1992 Mitsubishi Magna TR review from Australia and New Zealand
"A good car to use as a project car as it has a lot of potential"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Timing Chain and guides needed replacing at 125,000 km.
Clutch needed replacing at 130,000 km.
Balance Shaft and chain broke at 150,000 km.
Bad rust needed removing in boot (behind driver's side tail light)
Roof lining needs to be fixed as the moisture from the boot has caused it to start peeling off.
General comments?
This car in standard form has 85 kW and is not exactly a quick car in stock form. Most of the torque is under 4000 rpm so it is a little sluggish above 4000rpm.
5-speed Manual trans-axle is a little rough at times, but is relatively smooth in operation.
A good exhaust (2" to 2.5" from the cat back) and high flow muffler is a start to getting more out of the motor, as well as making it sound more sporty.
Interior is relatively roomy and comfortable, but is a little on the plain side. Plenty of boot space for Sub-woofers and Amps. :)
The cars suspension is made more for comfort, but the car is able to corner quite well with stock suspension although it under steers when cornering hard. Upgrading the rims from 14" to 16", lowering the car 2" and stiffening the suspension makes a lot of difference in handling as it eliminates most of the under steer.
If a lot more power is wanted a turbo can be added (Garrett T03 or similar size), but boost should remain under 10 psi unless forged pistons and upgraded engine components are installed.
Stereo is crap so an upgraded stereo is a must. I have a Pioneer head unit, Pioneer 4" replacing the dash speakers, Pioneer 6x9" in the front doors and the parcel shelf running off a 1200W amp and 2 12" sub-woofers in the boot running off the same amp.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.6L Astron II Carburettor Manual |
| Performance marks | 4/10 |
| Reliability marks | 6/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 120000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 157500 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 2nd October, 2003 |

