The Mitsuoka Rock Star is a two-seat roadster manufactured by the Japanese automaker Mitsuoka Motor Co., Ltd. Introduced in 2018, the Rock Star is notable for its retro styling heavily inspired by the first-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA), but with a distinctly American aesthetic reminiscent of 1950s and 60s American sports cars. Unlike many Japanese Kei cars or niche vehicles, the Rock Star is built on a modified MX-5 platform, making it a fully homologated vehicle rather than a kit car. It is primarily marketed within Japan, catering to a desire for classic American styling combined with modern Japanese reliability and engineering. The vehicle is powered by a 1.5-liter SKYACTIV-G engine, offering a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
Mitsuoka Rock Star: A Retro Revival
The Mitsuoka Rock Star occupies a unique niche in the automotive market. It doesn’t directly compete with mainstream roadsters like the Mazda MX-5, as it’s positioned as a more exclusive, style-focused vehicle. Mitsuoka, known for its coachbuilding and limited-production vehicles, aims to provide a nostalgic experience for drivers who appreciate classic American car design. The Rock Star is not officially sold in the United States, but examples are occasionally imported by enthusiasts. Its appeal lies in its distinctive appearance and the blend of modern mechanicals with vintage aesthetics. The vehicle is a testament to Mitsuoka’s ability to cater to specific tastes and create cars that stand out from the crowd.
Engine & Performance
The Mitsuoka Rock Star is powered by a 1.5-liter SKYACTIV-G inline four-cylinder engine, a powerplant also found in the Mazda MX-5. This engine produces 132 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 152 Nm (112.11 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4500 rpm. The SKYACTIV technology focuses on improving combustion efficiency, resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of 122.2 Hp/tonne and a torque-to-weight ratio of 140.7 Nm/tonne. The engine features direct injection, a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT), and a high compression ratio of 13:1. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission, providing a traditional and engaging driving experience. The naturally aspirated engine provides a linear power delivery, making it enjoyable for both spirited driving and everyday use. The weight-to-power ratio of 8.2 kg/Hp contributes to a responsive feel.
Design & Features
The exterior design of the Mitsuoka Rock Star is its defining characteristic. It deliberately evokes the styling of 1950s and 60s American roadsters, with prominent chrome accents, a large grille, circular headlights, and a long hood. The body is constructed on a modified Mazda MX-5 chassis, but almost every exterior panel is unique to the Rock Star. The interior, while based on the MX-5, receives unique trim and detailing to complement the exterior’s retro theme. The vehicle is a two-seater roadster with two doors, prioritizing the driving experience over practicality. Safety features include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), essential for modern road safety. The steering system utilizes an electric power steering rack and pinion for precise control. The vehicle rides on 195/50 R16 84V tires mounted on 6.5J x 16 inch wheel rims. The Rock Star’s design is a deliberate departure from contemporary automotive aesthetics, appealing to those who appreciate classic American car culture.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsuoka |
| Model | Rock Star |
| Generation | Rock Star |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 SKYACTIV-G (132 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Roadster |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp, 122.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm, 140.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 132 Hp @ 7000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 88.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 152 Nm @ 4500 rpm / 112.11 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm |
| Engine displacement | 1496 cm3 / 91.29 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm / 2.93 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm / 3.38 in. |
| Compression ratio | 13:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l / 4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt |
| Coolant | 5.6 l / 5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1080-1120 kg / 2380.99 – 2469.18 lbs. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l / 10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal |
| Length | 4345 mm / 171.06 in. |
| Width | 1770 mm / 69.69 in. |
| Height | 1235 mm / 48.62 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2310 mm / 90.94 in. |
| Front track | 1495 mm / 58.86 in. |
| Rear track | 1505 mm / 59.25 in. |
| Front overhang | 954 mm / 37.56 in. |
| Rear overhang | 1081 mm / 42.56 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm / 5.51 in. |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.4 m / 30.84 ft. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/50 R16 84V |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
The Mitsuoka Rock Star represents a unique approach to automotive design, blending retro aesthetics with modern engineering. While not widely available outside of Japan, it has garnered a dedicated following among enthusiasts who appreciate its distinctive style and the craftsmanship of Mitsuoka Motor Co., Ltd.
