The Mitsubishi 4G33 is one of the early engines in the Saturn series, which was introduced in the 1970s and used in various models of Mitsubishi vehicles. This engine was relatively simple, reliable and unpretentious to maintain. Although it did not feature advanced technology, its role in the history of Mitsubishi and the automobile industry was significant.
The Mitsubishi 4G33 1.4-liter engine was produced from 1970 to 1998 and was installed in a wide range of models, including passenger cars and commercial vehicles such as the Mitsubishi Lancer, Galant, and Delica. This engine, depending on the modification, could be equipped with both carburetor and injector power system, which provided a variety in power characteristics.
Mitsubishi 4G33 engine specifications
| Parameter | 4G33 (carburetor) | 4G33B (Injector) |
|---|---|---|
| Exact displacement | 1439 cm³ | 1439 cm³ |
| Power system | Carburetor | Injector |
| Power | 68 – 75 hp | 70 – 75 hp |
| Torque | 104 – 117 Nm | 108 – 121 Nm |
| Cylinder block | Cast iron R4 | Cast iron R4 |
| Cylinder head | Aluminum 8v | Aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder diameter | 73 mm | 73 mm |
| Piston stroke | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Compression ratio | 8.5 – 9.0 | 9.0 |
| Hydrocompensators | No | No |
| Transmission timing | Belt | Belt |
| Fasoregulator | No | No |
| Turbocharger | No | No |
| Oil | 4.0 liter 5W-40 | 4.0 liter 5W-40 |
| Environmental class | EURO 0 | EURO 1/2 |
| Example service life | 250,000 km | 275,000 km |
| Engine weight | 125 kg | 125 kg |
Carbureted fuel system
Unlike later engines using electronic fuel injection, the 4G33 was equipped with a carburetor. This made it simpler in terms of design, but less efficient in terms of fuel economy and emissions management. However, carbureted engines were the standard for their time, and the 4G33 was advanced enough for low-budget cars.
Massive use in international markets
The engine was widely used not only in Japan, but also in export markets such as Australia, South America, and Southeast Asia. Mitsubishi actively exported its cars, and the 4G33 played an important role in building the brand’s reputation in the international arena as a manufacturer of reliable and inexpensive cars. The simplicity of the engine made it attractive to countries with less developed service infrastructure, where reliability and maintainability were important.
Car models with 4G33 engine
- Mitsubishi Galant A50: 1970 – 1973
- Mitsubishi Delica: 1979 – 1994
- Mitsubishi Lancer A70: 1973 – 1976
- Mitsubishi Lancer A140: 1976 – 1979
- Mitsubishi Celeste: 1975 – 1982
- Hyundai Pony: 1975 – 1990
- Hyundai Stellar: 1983 – 1987
Main problems and defects of 4G33 engine
- Carburetor problems: The carburetor of this model often fails and requires frequent adjustment.
- Low timing belt life: The timing belt and balance shafts have a relatively short life span.
- Oil Leakage: Oil can leak through gaskets and oil seals, eventually damaging the belts.
- Wear and tear on engine mounts: Engine mounts wear out fairly quickly.
- Valve adjustment: Due to the lack of hydrocompensators, the valves require regular manual adjustment.
- Fuel pump: Has a short life span and often needs to be replaced.
The 4G33 engine was popular for its simplicity and reliability, but had a few design flaws that required owners’ attention to maintain its longevity.
Engine Rating 4.
Retro Value
These days, 4G33 engines and cars with them have gained retro value among collectors and lovers of old Japanese cars. Restored cars with this engine can be found at various retro car shows where they attract attention for their authenticity and historical significance.
Thus, the 4G33 represents not only a simple and reliable engine of its time, but also an important element in the history of Mitsubishi’s development, as well as part of the heritage of the Japanese automobile industry of the 1970s.