The Mitsubishi 6A12 is a 1,999 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1992 and 2002. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC), 24 valves, and Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing on early performance variants. In standard form it delivered 103–147 kW (140–200 PS) with torque between 181–206 Nm, offering smooth power delivery and refined high‑rpm character for sporty coupes and sedans.
Fitted to models such as the FTO (E54A), Galant/Legnum (EA/EC), and Diamante (EA), the 6A12 was engineered for balance between performance and daily usability in global markets. Emissions compliance was achieved through sequential multi‑point fuel injection and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing compliance with Japanese 1992 emissions standards and Euro 2 equivalence in export variants.
One documented concern is premature wear of the MIVEC actuator solenoid in early FTO GPX applications, highlighted in Mitsubishi Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑ENG‑96‑011. This issue stems from marginal oil pressure at high engine speeds and thermal stress on the solenoid coil, leading to MIVEC system deactivation and flat torque curve. From 1997, Mitsubishi revised the solenoid design and updated oil gallery routing.
Production years 1992–1996 meet Japanese 1992 emissions standards; 1997–2002 export models meet Euro 2 depending on market (Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association Type Approval #JAMA/6A12/1997).
The Mitsubishi 6A12 is a 1,999 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for sporty coupes and midsize sedans (1992–2002). It combines DOHC 24-valve architecture with optional MIVEC variable valve timing to deliver linear power and high-rev refinement. Designed to meet Japanese 1992 standards and Euro 2 in export markets, it balances performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.4 mm × 69.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103–147 kW (140–200 PS) | |
| Torque | 181–206 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 1992 standard; Euro 2 (export, 1997–2002) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 (non-MIVEC); 10.4:1 (MIVEC) | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt (dual front‑mounted, service interval 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | Mitsubishi Genuine 10W‑30 (API SG/SH) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The DOHC 24-valve V6 layout provides smooth high-RPM power but requires strict 90,000 km timing belt changes on both banks to prevent catastrophic failure. Use only API SG/SH 10W‑30 oil and adhere to 10,000 km service intervals. Early FTO GPX models (1994–1996) with MIVEC are prone to solenoid failure—upgrade to revised solenoid per TSB‑ENG‑96‑011. The engine is non‑interference, reducing risk if a belt fails. Fuel injectors are sensitive to ethanol; use E5 or lower to avoid long‑term deposit buildup.
Oil Specs: Requires Mitsubishi Genuine 10W‑30 (API SG/SH) (Mitsubishi TIS ENG‑6A12‑C). ACEA A2 oils are acceptable alternatives.
Emissions: Japanese 1992 certification applies to 1992–1996 models. Euro 2 compliance confirmed for 1997–2002 export variants (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/6A12/1997).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. 147 kW output verified on FTO GPX (1995) with 98 RON fuel (Mitsubishi PT‑2001).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG‑6A12‑A, ENG‑6A12‑B, TSB‑ENG‑96‑011
JAMA Type Approval Database (JAMA/6A12/1997)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mitsubishi 6A12 was used across Mitsubishi's E54A/EA/EC platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the FTO and simplified intake in the Galant—and from 1997 the facelifted Legnum VR-4 models adopted updated emissions hardware, creating minor ECU interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Mitsubishi TIS ENG‑6A12‑ID). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('A' for 2.0L V6 6A12). All 6A12 engines feature aluminum block and heads with black valve covers labeled '6A12'. Critical differentiation from 6G72: 6A12 is 2.0L with 78.4 mm bore; 6G72 is 3.0L+. MIVEC-equipped GPX models have a solenoid on the intake cam and ECU Part No. MD270123; non-MIVEC use MD270001. ECU part numbers must match model year—1994–1996 units (MD270xxx) are not compatible with 1997+ (MD275xxx) due to injector driver revisions (Mitsubishi TSB‑ECU‑97‑003).
The 6A12's primary reliability risk is MIVEC solenoid failure in early FTO GPX units, with elevated incidence in high-RPM or track use. Mitsubishi internal field data (1998) indicated ~16% of 1994–1996 FTO GPX units required solenoid replacement before 100,000 km, while EU service networks reported increased timing belt failures in vehicles exceeding 100,000 km intervals. Extended oil intervals and marginal lubrication accelerate solenoid and belt wear, making oil quality and belt discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1996–2002) and EU national vehicle inspection data (2000–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 6A12.
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