1990-93 Mitsubishi Galant
Midsize car; Built in Japan
4-door sedan
1991 Mitsubishi Galant GS
1991 Mitsubishi Galant VR-4
1991 Mitsubishi Galant interior
1991 Mitsubishi Galant engine
Acceleration (w/automatic transmission)
Ride (VR-4, GSX)
We rate the early '90s Galant highly, and still consider it an exceptional value when compared with same-year Accords and Camrys.
Galant was Mitsubishi's answer to the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. At its introduction, base models offered a 102-horsepower, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder mated to a 5-speed manual. Galants in LS trim dropped the manual for a 4-speed automatic. The sporty GS model and all-wheel-drive GSX came with a twin-cam, 135-horsepower version of the same 2.0-liter engine, electronically controlled suspension, plus 4-wheel disc brakes and available antilock brakes.
1991 Galant
The big news for 1991 is the arrival of the high-performance Galant
VR-4 model. It replaces the GSX as the Galant flagship. The GSX returns, but drops its 5-speed in favor of a 4-speed automatic. The VR-4 adds a more advanced 4WD system, similar to the one used in Mitsubishi's 3000GT, and adds a 195-horsepower turbocharged engine, 5-speed manual transmission, 4-wheel steering, leather interior, and bold exterior trim. Another new model, the GSR, is also added. It features front-wheel drive, and the twin-cam 135-horsepower 4-cylinder mated to the 5-speed manual, electronic suspension, and antilock brakes. Finally, Mitsubishi added a new grille and taillamps to help provide a fresh new look.
With the arrival last year of the VR-4, Mitsubishi decided to drop the 4WD GSX model for 1992. The remaining four models receive a mild freshening inside and out. The twin-cam 2.0-liter that powers both GS and GSR models now provides 144 horsepower, up from 135 last year.
The 1993 Galant gives some notable changes for its fourth year in its present form. The slow-selling VR-4 is discontinued. Last year's sporty GS and GSR have been combined for 1993 into a single LS model. Last year's midlevel LS has been renamed the ES, but provides roughly the same equipment. The base Galant now is designated as the S model. All receive a revised version of the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder. The new unit is fitted with internal balance shafts and is now a 16-valve unit with power increasing from 102 to 121 horsepower.
Unlike some automakers who keep the same engine and powertrain combinations intact for years, Mitsubishi kept tinkering with ways in which the four versions of its 2.0-liter 4-cylinder could be shifted each year, choosing to designate some models manual-only and others automatic-only, then shifting the mix completely the following year. For a full rundown, simply refer to the annual summaries. To simplify, the Mitsubishi Galant powertrain starts with an 8-valve, 102-horsepower 2.0-liter engine, which shifts to a 16-valve, 121-horsepower unit in 1993. Torque is rated at 116 pound-feet at 2500 rpm, then jumps to 120 pound-feet at 4750 rpm for '93. The double-overhead-cam version of the same engine begins by providing 135 horsepower, followed by 144 horsepower in 1993. Torque figures range from 125 pound-feet at 5000 rpm to 134 pound-feet at 4500 rpm. The turbocharged unit installed in the VR-4 is the 195-horsepower turbocharged unit shared with the Eclipse. It provides torque of 203 pound-feet at 3000 rpm.
ohc I4
21/27 23.1
dohc I4
Turbocharged dohc I4
Roomy and comfortable, Galants also ride exceptionally well with steady and predictable handling. Even base models take curves with a minimum of drama.
Acceleration from the base engine is fine with the manual transmission, but the automatic renders it rather anemic. It tends to hesitate when asked to downshift, making passing more difficult. It also jumps back and forth between gears when driving through hilly areas. A more satisfying driving experience is offered by GS models equipped with the 135-horsepower twin-cam engine. Mileage drops slightly, but the trade-off is worth it. Although rare these days, real driving enthusiasts are sure to enjoy the 4WD GSX and VR-4 models. Handling tends toward the jittery side on rough pavement, and the electronic suspension may need servicing, but the combination of luxury and performance they provide is outstanding. Although the cabin has plenty of room for four adults, forget trying three in back.
Model Tested: 1990 Mitsubishi Galant LS
Model Tested: 1993 Galant 4-door sedan
Collision 113
Injury 119
Theft 77
Description: To correct a delay when shifting from neutral or park into Drive or Reverse, it is necessary to replace the transmission's solenoid valve set. (1992-93)
Description: Cars with turbo engines had an emissions recall to replace the oxygen sensor with one that could endure higher temperatures. (1991-92)
Description: Manual transmissions in which the shifter does not move smoothly between gears need a bottle of friction modifier added to the oil through the speedometer gear opening. (1991-92)
Vehicle shake
Description: Vibrations in automatic-transmission models are probably due to the upper radiator-mounting posts not being centered in the mounting brackets. (1990-93)
Description: Front-seatbelt release button can break, allowing pieces to fall into buckle assembly.
1990-92 w/AWD
Description: Lockup of transfer case can occur, due to insufficient lubrication.
1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, Mitsubishi, Sedan, Used