The Mitsubishi Colt VI (Z30) 1.1 i 12V CZ3, produced from 2005 to 2008, represented the entry point into the sixth generation of Mitsubishi’s Colt hatchback. This variant, powered by a modest 1.1-liter engine producing 75 horsepower, was primarily aimed at the European market as an affordable and economical city car. It occupied the base trim level within the Z30 range, sitting below the 1.3-liter and 1.5-liter models, and significantly below the performance-oriented versions. The Z30 Colt was a key model for Mitsubishi in Europe, designed to compete with rivals like the Renault Clio, Peugeot 206, and Ford Fiesta.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Colt |
| Generation | Colt VI (Z30) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.1 i 12 V CZ3 (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | August, 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp, 82.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.1 kg/Nm, 110.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 100 Nm @ 3500 rpm (73.76 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 134.910 |
| Engine displacement | 1124 cm3 (68.59 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.8 mm (3.34 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 905 kg (1995.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs.) |
| Max load | 515 kg (1135.38 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 155 l (5.47 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 760 l (26.84 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Length | 3810 mm (150 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm (98.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Colt 1.1 i CZ3 is the Mitsubishi M 134.910 engine, a 1.1-liter (1124 cc) inline-three cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, operating with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s 10.5:1 compression ratio contributes to its modest power output of 75 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 100 Nm (73.76 lb-ft) of torque at 3500 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The transmission is a standard five-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its simplicity and contribution to fuel efficiency. While an automatic transmission was offered on other Colt variants, it wasn’t available with the base 1.1-liter engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.1-liter Colt is characterized by its unhurried acceleration. The 0-60 mph time of around 12.3 seconds and a top speed of 102.53 mph reflect its focus on economy rather than performance. The five-speed manual transmission allows drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but requires frequent shifting for overtaking or climbing hills. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, resulting in a relatively long first gear and closely spaced higher gears. Compared to the 1.3 and 1.5-liter versions, the 1.1 feels noticeably slower, but provides a more forgiving and economical driving experience, particularly in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.1 i CZ3 trim level was the entry-level specification for the Colt VI. Standard equipment typically included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. Interior appointments were basic, with cloth upholstery and a functional, if somewhat spartan, dashboard layout. Optional extras included air conditioning, alloy wheels, and a CD player. The interior plastics were durable but not particularly luxurious, reflecting the car’s budget-oriented positioning. Safety features were limited to the mandatory equipment of the time, including driver and passenger airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The Colt 1.1 i CZ3 utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with a simple suspension setup. The front suspension consists of MacPherson strut coil springs, while the rear employs a torsion beam axle. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, although it’s not particularly sporty. The braking system features ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. The ABS system enhances braking performance and stability, particularly on slippery surfaces. The relatively light weight of the 1.1-liter model (905 kg / 1995.18 lbs) helps to compensate for the modest braking power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mitsubishi Colt 1.1 i CZ3 was generally well-received as an affordable and reliable city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but noted its lack of performance and basic interior. Compared to the higher-spec Colt variants, the 1.1 offered significantly less power and refinement. However, it was considerably cheaper to purchase and insure, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers and those on a tight budget. Fuel economy figures of around 42.8 US mpg combined were competitive for its class. Reliability was generally good, with the 1.1-liter engine proving to be durable and relatively trouble-free.
Legacy
The Mitsubishi Colt VI 1.1 i CZ3 remains a relatively common sight on European roads today, testament to its durability and affordability. While not a particularly sought-after model, it represents a practical and economical choice for those seeking a reliable used car. The 1.1-liter engine, while lacking in performance, is known for its longevity and ease of maintenance. Parts availability is generally good, and repair costs are relatively low. The Colt 1.1 i CZ3 serves as a reminder of a time when affordable and efficient transportation was prioritized over outright performance and luxury.
