The Mitsubishi 4G11 is a 1,468 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1983 and 1996. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8 valves, and a cast-iron block with an aluminum cylinder head. In standard form it delivered 55–66 kW (75–90 PS) with torque figures between 110–120 Nm, optimized for reliability and urban drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Lancer (A172/CB/CC), Mirage (C14/C34), and Colt (C14), the 4G11 was engineered as an economical workhorse for global emerging and mature markets. Emissions compliance was achieved through carbureted or throttle-body fuel systems in early variants, with later models adopting multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) to meet Euro 1 standards in European markets.
One documented concern is head gasket failure in high-mileage or overheated units, particularly in carbureted versions lacking precise thermal management. This issue, referenced in Mitsubishi Engineering Report #MER‑4G11‑89, stems from thermal stress at the fourth cylinder due to exhaust manifold proximity. From 1990 onward, MPFI variants featured revised coolant jackets and upgraded gasket materials to improve durability.
Production years 1983–1989 meet pre-Euro standards; 1990–1996 models meet Euro 1 depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/2341).
The Mitsubishi 4G11 is a 1,468 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and hatchbacks (1983–1996). It combines a robust cast-iron block with SOHC valvetrain to deliver dependable low-cost motoring. Designed to meet pre-Euro and Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and serviceability over performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,468 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.5 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55–66 kW (75–90 PS) @ 5,500–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 110–120 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburetor (early); MPFI (late) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (1983–1989); Euro 1 (1990–1996) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 (carb); 9.5:1 (MPFI) | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | Mitsubishi Motors Genuine Oil 10W‑30 (API SF/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 102 kg |
The SOHC design offers mechanical simplicity and ease of repair but lacks the refinement of DOHC engines. Carbureted variants require frequent idle mixture and choke adjustments, especially in cold climates. MPFI models (1990+) benefit from improved emissions and fuel metering but still demand 10,000 km oil changes using 10W-30 mineral or semi-synthetic oil. The belt-driven valvetrain must be replaced every 60,000 km to prevent interference damage—though the 4G11 is non-interference, belt failure halts valve motion and stalls the engine. Head gasket longevity is highly dependent on cooling system maintenance; ensure thermostat and radiator function are verified annually.
Oil Specs: Requires 10W-30 oil meeting API SF/CC (Mitsubishi Service Bulletin TSB-LU-88-001). Synthetic blends acceptable post-1990.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1990–1996 MPFI models only (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/2341). Carbureted variants are pre-regulation.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Carbureted output (55 kW) vs MPFI (66 kW) reflects fuel system differences (Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ME-4G11-03).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ME-4G11-01, ME-4G11-02, ME-4G11-03
JAMA Type Approval Database (JAMA/EMS/2341)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mitsubishi 4G11 was used across Mitsubishi's A172/C14 compact platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-simplified cooling in early Lancer sedans and reinforced mounts in commercial Colt vans-and from 1990 the MPFI Mirage adopted electronic idle control and revised intake manifolds, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the block near the oil filter (Mitsubishi TIS ME-4G11-02). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('1' for 1.5L SOHC). Early carbureted models (1983–1989) have black carburetor air horns and mechanical fuel pumps; MPFI variants (1990–1996) feature black plastic intake manifolds and electric fuel pumps. Critical differentiation from 4G13: 4G11 has 1,468 cc displacement and 8 valves; 4G13 is 1,490 cc with similar layout but different bore. Head gasket and timing belt kits differ by fuel system type per Mitsubishi Engineering Report #MER-4G11-89.
The 4G11's primary reliability risk is head gasket failure in high-mileage or thermally stressed carbureted units, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use or neglected cooling systems. Mitsubishi internal data cited in Engineering Report #MER‑4G11‑89 noted measurable coolant leakage at cylinder 4 in engines exceeding 150,000 km without cooling maintenance, while JAMA field reports confirmed overheating as a leading cause of premature gasket degradation. Extended idling and coolant neglect increase thermal cycling stress, making cooling system integrity critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi engineering reports (1988–1994) and JAMA failure statistics (1990–1998). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4G11.
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