The Mitsubishi Mirage V Asti (CJO) was a sporty coupe produced by Mitsubishi Motors between 1996 and 2002. Primarily aimed at the European market, the Asti represented a more stylish and performance-oriented iteration of the fifth-generation Mirage, a compact car that had been a mainstay of Mitsubishi’s lineup for decades. While not officially sold in the United States, the Mirage V Asti offered a compelling package of performance, handling, and design, appealing to buyers seeking an affordable and engaging driving experience. It occupied a niche between mainstream compacts and more expensive sports coupes.
Mitsubishi Mirage V Asti (CJO): A European Sport Coupe
The Mirage V Asti, designated internally as the CJO, was a significant departure from the more utilitarian versions of the fifth-generation Mirage. It featured a more aggressive front fascia, sculpted side skirts, and a rear spoiler, giving it a distinctly sporty appearance. The “Asti” designation itself is believed to be a reference to the Italian town of Asti, known for its wine production, hinting at a sophisticated and enjoyable driving experience. The car was positioned as a competitor to models like the Peugeot 306 Coupe and the Renault Megane Coupe.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Mirage V Asti was a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine, equipped with a 16-valve dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and multi-port fuel injection. This engine produced 175 horsepower at 7500 rpm and 167 Nm (123.17 lb.-ft.) of torque at 7000 rpm. The engine’s output translated to a power-to-weight ratio of 6.2 kg/Hp and 160.6 Hp/tonne, providing brisk acceleration and a lively driving experience. Power per liter was an impressive 109.6 Hp/l. The engine was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth and convenient gear changes. The front-wheel-drive configuration and relatively lightweight construction (1090 kg or 2403.04 lbs.) contributed to the car’s agile handling characteristics. The weight-to-torque ratio of 6.5 kg/Nm and 153.2 Nm/tonne further enhanced its responsiveness.
Design & Features
The Mirage V Asti was a two-door coupe with seating for five passengers, although rear seat space was somewhat limited. Its body style was a key differentiator from the standard Mirage, offering a more dynamic and visually appealing profile. The interior featured a driver-focused cockpit with supportive seats and a well-equipped dashboard. Standard features included power steering (hydraulic), anti-lock braking system (ABS), and ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels, with disc brakes on the rear. The car’s suspension utilized coil springs on both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable yet controlled ride. The design prioritized aesthetics and a sporty feel, making it a desirable option for those seeking a more individualistic vehicle. Trunk space was a practical 420 liters (14.83 cu. ft.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Mirage |
| Generation | Mirage V Asti (CJO) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 i 16V (175 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 175 Hp @ 7500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 109.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 167 Nm @ 7000 rpm / 123.17 lb.-ft. @ 7000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1597 cm3 / 97.45 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm / 3.19 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 77.5 mm / 3.05 in. |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1090 kg / 2403.04 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 420 l / 14.83 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l / 13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal |
| Length | 4230 mm / 166.54 in. |
| Width | 1690 mm / 66.54 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 | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Mitsubishi Mirage V Asti, while not a high-volume seller, remains a fondly remembered model among enthusiasts. It offered a compelling blend of style, performance, and affordability, making it a desirable alternative to more mainstream offerings in the European coupe market. Its relatively lightweight construction and responsive engine provided an engaging driving experience, cementing its place as a noteworthy vehicle in Mitsubishi’s history.
