Regarding automotive performance, few platforms have grabbed the hearts of enthusiasts as have the Diamond Star Motors (DSM) vehicles, particularly the 1G and 2G models. At DarkLight Fabrication, we comprehend the enthusiasm that pushes DSM owners to search for custom solutions for their turbo exhaust manifolds, downpipes, and exhaust systems. In this blog post, we will dive into the history of the DSM 1G and 2G, and we will cover why these platforms are still such a popular choice among car enthusiasts today.
The Birth of the DSM: A Brief History
Mitsubishi Motors and the Chrysler Corporation collaborated to produce the DSM, a series of cars that were sold as sport compacts during the 1990s. From 1989 to 1999, the DSM shared a platform with three different cars: the Mitsubishi Eclipse, the Eagle Talon, and the Plymouth Laser. Although these cars differed in some styling details and in the number of cylinders in their engines, they were nearly identical under the skin. All three came standard with a turbocharged engine that displaced 2.0 L (122 cu in).
The first-generation Diamond Star Motors (DSM) vehicles, released in 1990, were revolutionary for their time. They offered a combination of lightweight design, all-wheel-drive (AWD) options, and turbocharged power. I was particularly enamored with the AWD models—the Eclipse GSX in particular—for their impressive traction and handling.
Introduced in 1995, the second generation—2G—had even more updated styling and better performance features. The models comprising 2G, which included the Mitsubishi Eclipse, as well as the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser, continued to make use of the 4G63 engine. This time, however, the folks at Mitsubishi and Chrysler turned the wick up on that engine, and it made even more power and torque than before. The 2G Eclipse GSX and GST models did what the 1G models had done: they became icons of the performance generation.
Why DSMs are Sought After by Enthusiasts
1. Performance Potential
Car enthusiasts cherish the DSM platform primarily for its one overarching attribute—"incredible performance potential," the Federal Register states. The reason is simple: It pairs a robust turbocharged engine with a lightweight chassis. That combination makes it easy for the first two generations of these cars to reach high power levels with just a handful of basic modifications; the platforms in question are the 1G and 2G Eclipse. At DarkLight Fabrication, we create custom turbo exhaust manifolds and downpipes for those chassis to help unleash their performance.
2. Tuning Flexibility
The DSM platform is celebrated for its tuning adaptability. With a vast assortment of aftermarket components accessible, aficionados can readily tweak their rides to fit their precise specifications. From beefed-up turbochargers to one-off exhausts, the make-it-better options are nearly limitless. At DarkLight Fabrication, we partner with DSM owners to conceive and execute around the vehicle solutions that make them scream undying praises for our rig's performance.
3. Community and Support
The DSM community is one of the most fervently loyal and constructive car communities there is. Car enthusiasts in this niche share their expertise on online forums and social media with incoming community members. This allows new members to catch up, get involved, and take part in our cars' voices, sounds, and shadows as we drive them day, night, and everywhere in between. This is the Digital Shadows Mitsubishi community.
4. Classic Appeal
The appeal that the 1G and 2G DSMs have with car enthusiasts is almost a classic one. Many owners enjoy the trip down memory lane that the nostalgic design provides when they get behind the wheel. And the raw driving experience that these cars deliver certainly doesn't hurt their desirability. They occupy a unique place in automotive history. In no small part because of the above, the demand for these models seems to be climbing, too.
Custom Solutions at DarkLight Fabrication
DarkLight Fabrication comprehends the distinctive requirements of DSM owners. Our cohort of adept fabricators concentrates on rendering specialized exhaust solutions that are personalized to each automotive specification. If turbo exhaust manifold, downpipe, or complete custom exhaust system is on your to-do list, you are better positioned to see that project through to its upping-the-ante finish with products from DarkLight.
The automotive performance industry is where we are and where we want to be. Our dedication to quality and customer satisfaction is what sets us apart from our competitors. We take our craftsmanship very seriously, making sure that every piece we create meets our very high standards. If you order from us, you can rest assured that your DSM will not only perform at its very best but also look good doing it.
Conclusion
The 1st and 2nd generation DSM platforms have made quite an impression in the automotive world. With their performance potential, tuning versatility, and straightforward charm, they have garnered a dedicated following of enthusiasts. Here at DarkLight Fabrication, we exist to render that following all the more justified by providing custom fabrication solutions that help you, the DSM owner, realize the oft-unforeseen possibilities held by your car. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or are just now venturing into the sometimes bizarre, always interesting world of the DSM, we invite you to explore those possibilities with us.