The Mitsubishi Mirage V (CJO), produced between 1995 and 2002, represents a significant iteration in Mitsubishi’s long-running Mirage line. This generation, designated the CJO, was primarily aimed at the European and Asian markets, offering an affordable and practical compact sedan. While not officially sold in the United States, the Mirage V provides a compelling example of the efficient and reliable small cars popular globally during the late 1990s and early 2000s. It occupied the subcompact sedan segment, competing with vehicles like the Peugeot 206, Renault Clio, and other similarly sized offerings.
Mitsubishi Mirage V (CJO): A Detailed Overview
The Mirage V (CJO) was designed to provide economical transportation with a focus on fuel efficiency and ease of maintenance. It served as a crucial model for Mitsubishi in markets where smaller, more affordable vehicles were in high demand. The CJO generation represented a refinement of the earlier Mirage models, incorporating updated styling and improved mechanical components. It was positioned as a sensible choice for first-time car buyers, small families, and those seeking a reliable city car.
Engine & Performance
Powering the Mitsubishi Mirage V (CJO) 1.3 i 12V is a 1.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 88 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 108 Nm (79.66 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3000 rpm. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving conditions. The power-to-weight ratio of 11 kg/Hp (90.7 Hp/tonne) and torque-to-weight ratio of 9 kg/Nm (111.3 Nm/tonne) contribute to a reasonably responsive driving experience. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain. The 1298 cm3 (79.21 cu. in.) displacement and 3 valves per cylinder contribute to a balance between efficiency and performance. The Mirage V achieves a maximum speed of 165 km/h (102.53 mph). The engine is coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels.
Design & Features
The Mitsubishi Mirage V (CJO) is a four-door sedan with a relatively conservative and functional design. Its body style reflects the design trends of the mid-1990s, prioritizing practicality over flamboyant aesthetics. The vehicle comfortably seats five passengers and offers a trunk capacity of 420 liters (14.83 cu. ft.). The interior is designed with simplicity and durability in mind, featuring basic instrumentation and comfortable seating. Safety features for the time included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which was becoming increasingly common on vehicles in this segment. The steering system utilizes a hydraulic power steering rack and pinion for ease of maneuverability. The vehicle rides on 155/80 R13 S tires, providing a balance between ride comfort and road grip. The Mirage V’s dimensions – 4290 mm (168.9 in.) in length, 1690 mm (66.54 in.) in width, and 1395 mm (54.92 in.) in height – make it well-suited for navigating urban environments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Mirage |
| Generation | Mirage V (CJO) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 i 12V (88 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1995 |
| End of production | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 90.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9 kg/Nm, 111.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 88 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 108 Nm @ 3000 rpm (79.66 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1298 cm3 (79.21 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Kerb Weight | 970 kg (2138.48 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 420 l (14.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4290 mm (168.9 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1395 mm (54.92 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm (98.43 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 155/80 R13 S |
The Mitsubishi Mirage V (CJO) 1.3 i 12V, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, represents a solid and dependable option in the subcompact sedan category. Its focus on affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality made it a popular choice in its target markets. It stands as a testament to Mitsubishi’s commitment to providing accessible transportation solutions during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
