Used 2000 Mitsubishi Galant DE for Sale Nationwide

Anonymous

Reviewed a 2000 Mitsubishi DE on Jul 2, 2011

This car has been in my family for years, and there have been very few problems or issues with the car. The car has a 2.4L engine, with a four speed automatic transmission, which is a pretty good setup, on a car half this size. Slightly under powered, the car's computer revs the heck out of the engine when you press the accelerator, but you get less acceleration than the engine sound leads you to believe. The main issue is the automatic transmission, because it is too smooth to transfer power very well, and tends to use the torque converter often rather than staying locked up. This also affects fuel economy, which is not too good--or bad-- in this car. The handling of a Galant is much like driving a go-cart, if you don't try to control it, you will slide or otherwise lose control. The suspension is comfort-biased, and rather soft for a car of this size. I would have liked to see a firmer base for this car, perhaps some stiffer springs? The steering is well balanced, and on center at most speeds, over 85-100 mph it gets a little too loose feeling in my opinion. High speeds in this car are not an issue, with a electronically limited speed of 137 mph, the Galant can really fly down roads if you want it to (and have patience to). Build quality is great, especially for a car assembled in a factory that also makes Chryslers. There is a lot of supple texturing on the plastics, with a partially vinyl-padded dashboard. This all adds a classy touch to the Galant, The interior fabrics are great, and long lasting. I haven't had issues with staining or fading, either. There are not very many squeaks, but plenty of rattles and vibrating noises, due to the fact that many of the plastic interior components are layered together and screwed into metal mounts in the dashboard and body. The appearance of the Galant is easily described as European inspired, the rear taillights are reminiscent of some past BMW models, and the angular body panels are not typically seen on other Japanese or American cars. Exterior quality is good, the seams are small and fit of trim is very secure. The quality of most emblems and trim is well above average, as none of the black plastic parts have faded over 11 years of ownership in sun drenched states. Watch out for paint fading, though, because trunk lids, roofs and hoods tend to suffer paint degradation and flaking, as you might see on other Galants. The cost of ownership for a Galant is relatively low, there's nothing to repair on a Galant that is overly expensive. Timing belt services run around $400, and transaxle flushes around $175. As long as you follow the maintenance schedule, you shouldn't have any issues. The Mitsubishi Galant is a relatively simple, fun to drive car that has been, and will still be a satisfactory ownership experience to me. The build quality may leave something to ask for, but it still has the amazing Mitsubishi rally blood in it's design, which makes up for the cars' few shortcomings. Not a Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, but trailing right behind 'em!