The Evolution of Mitsubishi Engine Designs Over the Years

Date January 16, 2024
Category
Uncategorized, Auto Repair, Automotive Tips, Car Engines, Car Tips, Cars Transmission
Tags, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
The Evolution of Mitsubishi Engine Designs Over the Years

The History of Mitsubishi Engine Designs Through the Years
Discover how Mitsubishi engines have changed through the years, and view our large listing of Mitsubishi engines for sale with specs.

Introduction

Mitsubishi is a name that is synonymous with engineering excellence and innovation virtually by definition. Mitsubishi Motors has been at the forefront of engine innovation for centuries, making robust, fuel-saving, and long-lasting engines for anything from small city cars to high-performance sport sedans and rugged SUVs. The Evolution of Mitsubishi Engine Designs Over the Years

Here in this article, we’re going to take you on the grand tour of Mitsubishi engine design history—from early carbureted setups to high-tech turbocharged powerplants of the modern era—and in the process, demonstrate to you why buying a Mitsubishi engine from us is a good, performance-conscious investment. No matter whether you’re looking to trade in a new engine, upgrade your car, or build a show project, there’s the ideal Mitsubishi engine for sale for you, along with specifications and warranty-protected quality.

1. The Early Years – Mitsubishi’s Foundation in Engine Design

Post-war years saw the emergence of Mitsubishi engine development with low-output, small-displacement engines for compacter passenger cars. They were fuel-efficient and reliable in nature.

Early Notable Engines:
ME21 (1962)

  • Type: 2-cylinder, 2-stroke
  • Displacement: 359cc
  • ~21 hp
  • Applied on: Mitsubishi 360
  • Key Feature: Light, simple, and thrifty for city driving

Because public demand grew and emission controls were fewer, Mitsubishi moved on to more advanced 4-stroke engines.

2. Genesis of Performance – 1970s to 1980s

It was in the 1970s and 80s that Mitsubishi started performance engine development work. These decades played a crucial role as the company started exporting vehicles worldwide and co-developing with its partners, such as Chrysler.

G-Series Engines – The Backbone of a Generation

4G32 (1971–1990s)

  • Type: SOHC Inline-4
  • Displacement: 1.6L
  • Output: 75–110 hp
  • Used In: Galant, Lancer
  • Highlights: Flexibility and reliability for overseas markets

4G54 (1980s)

  • Type: SOHC Inline-4
  • Displacement: 2.6L
  • Output: Up to 120 hp
  • Used In: Starion, Montero, Pajero
  • Key Feature: Renowned for torque and versatility; popular for turbocharging

We offer rebuilt and used 4G series Mitsubishi engines—ideal for restoration or upgrades.

3. Turbocharging and the Evolution Series – 1990s to Early 2000s

This era introduced Mitsubishi’s legendary turbo engines, especially the 4G63T, which powered the iconic Lancer Evolution I–IX.

4G63T – A Legend is Born

  • Type: Inline-4, DOHC, Turbocharged
  • Displacement: 2.0L
  • Output: 250–280 hp (stock, depending on market)
  • Used In: Lancer Evolution I–IX, Eclipse GSX
  • Key Features: Cast-iron block, high boost tolerance, aftermarket potential

✅ Available Now: Rebuilt and low-mileage 4G63T engines for Evo builds and turbo swaps

6G72 – V6 Power

  • Type: V6, SOHC/DOHC
  • Displacement: 3.0L
  • Output: 160–222 hp
  • Used In: 3000GT, Dodge Stealth, Pajero
  • DOHC Twin Turbo Version: 300+ hp in the 3000GT VR-4
  • Notes: Smooth, torquey, and powerful—great for luxury or performance builds

4. The Modern Era – Aluminum, MIVEC & Eco-Friendly Engineering (2000s–2010s)

As increasingly restrictive global emission standards took effect, Mitsubishi retorted with leaner, cleaner engines featuring MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) technology.

4B11T – Next Generation Turbo Power

  • Type: Inline-4, DOHC, Turbo, MIVEC
  • Displacement: 2.0L
  • Output: 280–300 hp
  • Used In: Lancer Evolution X
  • Key features: All-aluminum block, timing chain, enhanced cooling and flow

➡️ In Stock: Performance-ready 4B11T engines for sale – fully tested and ready to install

Other Notable Recent Engines

4A91 (2004–present)

  • Type: Inline-4, DOHC, MIVEC
  • Displacement: 1.5L
  • Used In: Colt, Mirage
  • Great For: Day-to-day driving and fuel efficiency

4N15 (2015–present)

  • Type: Inline-4, turbo diesel
  • Displacement: 2.4L
  • Used In: Mitsubishi Triton, Pajero Sport
  • Specs: 178 hp, 317 lb-ft torque
  • Ideal For: Towing, off-road, and commercial use

We also carry the diesel and petrol Mitsubishi engines for every driving need.

5. Electric + Hybrid Integration – The Future Begins

While conventional internal combustion engines are still the standard at Mitsubishi, the brand is spending money on hybrid powertrains. Outlander PHEV introduced an entirely new level of engines powered by electric motors.

2.4L MIVEC + Electric Motor

  • Combined Output: ~221 hp
  • Modes: Full electric, hybrid, and series hybrid
  • Use Case: Eco-friendly AWD-capable

🔧 Ask us about our hybrid engine modules or gas engines for the 2.4 MIVEC system.

6. Why Buy a Mitsubishi Engine from Us?

✅ Quality-Controlled Stock
All the engines that we provide are tested, cleaned, and inspected for performance. Be it a used 4G63T, rebuilt 6G72, or JDM-spec 4B11T, our quality control gives you consistent performance.

✅ What We Provide:

  • Brand-new crate engines
  • Rebuilt Mitsubishi engines
  • Low-mileage JDM imports
  • Used and tested engines
  • Diesel and turbocharged performance engines

✅ For:

  • Lancer Evo engine swaps
  • Mitsubishi Eclipse restoration
  • Pajero and Montero off-road conversions
  • Outlander engine swaps
  • Custom applications or performance upgrades

7. Summary Table of Mitsubishi Engine Specs

Engine CodeTypeDisplacementTurboOutputUsed In
4G63TI4 DOHC Turbo2.0LYes250–280 hpLancer Evolution I–IX
6G72V6 DOHC/SOHC3.0LYes/No160–320 hp3000GT, Pajero, Montero
4B11TI4 DOHC Turbo MIVEC2.0LYes280–300 hpLancer Evolution X
4N15I4 Turbo Diesel2.4LYes178 hpTriton, Pajero Sport
4A91I4 MIVEC1.5LNo109–115 hpMirage, Colt

8. Popular Engine Swaps & Applications

Restoring an old car or creating a custom car, Mitsubishi engines are a good swap choice because of their performance, longevity, and popularity.

Popular Applications:

  • 4G63T into RWD setups with aftermarket spacers
  • 6G72 twin-turbo for 3000GT restomods
  • 4B11T for AWD Evo-type conversions
  • Diesel 4N15 for off-road pickups

We can help you find the correct engine with the correct ECU, wiring harness, and accessories to your project.

9. Customer Service & Shipping

We ship directly across the U.S. and around the world. Each engine comes with:

  • Warranty options
  • Compression test reports
  • Exclusives technical support
  • Installation instructions at your request

10. Conclusion – Choose the Best Mitsubishi Engine Today

Mitsubishi’s engine history is one of innovation, performance, and reliability. From the iconic 4G63T turbocharged engine to modern hybrid and diesel models, Mitsubishi engines have an option for every mechanic and vehicle owner.

Need a JDM high-performance engine, a diesel behemoth, or simply a replacement engine? We’ve got you.
Browse our inventory or call us to get the ideal Mitsubishi engine for sale today.

📞 Ready to upgrade?
Call us today or view our current Mitsubishi engine inventory!

Toyota 1VD-FTV Engine Review

Yanmar 8LV Diesel Marine Engines

Ford Automatic Transmissions For Sale

Chevrolets Engines For Sale

Mercedes M278 Engine