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Mitsubishi Colt 600

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The Mitsubishi Colt 600: A Comprehensive Guide

The Mitsubishi Colt 600, produced from 1962 to 1965, represents Mitsubishi's initial foray into the passenger car market after World War II. It was a small, rear-engined economy car designed to meet the growing demand for affordable transportation in Japan. While short-lived, the Colt 600 laid the groundwork for future Mitsubishi vehicles and showcased the company's burgeoning engineering capabilities. It falls into the Kei car and subcompact class, depending on the regulations of the time and the market.

Generations

First Generation (1962-1965)

  • Years: 1962-1965
  • Key Changes: This generation represents the entirety of the Colt 600's production run. There were minor refinements during its production, but no major redesigns.
  • Notable Features:
    • Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration.
    • Air-cooled 594cc two-stroke engine.
    • Four-door sedan body style (unusual for such a small car at the time).
    • Independent suspension on all four wheels.

Reliability & Common Issues

Given the age of the Mitsubishi Colt 600, finding one in good working order will be challenging. Most survivors will require extensive restoration. Here's a breakdown of potential mechanical issues:

Engine (594cc Two-Stroke)

  • Two-Stroke Specifics: Two-stroke engines require oil to be mixed with the fuel for lubrication. Ensuring the correct oil-to-fuel ratio is critical. Incorrect ratios can lead to seized engines (too little oil) or excessive smoke and fouling of spark plugs (too much oil).
  • Overheating: The air-cooled design can be prone to overheating, especially in hot climates or during prolonged idling. Check for signs of previous overheating, such as warped cylinder heads or damaged cooling fins.
  • Carburetion: Two-stroke engines are sensitive to carburetor tuning. Dirty or improperly adjusted carburetors can lead to poor performance, rough idling, and excessive fuel consumption. Rebuilding or replacing the carburetor might be necessary.
  • Oil Pump: If equipped with an automatic oil injection system (rather than manual mixing), the oil pump must be in perfect working order to prevent engine damage.

Transmission

  • Manual Transmission: Check for smooth shifting between gears. Listen for grinding noises, which could indicate worn synchronizers.
  • Clutch: The clutch should engage smoothly without slipping or chattering.

Suspension & Brakes

  • Suspension: The independent suspension is relatively sophisticated for a car of this era, but age will have taken its toll. Look for worn bushings, leaking shocks, and sagging springs. Replacement parts may be difficult to find.
  • Brakes: The brake system is basic and likely uses drum brakes on all four wheels. Check for leaks in the brake lines, worn brake shoes, and a spongy brake pedal feel. Brake system restoration is crucial for safe operation.

Body & Chassis

  • Rust: Rust is a major concern for any car of this age, particularly in areas with harsh winters. Thoroughly inspect the body, chassis, and floor pans for rust damage. Pay close attention to areas prone to trapping moisture, such as wheel wells, rocker panels, and around window seals.
  • Originality: Many Colt 600s have been modified or restored over the years. Assess the originality of the car and whether any modifications detract from its value or historical significance.

Electrical System

  • Wiring: The electrical wiring is likely to be brittle and prone to corrosion. Check for frayed wires, cracked insulation, and corroded connectors.
  • Charging System: Inspect the generator or alternator and the battery. Ensure they are functioning properly.

Driving Experience

The Mitsubishi Colt 600 offers a unique driving experience, characterized by its small size, rear-engine configuration, and vintage charm. Keep in mind that expectations should be tempered by the car's age and original design.

Pros:

  • Compact Size: The Colt 600 is incredibly maneuverable and easy to park in tight spaces.
  • Unique Driving Feel: The rear-engine layout provides a distinctive driving experience, with the engine noise emanating from the rear of the car.
  • Historical Significance: Owning a Colt 600 provides a tangible connection to Mitsubishi's automotive heritage.
  • Fuel Efficiency: Two-stroke engines aren't known for their efficiency, but in a small car like the Colt 600, it was reasonable for the time.

Cons:

  • Limited Performance: The 594cc engine provides modest performance, suitable for city driving but not ideal for highway speeds.
  • Noise: Two-stroke engines are generally noisier than four-stroke engines.
  • Availability of Parts: Finding replacement parts for a Colt 600 can be extremely challenging, requiring specialized knowledge and access to vintage car resources.
  • Safety: Safety standards were far less stringent in the 1960s. The Colt 600 lacks modern safety features such as airbags and ABS.
  • Smoke: Two-stroke engines burn oil, which produces smoke, especially noticeable during cold starts and acceleration.

Buying Advice

Purchasing a Mitsubishi Colt 600 requires careful consideration and a realistic understanding of the challenges involved in owning a vintage car.

What Years to Look For:

  • There aren't significantly better or worse years within the 1962-1965 production run. The most important factor is the overall condition of the car, regardless of the year.

What to Avoid:

  • Extensive Rust: Avoid cars with significant rust damage, as restoration can be costly and time-consuming.
  • Missing Parts: Finding replacement parts can be extremely difficult. Avoid cars with missing or damaged components, especially rare or model-specific parts.
  • Poorly Executed Restorations: Be wary of cars that have been poorly restored, as this can mask underlying problems and lead to further issues down the road.
  • Unrealistic Expectations: Understand that the Colt 600 is an old car and requires ongoing maintenance and care. Do not expect modern levels of reliability or performance.

Key Considerations:

  • Budget: Factor in the cost of the car itself, as well as potential restoration costs, parts, and ongoing maintenance.
  • Expert Inspection: Have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic with experience working on vintage Japanese cars.
  • Documentation: Obtain as much documentation as possible, including original owner's manuals, service records, and restoration details.
  • Community: Connect with other Colt 600 enthusiasts for advice, support, and access to parts.

The Mitsubishi Colt 600 is a rare and fascinating piece of automotive history. While owning one presents significant challenges, the reward of preserving and enjoying this vintage car can be immense for the right enthusiast.

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