Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) 1.8i ST (150 Hp) Automatic

The Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO): A Sporty Wagon from Japan

The Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO), produced from 1997 to 2002, represents a distinctive chapter in Mitsubishi Motors’ history, particularly in the Japanese domestic market (JDM) and select export territories such as Australia and New Zealand. As the station wagon variant of the eighth-generation Mitsubishi Galant, the Legnum carved out a niche for itself as a practical yet dynamically engaging family vehicle. Unlike many utilitarian wagons of its era, the Legnum was designed with a clear emphasis on sporty aesthetics and driving performance, embodying Mitsubishi’s philosophy of blending everyday usability with an enthusiast-oriented spirit. This article focuses on the 1.8i ST (150 Hp) Automatic variant, a popular and balanced offering within the Legnum lineup, showcasing its advanced technology and market positioning during its production run.

Engine and Performance of the Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) 1.8i ST

At the heart of the Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) 1.8i ST lies a sophisticated 1.8-liter (1834 cm³ or 111.92 cu. in.) inline-four gasoline engine. This powerplant was notable for its adoption of Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) technology, a significant innovation for a mainstream vehicle in 1997. GDI directly injects fuel into the combustion chambers, allowing for more precise fuel delivery and improved fuel efficiency, especially under light load conditions, while also contributing to higher power output and reduced emissions compared to conventional port injection systems.

The naturally aspirated engine delivers a respectable 150 horsepower at 5500 rpm, translating to a power-per-liter output of 81.8 Hp/l. Torque stands at 179 Nm (132.02 lb.-ft.) at 5000 rpm, providing ample pulling power for daily driving and highway cruising. With a high compression ratio of 12:1 and four valves per cylinder, the engine was designed for optimal combustion and responsiveness. The engine’s layout is front and transverse, driving the front wheels through a smooth-shifting 4-speed automatic transmission. This drivetrain architecture, combined with the efficient GDI engine, offered a commendable balance of performance and fuel economy for a vehicle of its class and era.

Considering its curb weight of 3417.17 lbs (1550 kg), the Legnum 1.8i ST achieved a weight-to-power ratio of 10.3 kg/Hp (96.8 Hp/tonne) and a weight-to-torque ratio of 8.7 kg/Nm (115.5 Nm/tonne). These figures suggest a lively yet comfortable driving experience, well-suited for both urban commutes and longer journeys. The car’s performance was not about outright speed, but rather about delivering a refined and efficient ride with adequate power on tap, a characteristic highly valued in its primary markets.

Design and Features: The Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) Aesthetic

The Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) embodies a sleek and aerodynamic station wagon design, standing apart from many of its more boxy contemporaries. Measuring 186.61 inches (4740 mm) in length, 69.29 inches (1760 mm) in width, and 57.87 inches (1470 mm) in height, with a wheelbase of 103.74 inches (2635 mm), the Legnum presented a balanced and athletic stance. Its design cues were largely shared with the eighth-generation Galant sedan, featuring a distinctive front fascia and sculpted body lines that contributed to its sporty appeal.

As a 5-door, 5-seat station wagon, the Legnum was engineered for practicality without compromising on style. The spacious interior offered versatility for passengers and cargo, making it an ideal choice for families or individuals requiring extra utility. The rear hatch provided easy access to a generous cargo area, further enhancing its functional appeal.

In terms of features and safety, the Legnum 1.8i ST came equipped with several advanced systems for its time. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing braking control and safety in adverse conditions. The vehicle utilized ventilated disc brakes on both the front and rear axles, providing robust stopping power. Suspension was managed by coil springs at both the front and rear, tuned to offer a comfortable ride while maintaining competent handling characteristics. Steering was a hydraulic rack and pinion system, providing direct and communicative feedback to the driver. The car rode on 16-inch wheel rims, shod with 225/50 R16 V tires, which further underscored its sporty intentions and contributed to its stable road holding.

Technical Specifications: Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) 1.8i ST (150 Hp) Automatic

Legacy and Market Impact of the Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO)

The Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) played a significant role in the Japanese and Australasian automotive markets, representing Mitsubishi’s commitment to offering practical vehicles with a strong dose of driving enjoyment. While not officially sold in the United States, its legacy is often recognized by enthusiasts who appreciate its relation to the performance-oriented Galant VR-4, even though the 1.8i ST variant focused more on efficiency and everyday usability.

In its primary markets, the Legnum competed against other popular Japanese wagons such as the Subaru Legacy Wagon, Toyota Caldina, and Nissan Stagea. What set the Legnum apart was its distinctive styling, advanced engine technology (GDI), and a chassis that offered a more engaging driving experience than many of its rivals. It appealed to buyers who needed the utility of a station wagon but desired something more dynamic and less mundane than a traditional family hauler.

The introduction of GDI technology in a mass-market vehicle like the Legnum was a testament to Mitsubishi’s engineering prowess during the late 1990s. This innovation highlighted the brand’s forward-thinking approach to fuel efficiency and performance, positioning the Legnum as a technologically advanced option. Over time, the GDI system, while groundbreaking, also presented some maintenance challenges, particularly in markets with lower fuel quality, which impacted its long-term reputation in some regions. However, in Japan, where fuel quality was consistently high, the GDI engines performed admirably.

Today, the Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) holds a respected place in the enthusiast community, particularly among those who import JDM vehicles. It is valued for its robust construction, reliable powertrain (when properly maintained), and the unique blend of sportiness and practicality that defines the best of Japanese wagons from that era. Its sleek design has aged gracefully, and its capabilities still provide a satisfying driving experience. The Legnum remains a symbol of an era when Mitsubishi was a formidable innovator, producing vehicles that balanced cutting-edge technology with everyday appeal.