When Mitsubishi Collaborated with AMG to Boost Performance

When people think of AMG, they often envision high-performance Mercedes-Benz vehicles with oversized wheels and immense torque. It’s easy to overlook how such a brand could pertain to finely-tuned Japanese cars that usually prioritize finesse over brute strength. Yet, decades ago, AMG was involved in a unique project that many may not be aware of.

Fast forward to the late 1980s and we arrive at Mitsubishi, whose performance division, Ralliart, was just beginning to make its mark. While Mitsubishi had aspirations for robust power, they hadn’t quite achieved that level yet. Thus, they sought assistance from AMG, a well-established name in the world of high-performance tuning. AMG took the Mitsubishi Galant—a car that was otherwise seen as ordinary—and reimagined it to align with their vision for Japanese performance.

Information about the Mitsubishi Galant AMG was gathered from various sources, primarily historical press releases.

AMG’s Mitsubishi-Based Creation

Mitsubishi Galant AMG Facts

• Produced between 1989 and 1994
• Approximately 1,400 units were manufactured
• At that time, AMG wasn’t yet part of Mercedes-Benz

The journey of the Mitsubishi Galant AMG began in 1989, during a period when Mitsubishi’s reputation wasn’t firmly rooted in performance. Today, we recognize Mitsubishi’s achievements in the World Rally Championship, largely due to Ralliart’s creation of remarkable rally cars. Interestingly, the well-known Lancer Evolution model was still three years away from release in 1992. However, Mitsubishi was eager to delve deeper into performance, beyond just superficial elements.

Mitsubishi approached AMG, which at that point was an independent entity not owned by Mercedes-Benz, resulting in a collaborative opportunity. AMG had previously collaborated with Mitsubishi on a project in 1986, with the Mitsubishi Debonair, which primarily involved exterior styling and minor performance upgrades.

Mitsubishi envisioned the Galant as more than just a regular sedan, aiming instead for a compelling performance vehicle. Thus, the Mitsubishi Galant AMG was launched in 1989, with two available versions: Type I and Type II, offering either a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual gearbox. The Galant was equipped with an AMG-enhanced version of the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine found in the Galant GTi-16v, delivering exciting performance and providing an enjoyable driving experience.

Customers choosing the Type I configuration received a sportier model with a prominent rear wing and blacked-out wheels, accompanied by a more minimalist interior that could be upgraded with leather seating. In contrast, the Type II model had a more subdued look, featuring only discreet AMG badging.

Production of the Mitsubishi Galant AMG continued for five years, concluding in late 1994, with a total of 1,395 units produced, predominantly consisting of the Type II variant. Just five years later, Mercedes-Benz would acquire a controlling interest in AMG, effectively ending the tuner’s collaborations with other manufacturers—a decision that had significant implications for AMG’s creative directions in the future.

The Galant AMG’s Axis-Powered Heart

In contrast to the previous Debonair AMG unit, AMG played a pivotal role in optimizing the Galant AMG’s 4G63 engine. Initially producing only 141 horsepower in 1992, the regular version didn’t inspire much excitement. However, AMG took on the challenge of enhancing this performance. With their expertise, they managed to extract an additional 27 horsepower from the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine.

This transformation enabled the Galant to compete with some of the more luxurious mid-sized sedans of its time. With a 0-60 mph time of 6.5 seconds and a notable top speed, the new performance figures positioned the Galant favorably in the competitive landscape. To achieve this boost, AMG replaced the factory pistons, introduced a new intake manifold, titanium valve springs, and upgraded the camshaft. Notably, buyers of the five-speed manual version received even slightly more power.

A standout feature of the AMG-enhanced 4G63 engine was its impressive 8,000-rpm redline, which was 500 rpm higher than the standard version. This higher limit allowed for more effective power delivery on the track, minimizing the need for frequent gear changes.

The Galant AMG’s Older, Soft-Spoken Brother

We previously mentioned the Debonair AMG, Mitsubishi’s first collaboration with AMG that took place from 1986 to 1989. The Debonair model, typically aimed at a more mature audience, received a touch of sportiness through AMG’s engagement. During this partnership, they built 313 Debonair AMGs, all featuring distinct cosmetic enhancements, which included a unique grille, ground effects, styled wheels, and a rear spoiler. This model was also powered by a supercharged 2.0-liter 4G63 engine that produced a respectable 195 horsepower, although detailed performance metrics remain elusive.

AMGs These Days

Today, AMG is intrinsically linked to Mercedes-Benz, taking the automaker’s mundane vehicles and transforming them into high-powered editions. Current examples include the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance, which boasts an impressive 671 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque generated from its 2.0-liter hybrid engine.

Another remarkable model is the Mercedes-AMG One, a pinnacle of advanced automotive engineering. Recently, the AMG ONE set a record for the fastest lap at the Nürburgring, clocking in at 6:29.090. Without the financial support from Mercedes-Benz, AMG’s status today might not be as formidable.

Sources:
CarThrottle.com
,
CarsAndBids.com