drive layout. Many came with a limited slip differential and anti-lock brakes (single channel, rear wheels only) as standard features. The entire chassis

8798-429: The widebodies. Widebody cars were offered in 1986–1989 model years in the US. The Starion was featured in the 1984 movie Cannonball Run II . Mitsubishi says "Starion" is a contraction of "Star of Arion" — and refers to both a star and the mythical horse, Arion . The cover of the original Japanese Starion sales brochure, published by Mitsubishi (May 1982) carried the text: "the name STARION — derived from

8904-482: The world during 1982 to 1989. 2.0 L G63B engine, apart from GSR-VR which has 2.6 L G54B . The Japanese domestic market had a large range of Starions to choose from. The Roman numeral after 'GSR' denotes the vehicle specification. Some examples can be found below: 2.0 L G63B engine. Australian vehicles were mostly similar to the European Turbo specification. The J codes below denote

9010-535: 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

9116-610: 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

9222-456: Was also slightly bigger, with increased foot room, headroom, and luggage space. The Galant Lambda GSR was a predecessor to the more sporting Mitsubishi Starion based on the same chassis and drivetrain. The Starion continued the rear-wheel-drive Galants' model codes, being called the A180 , while the new front-wheel-drive Galants started afresh from E10. The car was marketed in North America as

9328-578: 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

9434-455: 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

9540-523: 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

9646-485: 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

9752-524: 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

9858-457: 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

9964-526: Was derived from the previous high-performance variant of the Mitsubishi Sapporo or Mitsubishi Galant Lambda sports coupé, with a MacPherson strut suspension and sway bars that were fitted to the front and rear. Rack and pinion steering was not offered, instead gearbox steering was standard on all models. Engine capacity differed between markets. American customers received the larger SOHC Astron G54B 2.6 L engine. Most markets received

10070-459: 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

10176-459: 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

10282-539: 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

10388-593: 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

10494-471: Was less rewarding. Both engines featured computer-controlled fuel injection and turbocharging. After 1987, European Starion models were also fitted with the 2.6 L engine, as was the GSR-VR for Japan. The move to the 2.6 L in all markets was spurred by emissions restrictions around the world tightening to meet the American standards for lead in fuels. Reviews during the change were negative as many felt

10600-418: 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

10706-528: 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

10812-603: 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

10918-537: 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

11024-437: Was sold as an option in some markets. Later upgrades to the model included an intercooler, five-lug wheels replacing the four-bolt wheels it had shared with the rear wheel drive Mitsubishi Galant Lambda , rear power train changes from four- to six-bolt axles, various fuel management upgrades and upgrades to the transmission. For the 1989 and 1989 model years, an optional handling package was added. Mitsubishi referred to it as

11130-645: 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

11236-534: Was used. A naturally aspirated version known as the GX was offered in the Japanese market, with production ending in 1983. The Starion GX was offered without power windows, air conditioning, independent rear suspension , fuel injection or power-assisted steering . Seating was a 2+2 with rear seats unsuitable for large adults. The front seats were adjustable for lumbar, angle, knee support, position and featured variable-angle side-braces. Front seat belts were located in

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