The Mitsubishi 6A12 engine is a 2.0-liter V6 engine produced by Japanese automaker Mitsubishi from 1992 to 2010. The motor was installed on popular models of the company, such as Galant, Diamante, Emeraude and others, and after 2000 it was widely used on Proton cars. This power unit was offered in various modifications, including SOHC, DOHC, DOHC-MIVEC and Twin Turbo. Each version had its own features and characteristic technical parameters, which made the 6A12 suitable for both everyday use and sporty use.
Characteristics of Mitsubishi 6A12 engine by modifications
General data of the 6A12 engine
Parameter |
Value |
Exact volume |
1998 cm³ |
Cylinder block |
Cast-iron, V6 |
Cylinder head |
Aluminum, 24 valves |
Cylinder diameter |
78.4 mm |
Piston stroke |
69 mm |
Transmission timing |
Belt |
Hydrocompensators |
Yes |
Recommended oil |
5W-40 |
Example weight |
170 kg |
Environmental class |
Euro 2/3 |
Modification 6A12 SOHC
Parameter |
Value |
Engine power |
145 – 150 hp |
Torque |
180 Nm |
Compression ratio |
9.5 to 10.4 |
Turbocharging |
No |
Environmental class |
Euro 2 |
Engine life |
300,000 km |
Modification 6A12 DOHC
Parameter |
Value |
Engine power |
170 – 180 hp |
Torque |
190 Nm |
Compression ratio |
10 |
Turbocharging |
No |
Environmental class |
Euro 2/3 |
Engine life |
250,000 km |
Modification 6A12 DOHC-MIVEC
Parameter |
Value |
Engine power |
200 hp |
Torque |
200 Nm |
Compression ratio |
10 |
Fasor regulator |
MIVEC |
Turbocharger |
No |
Environmental class |
Euro 3 |
Engine life |
220,000 km |
Rare modification 6A12 Twin Turbo
Parameter |
Value |
Engine power |
220 – 240 hp |
Torque |
250 Nm |
Compression ratio |
8.5 |
Turbocharging |
Twin Turbo |
Environmental class |
Euro 2 |
Engine life |
200,000 km |
Application of the engine
The 6A12 engine was installed in the following Mitsubishi vehicles:
- Mitsubishi Diamante (1992-1994)
- Mitsubishi Emeraude (1992-1996)
- Mitsubishi Eterna (1992-1996)
- Mitsubishi FTO (1994-2001)
- Mitsubishi Galant (1992-1996)
- Mitsubishi Legnum (1996-1998)
- Mitsubishi Sigma (1990-1994)
After 2000, 6A12 engines were actively used on Proton models.
Disadvantages and common problems of 6A12 engine
- Maintenance Difficulty: The tight layout under the hood makes it difficult to access major engine components.
- Wear and tear on the timing belt: The belt often needs to be replaced before the 90,000km mark, which can cause valve damage if it breaks.
- O idle speed regulator (ICE) problems: Malfunctions of the idle converter cause the engine to stall at idle.
- Wear and tear on the hydraulic compensators: If low quality oil is used, the hydraulic compensators will quickly wear out and start knocking.
- Liner Problems: Low oil pressure or lack of oil pressure can cause the liners to rotate and require overhaul.