1997 Mitsubishi Magna TF 3.0 SOHC
Summary:
Great Car - Highly Recommended and Sad to see the Magna series stopped
Faults:
Nothing has gone terribly wrong with the car to really comment here!
Battery will suddenly go flat without warning, leaving one stranded, but this is not really something wrong with the vehicle - just thought I'd mention it.
The idle speed jumped to 3000rpm after a throttle body clean, this was easily reset my the dealer for under $30.
The CV Joints are starting to chatter since 270000 kms.
Deflector inside the exhaust manufold "Y-Pipe" came loose and made an embarrassing noise - cost me $100 to have the Y-Pipe removed, split open and the noisy part removed. This has not made any impact on the car at all..
General Comments:
Fairly good performance for a 3.0L V6 - could do with a little more torque dialed in below 3000rpm.
Transmission is great, very smooth changes, does not hunt between overdrive, 4th and 3rd when ascending up hills. I like the way MMAL have programmed this tranny.
Brakes have been great. The rears had the original pads with enough friction material to last another 50,000kms, when I last changed them at 250,000kms.
The front brakes discs are in need of replacement - not to shabby for a car that is 270,000+ kms old.
Engine is starting to use oil, but I cannot see where it is going, the plugs and engine are clean?!?
The Engine is quiet and still smooth and very responsive. I use synthetic oil to keep the inside clean.
Put the car on LPG at 196,000kms and it has received the conversion very well, city cycle is about 12.5l / 100kms on LPG and 8 - 11l per 100kms.
Overall my experience with this vehicle is very positive. I do not have the heart to sell it and if the motor or tranny ever died, I would replace them.
Great looking car, quiet and smooth, very refined ride. Handles very well. Body is perfect!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 15th September, 2008
9th Mar 2011, 22:34
Yep, a really comfortable car if somewhat uninspired, but what do you expect for the price?
My only issue is a persistent oil leak from the front rocker cover. I keep replacing the gasket and it's OK for 6 months, then it's off again. Good fuel economy and I can fit an iced coffee in the slot in the console. I just wish it would stop leaking oil...