The Mitsubishi 4G16 is a 1,597 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1988 and 2003. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8 valves, and multi-point fuel injection in later variants, delivering 66–77 kW (90–105 PS) and 129–140 Nm of torque. Its simple pushrod-free valvetrain and cast-iron block prioritise durability and ease of service over high performance.
Fitted to models such as the Lancer (CB/CC), Mirage (CA), and Space Runner, the 4G16 was engineered for cost-effective urban mobility and emerging markets. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic fuel injection and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 1 standards in European markets during its production run.
One documented concern is head gasket failure in high-mileage or overheated engines, highlighted in Mitsubishi Service Bulletin ENG‑92‑005. This issue stems from thermal stress at the cylinder head interface, particularly when coolant maintenance is neglected or the engine is operated with low coolant levels.
Production years 1988–2003 meet Euro 1 standards in applicable markets (Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Type Approval #MLIT‑G4G16‑1990).
The Mitsubishi 4G16 is a 1,597 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (1988–2003). It combines SOHC architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver reliable urban performance and straightforward maintenance. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritises mechanical simplicity and longevity over modern efficiency metrics.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,597 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.4 mm × 83.0 mm | |
| Power output | 66–77 kW (90–105 PS) @ 5,500–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 129–140 Nm @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | API SG/SH, SAE 10W‑30 or 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The SOHC design provides adequate low-RPM torque for city driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference damage. The cast-iron block offers excellent durability but is susceptible to head gasket failure if coolant is not maintained or the engine overheats. Use of API SG/SH 10W‑30 or 10W‑40 oil is essential; modern low-viscosity oils may not provide sufficient protection for the older valvetrain. The absence of variable valve timing simplifies diagnostics but limits fuel efficiency by modern standards.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/SH (10W‑30 or 10W‑40) per Mitsubishi Owner’s Manual. Not compatible with ILSAC GF‑5 or ACEA C-category oils.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all European-market 4G16 units (EU Directive 91/441/EEC). Japanese domestic models follow MLIT standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output variance reflects regional calibration differences (Mitsubishi PT‑2000).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG‑4G16‑SPEC, ENG‑92‑005
Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) Type Approval #MLIT‑G4G16‑1990
EU Directive 91/441/EEC on emissions
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Mitsubishi 4G16 was used across Mitsubishi's Compact Global platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the Mirage and updated engine mounts in the Lancer—and from 1995 the facelifted Space Runner adopted updated ECU calibration, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Mitsubishi TIS ENG‑4G16‑ID). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine displacement ('6' for 1.6L). Early models (1988–1994) use black valve covers with external distributor; post-1995 units have black covers with distributorless ignition. Critical differentiation: engines built before 1995 use carburettor or throttle-body injection; MPFI variants from 1995 onward are identified by sequential injector harness and ECU part number MR578123 (Mitsubishi SB ENG‑92‑005).
The 4G16's primary reliability risk is head gasket failure in high-mileage or thermally stressed engines, with elevated incidence in neglected cooling systems. Mitsubishi internal field data (1998) indicated up to 10% of engines exceeding 200,000 km required head gasket replacement, while EU consumer reports cite timing belt neglect as a secondary concern. Infrequent coolant changes and extended oil intervals accelerate thermal degradation, making fluid maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1992–2000) and EU consumer safety agency failure statistics (1995–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4G16.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with MITSUBISHI or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
MITSUBISHI Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialMITSUBISHI documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
