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Старый 02.11.2006, 17:29   #1
ivan_pl
 
Аватар для ivan_pl
 
Регистрация: 04.10.2006
Адрес: МСК
Имя: Иван
Авто: Plymouth Laser AWD Turbo MT`92 Black
Сообщений: 345
Отлично написанная история ДСМ (по аглицки)

стырено отсюда (вроде это страничка автора)
http://www.geocities.com/seegs_82/Index.html
Кстати, кто там сомневался про американских галантов VR4 ?




I have tried to bring you the most complete and accurate account of Diamond Star Motor history. Please keep in mind that the information is as accurate as could be obtained and some data was provided by Chrysler and/or Mitsubishi Motors. I have tried to offer the reader something other than the "basic" history of the DSM line. This is probably the most comprehensive history that you will find on the internet. In addition, this is almost a closing, a tribute if you will, to the first and second generation cars since I don't consider the 2000+ Eclipse "part of the family." Although some do refer to it as a third generation (3G). With The names Plymouth Laser, Mitsubishi Eclipse***, and Eagle Talon are property of their respected owners. If you would like to contribute information to this section feel free to contact me at seegs@hotmail.com You can also specifications on the car here.
The "base" for the relations between Chrysler and Mitsubishi began in 1970 when Chrysler agreed to import and distribute cars manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation under the Plymouth and Dodge brand names. This was to be the foundation for the Diamond Star Motor division.
The mid eighties proved to be troublesome times for the Chrysler Corporation. Sales slumped significantly. Consumers were simply not spending the money on new cars as they had done in the past. One thing was for certain, Chrysler needed an answer and needed one fast. On the other hand, Mitsubishi had its own troubles. They were looking to sell more cars in the U.S. without violating the voluntary import-quota system. This meant that they would need to construct a plant in the United States.

Mitsubishi came to Chrysler's rescue in 1985, forming Diamond Star Motors. The Diamond Star Motors Division was created out of necessity for each side. Each company believed they would benefit greatly. Chrysler sought to replace its front wheel drive Laser, which was cancelled in 1986, with a sports car. Mitsubishi looked to increase their foreign sales. Since, each company's budget was tight both agreed to pool engineering and design resources to make their new car a reality.
Originally, the Laser coupe, which was test named the X2S, was to carry a 2.6L V6 as its top motor choice. This prototype engine was from the Starion/Conquest. Turbocharging was to be an option as well. As you know, the turbocharged inline four was chosen.
(note: DSM cars produced from 1990-1994 are known as First Generation (1G), DSM cars produced from 1995-1999 are known as Second Generation (2G).
Obviously, the next step was to select the location for the DSM manufacturing facility. Many locations were researched. With the data complied, Bloomington-Normal, Illinois was selected for its "prime location, enviable quality of life, and a community spirit second to none." Construction began immediately. With its completion, the Diamond Star Motors plant could produce up to 240,000 vehicles per year. The plant was to produce the Eagle Talon, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Plymouth Laser, Mitsubishi 3000GT, Dodge Stealth, and the Mitsubishi Galant. At the time of its construction, the plant was was and still is one of the most technologically complex car manufacturing centers in the world. The manufacturing process is so flexible that it is able to produce up to six different models on a single line. 600 industrial robots are used to achieve 90% automation in the welding and 20% automation in the final assembly line. See Production Numbers Here.
Quick Facts about MMMA Site Area2.57 million sq. m.Floor Space190,000 sq. m.Capacity240,000 units per year (2 shifts)
The credit for the design of the cars is still debated today. Both companies claim credit for different design areas. It is a fact that the DSM line is based on a shortened version of the front wheel drive Mitsubishi Galant.
Incorporated into the Diamond Star Motor cars are Galant engines, gearboxes, and suspension pieces. Mitsubishi handled virtually all of the engineering and was also responsible for the cars' interior design. It is hard to say for certain who created the sporty design of the 2+2 seater. Designers from both Chrysler and Mitsubishi were involved in all phases of the styling process, but the two companies disagree about the amount each contributed. It has been pointed out that the original, full-size clay model was produced by Chrysler's West Coast Pacifica design studio. The front bumper and air dam were created from a model submitted by Mitsubishi's California design firm.
Nevertheless, all three cars are mechanically identical. The famous All Wheel Drive Viscous Coupling System was not incorporated until late Spring. The partners agreed that it would be more beneficial to the company not to rush an advanced system of this nature into a new car assembly plant. ABS would also be introduced with the AWD systems. The first AWD cars were to be released under Chrysler's Eagle division
Production began in August of 1989*. There were four models to choose from. There was the base model (SOHC 1.8L, 4G37)*, the 2.0L engine (4G63)*, the turbocharged 2.0L (4G63T), as well as the awesome turbocharged, All Wheel Drive model. Sales rose drastically.
The naturally aspirated 2.0(4G63) and 1.8(4G37) liter engines were built by Mitsubishi. At the time of its production, the Laser, Eclipse, and Talon were some of the fastest four cylinders on the planet. Aftermarket parts for the trio began to make their appearance, which heavily increased the performance of the cars -- giving Mustangs, Camaros, and even Corvettes a run for their money. Manufacturing increased yearly. The demand for the cars was so great production could hardly keep up. Originally, the AWD Talon was to be the only Eagle car produced. Later, a front wheel drive model was added.
In 1991, Chrysler sold its equity of the plant in Normal, IL to Mitsubishi. This may, or may not account for the slight redesign of the cars for the 1992 year. The pop up head lights were removed and replaced with a more ergonomic design. The body of the car received some slight modifications. 1992 also marked the appearance of the AWD Plymouth Laser.
Side Panels were smoothed out to give the car a more aerodynamic look and feel. The interior received subtle modifications as well. New styling options were available, with new colors for the cloth surfaces. Mechanical changes were subtle as well. In May of 1992, the six bolt motor was replaced with a seven bolt design. The engine rods were a bit smaller than those of the pre May of 92 cars. The three bolt rear end was swapped for a stronger four bolt."Don't fix it if it ain't broke, right?"
By 1993, the public was well aware of the DSM's presence. As C. Van Tune of Car Craft Magazine wrote:**
"As a non-turbocharged front-driver, the Diamond Star is nice. As a turbocharged front-driver, it's fast. As a turbocharged all-wheel-driver, it's spectacular. No two-wheel-drive vehicle on earth can launch as hard as an AWD of comparable power, and the Diamond Star is among the hardest launching AWD vehicles around. Rev it to seven grand, drop the clutch, and all four wheels claw the pavement with a violence usually reserved for Wes Craven movies. In an across-the-intersection face-off, only a superbike, Syclone, or seriously-built street machine stands a chance against an AWD Diamond Star. The Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX tested this time wasn't the quickest in quarter-mile, but it was quicker than any other car - including the Corvette, RX7, and 300ZX - to 30 mph. And it'll achieve a 142mph terminal velocity that will let you hunt down, and pass Mustang Cobras."
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