2018 Mitsuoka Himiko Concept 1.5 (131 Hp)

The Mitsuoka Himiko Concept 1.5 is a unique and relatively obscure roadster produced by Mitsuoka Motors, a Japanese manufacturer known for its small-volume, often retro-styled vehicles. Introduced in 2018, the Himiko is not designed for mass-market appeal but rather as a niche offering, primarily targeted towards the Japanese domestic market. It represents Mitsuoka’s continued dedication to crafting distinctive automobiles that often draw inspiration from classic British roadsters, blending traditional aesthetics with modern mechanical components. The Himiko Concept 1.5 distinguishes itself with its open-top configuration and a focus on providing a classic roadster experience in a contemporary package.

Mitsuoka Himiko Concept 1.5: A Modern Retro Roadster

The Mitsuoka Himiko Concept 1.5 occupies a unique space in the automotive landscape. It isn’t directly comparable to mainstream roadsters due to its limited production and specialized market. Instead, it caters to enthusiasts seeking a vehicle that evokes the spirit of classic British sports cars, particularly those from the 1950s and 60s, while benefiting from modern reliability and technology. Mitsuoka’s approach is to hand-build these vehicles, offering a level of customization and exclusivity rarely found in larger-scale production models. The Himiko is a testament to the enduring appeal of the classic roadster formula, reimagined for the 21st century.

Engine & Performance

Powering the Mitsuoka Himiko Concept 1.5 is a 1.5-liter, naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder engine, designated the SKYACTIV-G. This engine, sourced from Mazda, produces 131 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 150 Nm (110.63 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4800 rpm. The engine features direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT), contributing to its efficiency and responsiveness. The power-to-weight ratio is a respectable 8.6 kg/Hp, or 115.9 Hp/tonne, while the torque-to-weight ratio stands at 7.5 kg/Nm, or 132.7 Nm/tonne. The engine’s displacement is 1496 cm3 (91.29 cu. in.), and it boasts a high compression ratio of 13:1. A six-speed manual transmission is the sole gearbox option, providing drivers with a direct and engaging driving experience. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to predictable handling characteristics.

Design & Features

The Mitsuoka Himiko Concept 1.5 is a two-door, two-seat cabriolet (roadster) characterized by its distinctly retro aesthetic. The exterior design draws heavily from classic British roadsters, with flowing lines, a long hood, and a compact cabin. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4580 mm (180.31 in.) in length, 1740 mm (68.5 in.) in width, and 1235 mm (48.62 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2910 mm (114.57 in.). The kerb weight ranges from 1130 to 1180 kg (2491.22 – 2601.45 lbs.). While the Himiko prioritizes style and driving enjoyment, it incorporates modern safety features such as an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The suspension system consists of a double wishbone setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, designed to provide a comfortable yet engaging ride. Steering is handled by a rack and pinion system with electric power assistance. The interior, while not lavishly equipped, is designed to complement the exterior’s classic theme, offering a simple and driver-focused environment.

Technical Specifications