Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) 2.4i ST (165 Hp) Automatic

The Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO): A JDM Wagon Blending Practicality and Performance

The Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) represents a significant chapter in the Japanese automaker’s history, specifically designed as the station wagon variant of the eighth-generation Galant sedan. Produced from 1997 to 2002, the Legnum (EAO) was primarily targeted at the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM), with limited availability in select international markets such as Australia and parts of Europe, where its combination of practicality and dynamic styling found an appreciative audience. Unlike its sedan counterpart, which was more widely exported, the Legnum maintained a distinct identity, catering to families and individuals who required greater cargo capacity without sacrificing driving engagement. The 2.4i ST (165 Hp) Automatic model, the focus of this article, offered a compelling blend of a capable four-cylinder engine, a smooth automatic transmission, and the inherent versatility of a station wagon body, establishing itself as a reliable and well-equipped contender in its segment.

Engine & Performance: The Heart of the Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) 2.4i ST

At the core of the Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) 2.4i ST lies a robust and well-engineered powertrain designed to deliver a balanced driving experience. This particular variant is equipped with a 2.4-liter (2378 cubic inches) inline-four engine, a staple of Mitsubishi’s engineering prowess during this era. The engine features a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, a configuration that was advanced for its time and contributed to both efficient breathing and a strong power delivery across the rev range. With a compression ratio of 9.5:1, the naturally aspirated engine utilizes a multi-port manifold injection system to precisely deliver gasoline, optimizing combustion and fuel economy.

Outputting a respectable 165 horsepower at 6000 rpm, the 2.4i ST was more than capable of handling daily commuting and longer journeys, even when fully loaded. Torque figures stand at 217 Nm, which translates to approximately 160.05 lb-ft, peaking at a accessible 4000 rpm. This torque delivery ensured responsive acceleration from low speeds and ample pulling power, crucial for a family-oriented station wagon. The engine’s front, transverse layout, combined with a front-wheel-drive architecture, provided predictable handling characteristics and maximized interior space. Power was managed through a smooth-shifting 4-speed automatic transmission, which was well-suited for urban driving and highway cruising, prioritizing comfort and ease of use. With a weight-to-power ratio of 9.4 kg/Hp (106.5 Hp/tonne) and a weight-to-torque ratio of 7.1 kg/Nm (140 Nm/tonne), the Legnum 2.4i ST offered a sprightly performance for its class, making it an enjoyable vehicle to drive.

Design & Features: Practicality Meets Style in the Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO)

The design of the Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) was a testament to Mitsubishi’s commitment to creating vehicles that were both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. As a five-door station wagon, it offered superior cargo versatility compared to its sedan sibling, making it an ideal choice for families, hobbyists, or anyone needing extra space. The Legnum’s exterior styling was characterized by sleek lines and a contemporary profile that integrated seamlessly with the Galant’s aggressive front fascia, distinguishing it from more conventional wagons of the period. Its overall length of 186.61 inches (4740 mm), width of 69.29 inches (1760 mm), and height of 57.87 inches (1470 mm) gave it a substantial road presence, while the 103.74-inch (2635 mm) wheelbase contributed to a stable ride and generous interior room for five occupants.

Inside, the Legnum offered a comfortable and ergonomic cabin, typical of Japanese vehicles of its era. Practicality was a key focus, with ample storage solutions and a well-thought-out dashboard layout. The kerb weight of 3417.17 lbs (1550 kg) underscored its solid construction, contributing to a sense of security and stability. For dynamic control and safety, the Legnum 2.4i ST was equipped with coil spring suspension at both the front and rear, providing a balanced ride quality that absorbed road imperfections effectively while maintaining composure during cornering. Braking was handled by ventilated discs on both the front and rear wheels, a feature that enhanced stopping power and reduced fade, particularly important for a vehicle capable of carrying significant loads. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was a standard assisting system, providing crucial stability during emergency braking situations. Steering was managed by a responsive rack and pinion system, complemented by hydraulic power steering, ensuring ease of maneuverability at low speeds and a connected feel on the highway. The vehicle rode on 16-inch wheel rims fitted with 225/50 R16V tires, offering a good balance of grip and ride comfort.

Technical Specifications: Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) 2.4i ST (165 Hp) Automatic

Legacy & Market Impact of the Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO)

The Mitsubishi Legnum (EAO) carved out a notable niche in the highly competitive mid-size segment, particularly in markets where station wagons were still a preferred choice for family transport. Its reputation was built on a foundation of Mitsubishi’s renowned reliability, coupled with a practical design and a surprisingly engaging driving experience for a family wagon. While the Legnum was not officially sold in the United States, its presence in the Japanese Domestic Market and other key regions allowed it to compete with a strong lineup of rivals. In Japan, it faced off against popular wagons like the Toyota Caldina, Nissan Avenir, and Subaru Legacy Wagon, each vying for market share among buyers seeking utility and comfort.

What set the Legnum apart was its distinctive styling, which inherited the sporty DNA of the Galant sedan, often perceived as more dynamic than some of its more conservative competitors. The 2.4i ST model, with its potent 165 HP engine and automatic transmission, offered a compelling package that balanced everyday usability with sufficient power for highway cruising and light towing. Its advanced features for the late 1990s, such as DOHC engine technology, ventilated disc brakes all around, and standard ABS, underscored Mitsubishi’s commitment to engineering excellence and safety in its mainstream offerings. The Legnum’s robust construction and well-sorted chassis contributed to a comfortable ride and predictable handling, making it a favorite among those who appreciated a more driver-focused wagon.

Historically, the Legnum (EAO) represented a period when Mitsubishi was at the forefront of combining practicality with performance, offering variants that ranged from economical family haulers to high-performance VR-4 models. The 2.4i ST, positioned in the middle, showcased the brand’s ability to offer a well-rounded vehicle that met the diverse needs of consumers. Its discontinuation in 2002 reflected the broader automotive trend of declining wagon sales in favor of the burgeoning SUV market. Despite this, the Legnum remains a respected vehicle among enthusiasts and a testament to Mitsubishi’s engineering capabilities during its golden era. It holds a significant place in the narrative of JDM vehicles that offered a unique blend of utility, style, and performance, continuing to be appreciated for its robust build quality and timeless design.