At its introduction in late 1977 the
Sigma was the same car as that was made and sold in
Japan, but attention to customer feedback enabled Mitsubishi
to tailor the Sigma for local conditions. Inside and
out, the range underwent significant improvement over
the years.
But it was the 4th generation model released
in 1980 that represented the most significant improvements
for Australian conditions – it even taking out
the Car of the Year award in New Zealand.
The basic
model was the 1.6-litre Sigma, then the GL and SE which
came fitted with a 2.0 litre Astron and the optional
2.6 litre. There was also a five-speed manual version
of the 2.6 litre available. Outside there was a new
black plastic grille, and Falcon-style bumpers, Scorpion-style
dual quartz halogen rectangular headlights, and new
tail lights provided a more aggressive and upmarket
look.
Changes to the sheet metal gave the car a 'flat-nose'
look. Inside, square dials replaced the previous models
round ones, and the dashboards were colour-coded. The
top of the line SE now also featured a digital clock,
stereo tape deck, and a fuel-pacer light on the bonnet
as standard.
One of the most common complaints about the
earlier Sigmas was directed at the handling and steering
response. A major rebuild of the steering box has reduced
by 35 per cent the amount of steering-wheel movement
required for any manoeuvre. Sloppiness had finally
been eradicated, but unfortunately so was any real
feel for the road; however, it is an acceptable compromise.
The front and rear springs were variable rate; that
is, in driver only situations the springs were softer
than on previous models while under load the spring
rate increased and stiffened up the ride. This also
helped reduce front-end dive under heavy braking.
A
substantial increase in pad area and disc diameter
has likewise improved the braking; and economy was
further enhanced by changed differential ratios and
a taller wheel-tyre combination.
Some of the changes could
be questioned on grounds of taste, such as the square
dials or the thin steering wheel, but there was indeed
little argument from the consumers. Ultimately it was
the 4th generation Sigma that was thoroughly sorted for
Australian conditions, and this made it a much better
car than its predecessors.
