1997-2004 Mitsubishi Diamante: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Built in Australia, Mitsubishi's front-drive near-luxury sedan served as its U.S. "flagship." A previous Diamante had been marketed through 1995, but consigned to the rental-fleet business in '96, its final season. Redesigned for 1997, the new Diamante was nearly 4 inches longer than before, with a bigger interior and crisper styling than its predecessor. The V6 engine also grew in size, to 3.5 liters with a 210-horsepower rating. Only a sedan was produced this time; the former station wagon was gone. Rivals included the Infiniti I30, Lexus ES 300, Acura TL, Mazda Millenia, and Nissan Maxima ES. Diamantes came in base ES or upscale LS trim. Despite an unchanged wheelbase, interior volume grew by 7.4 cubic feet. Weight dropped by nearly 250 pounds, thanks to greater use of aluminum components. Dual front airbags were standard, with antilock brakes an option. The standard 4-speed automatic transmission varied its shifts depending upon the driver's style. Standard equipment included power windows, mirrors and locks; a security system; automatic climate control; cassette stereo; 15-inch tires; and a 3-point rear center seatbelt. The LS sedan added wider 16-inch tires on alloy wheels, a power driver's seat, CD player, and leather interior trim. New options included a built-in rear child-safety seat.