The Mitsubishi Colt V (CJO) 1.3 i 16V, produced between 2000 and 2003, represented an entry-level offering within the fifth generation of the Mitsubishi Colt. Positioned as a small, economical hatchback, it was primarily aimed at the European market, where fuel efficiency and affordability were key purchasing considerations. This variant, powered by the 4G13 engine and typically paired with a five-speed manual transmission, served as a gateway into the Colt range, offering basic transportation with Mitsubishi’s reputation for reliability. While an automatic transmission was available in some markets, the 1.3L engine was often considered underpowered when coupled with the automatic, making the manual version more common.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Colt |
| Generation | Colt V (CJO) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 i 16V (82 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.2 l/100 km (25.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 82 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 120 Nm @ 4000 rpm (88.51 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 4G13 |
| Engine displacement | 1299 cm3 (79.27 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.3 l (3.49 US qt | 2.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 945 kg (2083.37 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1445 kg (3185.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 240 l (8.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 830 l (29.31 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 3880 mm (152.76 in.) |
| Width | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Height | 1365 mm (53.74 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2415 mm (95.08 in.) |
| Front track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 175/70 R13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Colt V 1.3 i 16V is the 4G13 engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating 16 valves – four per cylinder. The 4G13 engine employed multi-point fuel injection, a common technology at the time, to deliver fuel directly into the intake ports. This system, while not as sophisticated as direct injection, provided a good balance of efficiency and performance for its intended market segment. The engine’s relatively simple design contributed to its reliability and ease of maintenance. The five-speed manual transmission was the most common pairing, offering a reasonable spread of gears for both city and highway driving. The gear ratios were tuned for economy rather than outright acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3L engine, producing 82 horsepower, delivered modest performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11.9 seconds, and top speed was limited to 105.63 mph. The car felt best suited to urban environments and slower country roads. The manual transmission allowed drivers to make the most of the available power, but it wasn’t a particularly sporty experience. Compared to the higher-output versions of the Colt V, such as those equipped with larger engines, the 1.3 i 16V felt noticeably slower. However, it offered a lighter, more nimble feel, particularly in city traffic. The gear ratios were relatively tall, prioritizing fuel economy over rapid acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 i 16V typically represented the base trim level for the Colt V. Standard equipment generally included power steering, central locking, and basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat spartan, design. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric windows, and upgraded audio systems. The focus was on providing essential features at an affordable price point. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, and more sophisticated audio systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Colt V 1.3 i 16V utilized a relatively simple chassis design. Front suspension consisted of coil springs, while the rear suspension also employed coil springs. Front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. However, the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this class of vehicle. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, providing a reasonably smooth ride on most road surfaces. Stabilizer bars were present, but were relatively thin compared to those found on higher-performance models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mitsubishi Colt V 1.3 i 16V was generally well-received as an affordable and reliable city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and ease of driving, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to other small hatchbacks of the time, such as the Ford Fiesta or Volkswagen Polo, the Colt offered a competitive price point and a reputation for durability. The 1.3L engine’s fuel economy was a key selling point, particularly in Europe, where fuel prices were relatively high. However, the automatic transmission version was often criticized for being sluggish and further diminishing the car’s already limited acceleration.
Legacy
The Mitsubishi Colt V 1.3 i 16V, while not a particularly groundbreaking vehicle, proved to be a reliable and economical choice for many drivers. The 4G13 engine is known for its durability, and well-maintained examples can still be found on the road today. In the used car market, these Colts are often sought after by those looking for an affordable and dependable runabout. Parts availability is generally good, and maintenance costs are relatively low. While it may not offer the performance or features of more modern vehicles, the Colt V 1.3 i 16V remains a testament to Mitsubishi’s commitment to building practical and reliable cars.
