Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) 2.5i ST (175 Hp)

The Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) represents a distinct chapter in the automaker’s history, primarily catering to markets outside of North America. Launched in 1997 and produced until 2002, the Legnum was Mitsubishi’s mid-size station wagon offering, closely related to the eighth-generation Galant sedan. While the Galant sedan saw limited success in the United States, the Legnum, with its practical station wagon body style, carved out a niche in its primary markets, particularly Japan, Europe, and Oceania, where such vehicles enjoyed considerable popularity. The Legnum was designed to combine the driving dynamics and comfort of a sedan with the enhanced utility of an estate car, making it a versatile choice for families and individuals seeking both performance and practicality. The specific variant under review, the 2.5i ST (175 Hp), showcased Mitsubishi’s commitment to offering spirited V6 engines even in its more utilitarian models, providing a compelling blend of power and everyday usability.

Engineering and Performance of the Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) 2.5i ST

At the heart of the Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) 2.5i ST lies a robust 2.5-liter (2497 cm³ or 152.38 cu. in.) V6 engine, a naturally aspirated unit designed for smooth power delivery and respectable performance. This powerplant, configured with a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and four valves per cylinder, was a testament to Mitsubishi’s engineering capabilities in the late 1990s. It produced a healthy 175 horsepower at 6000 rpm, which was a competitive figure for a mid-size station wagon of its era. Torque output stood at 222 Nm (163.74 lb-ft) available at 4500 rpm, ensuring ample pulling power for daily driving and highway cruising.

The engine’s layout was front, transverse, driving the front wheels through a 5-speed manual transmission. This drivetrain architecture, while common for many family vehicles, allowed for efficient packaging and a predictable driving experience. The multi-port manifold injection system ensured precise fuel delivery, contributing to both performance and efficiency. With a compression ratio of 10:1, the engine was designed to operate effectively on regular unleaded gasoline. The Legnum 2.5i ST boasted a weight-to-power ratio of 8.9 kg per horsepower (112.9 Hp per tonne) and a weight-to-torque ratio of 7 kg per Nm (143.2 Nm per tonne), indicating a well-balanced power-to-weight characteristic for its segment.

Performance was further aided by a well-tuned suspension system, featuring coil springs at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride while maintaining competent handling. The braking system utilized ventilated discs on both the front and rear axles, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety and control during emergency stops. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup, augmented by hydraulic power steering, offering direct feedback and ease of maneuverability, which was crucial for a vehicle of its size.

Design and Features of the Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO)

The design of the Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) reflected the prevailing automotive aesthetics of the late 1990s, characterized by smooth, aerodynamic lines and a focus on functionality. As a 5-door station wagon (often referred to as an “estate” in European markets), its primary appeal lay in its versatility and cargo capacity. The Legnum shared many styling cues with its sedan counterpart, the Galant, including its distinctive front fascia and sculpted side panels, but extended into a practical rear cargo area.

Measuring 186.61 inches (4740 mm) in length, 69.29 inches (1760 mm) in width, and 57.87 inches (1470 mm) in height, the Legnum offered a spacious interior capable of accommodating five occupants comfortably. The wheelbase of 103.74 inches (2635 mm) contributed to a stable ride and generous cabin space. The design prioritized utility without sacrificing style, featuring a relatively low roofline for a wagon, giving it a somewhat sporty profile. The luggage compartment was easily accessible through a large tailgate, making loading and unloading cargo straightforward.

Beyond its spacious interior, the Legnum 2.5i ST was equipped with features aimed at enhancing both driving pleasure and occupant comfort. The standard tire size of 225/50 R16V provided a good balance of grip and ride comfort. Safety features for its time included the aforementioned ABS, which was becoming increasingly common but still a valuable asset. The overall package presented a vehicle that was practical for daily commutes, capable of long-distance travel, and sufficiently styled to appeal to a broad demographic in its target markets.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact

The Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) 2.5i ST, though not a household name in the United States, played a significant role in Mitsubishi’s product lineup in various international markets. It effectively competed in the mid-size station wagon segment, offering a compelling alternative to rivals like the Subaru Legacy Wagon, Toyota Caldina, and Nissan Stagea in Japan, and European equivalents such as the Audi A4 Avant or Ford Mondeo Estate in other regions. Its blend of a potent V6 engine, practical station wagon body, and Mitsubishi’s reputation for reliability made it an attractive option for buyers seeking a versatile and engaging family vehicle.

The Legnum’s market impact stemmed from its ability to bridge the gap between performance and utility. While many station wagons focused solely on cargo capacity, the 2.5i ST variant, with its 175 horsepower V6 and manual transmission, offered a more dynamic driving experience than typical family haulers. This appealed to enthusiasts who needed the practicality of a wagon but weren’t willing to compromise on driving engagement. Its relatively low curb weight of 3417.17 lbs (1550 kg) for a V6-powered wagon further contributed to its agile feel.

In hindsight, the Legnum (EAO) series, particularly its higher-performance variants, contributed to Mitsubishi’s image as an innovator capable of producing engaging vehicles across different segments. While the Legnum VR-4, with its twin-turbo engine and all-wheel drive, often garners more attention from enthusiasts, the 2.5i ST variant represented a more attainable yet still very capable option for the everyday consumer. Its robust mechanicals and well-thought-out design ensured a lasting reputation for durability and solid performance in the markets where it was sold.

Today, the Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) continues to be appreciated by a dedicated following, especially in countries where it was originally available or through import channels. Its status as a well-engineered, practical, and somewhat understated performance wagon from the late 1990s ensures its place in automotive history as a testament to Mitsubishi’s diverse product portfolio before the company shifted its focus predominantly to SUVs and crossovers.