The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab, a small but mighty kei car, holds a special place in the history of Japanese automotive engineering. Released in 1999, it was a testament to Mitsubishi’s commitment to producing practical and efficient vehicles, particularly for the demanding Japanese market.
The Minicab’s design, performance, and features were meticulously tailored to meet the needs of urban dwellers and small business owners, making it a popular choice for its time.
The Minicab’s legacy extends beyond its initial popularity. It played a pivotal role in shaping the kei car segment, paving the way for future generations of compact and fuel-efficient vehicles. Its design, with its boxy exterior and spacious interior, influenced the aesthetic and functionality of many subsequent models.
While the 1999 Minicab may no longer be in production, its impact on the automotive landscape remains undeniable.
Introduction
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab was a compact commercial vehicle that played a significant role in the Japanese market. Released in 1999, it was a popular choice for businesses and individuals needing a reliable and affordable workhorse. The Minicab was known for its versatility, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for a variety of tasks, including deliveries, transportation, and construction.
Historical Context and Significance
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab marked a significant milestone in the evolution of the Minicab series, which debuted in 1966. The 1999 model was part of a generation known for its updated design and improved performance. In Japan, the Minicab, along with other kei-cars, enjoyed substantial tax advantages and preferential parking regulations, making them highly popular.
This popularity, coupled with their versatility, propelled the Minicab to become a staple in the Japanese commercial vehicle market.
Key Features and Specifications
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab was available in various configurations, including van, truck, and pickup truck variants. It was powered by a 660 cc three-cylinder petrol engine, which offered fuel efficiency and reliable performance. The engine was paired with a five-speed manual transmission, offering a balance of fuel economy and driving experience.
Here are some key features and specifications:
- Engine:660 cc three-cylinder petrol engine
- Transmission:5-speed manual
- Payload:Varied depending on the configuration
- Dimensions:Compact size for easy maneuverability in tight spaces
- Fuel Efficiency:Known for its fuel economy, especially in urban environments
Design and Styling
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab was a practical and functional kei truck designed for urban environments. Its design reflected the need for maneuverability, efficiency, and affordability.
Exterior Design
The Minicab’s exterior design was characterized by its compact size, boxy shape, and simple lines. It featured a short wheelbase, a high roofline, and a flatbed cargo area. The front fascia featured a large grille with the Mitsubishi logo prominently displayed, flanked by rectangular headlights.
The side profile showcased straight lines and minimal ornamentation, highlighting its utilitarian purpose. The rear end featured a simple tailgate with vertical taillights. The Minicab’s design aimed to maximize cargo space within the kei car regulations. This approach was common among minicabs of the era, with models like the Daihatsu Hijet, Suzuki Carry, and Honda Acty sharing similar design characteristics.
The boxy shape facilitated easy loading and unloading of cargo, while the high roofline provided ample headroom for passengers.
Interior Layout and Features
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab’s interior was designed with practicality in mind. It featured a simple dashboard layout with basic gauges and controls. The cabin was relatively spartan, with vinyl upholstery and minimal sound insulation. The seats were designed for comfort and durability, prioritizing functionality over luxury.
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab, known for its compact size and practicality, was a popular choice for commercial use in Japan. While it lacked the spaciousness of its larger sibling, the 1992 Mitsubishi Delica , it offered exceptional fuel efficiency and maneuverability, making it ideal for navigating tight city streets.
The Minicab’s robust engine and simple design contributed to its reliability, making it a workhorse for many small businesses.
The Minicab’s interior layout was optimized for driver comfort and visibility. The driver’s seat offered a commanding view of the road, while the large windows provided excellent visibility. The dashboard layout was designed to be intuitive and easy to use, with essential controls within easy reach.While the Minicab’s interior lacked some of the amenities found in larger vehicles, it provided a comfortable and functional space for work and transportation.
It featured basic features like a radio, heater, and optional air conditioning. The focus on practicality and affordability made the Minicab an attractive option for businesses and individuals seeking a reliable and efficient vehicle.
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab, a popular choice for commercial use in Japan, was known for its compact size and fuel efficiency. While the Minicab was designed for practicality, it also shared a lineage with the 1995 Mitsubishi Minica , a kei car known for its stylish design and performance.
Both vehicles, though different in their target markets, showcased Mitsubishi’s commitment to innovative engineering and compact vehicle design during that era.
Performance and Handling
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab, designed for urban environments and light commercial use, prioritizes practicality and efficiency over outright performance.
Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab was offered with a range of small, fuel-efficient gasoline engines.
- A 660cc three-cylinder engine, common in Japanese kei cars, was the standard option. This engine produced approximately 50 horsepower and offered respectable fuel economy, averaging around 35 miles per gallon in combined city and highway driving.
- A larger 1.0-liter four-cylinder engine was also available, offering slightly more power and torque, but at the cost of slightly lower fuel efficiency.
Handling and Maneuverability, 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab, with its compact dimensions and lightweight construction, is highly maneuverable in tight spaces and urban environments. The car’s short wheelbase and responsive steering contribute to its agility, making it easy to navigate narrow streets and tight parking spaces.
The 1999 Minicab’s handling is best described as predictable and stable, though it lacks the sporty feel of larger vehicles.
Safety Features: 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab, like many vehicles of its era, prioritized affordability and practicality over advanced safety features. While it offered some standard safety features, its overall safety equipment was limited compared to modern vehicles.
Standard Safety Features
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab came standard with a few basic safety features:
- Seat belts: Front and rear passengers were equipped with seat belts to help restrain occupants during a crash.
- Headlights: The vehicle had headlights for visibility during nighttime driving.
- Tail lights: Tail lights provided visibility for other drivers during nighttime driving and when braking.
- Turn signals: Turn signals helped alert other drivers of the vehicle’s intended direction changes.
Safety Features Compared to Contemporary Vehicles
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab’s safety features were significantly less advanced than those found in many contemporary vehicles. Modern vehicles often come standard with features such as:
- Anti-lock braking systems (ABS): ABS helps prevent wheel lock-up during braking, improving vehicle control.
- Airbags: Airbags deploy during a crash to cushion the driver and passengers, reducing the risk of serious injury.
- Electronic stability control (ESC): ESC helps maintain vehicle stability by applying brakes to individual wheels and adjusting engine power.
- Traction control: Traction control helps prevent wheel spin, improving acceleration and stability on slippery surfaces.
Notable Safety Advancements
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab didn’t feature any groundbreaking safety innovations. However, it did represent a step forward from earlier generations of minicabs in terms of its structural design, which incorporated crumple zones to absorb impact energy in a collision. This design feature helped improve passenger safety by distributing the force of an impact away from the passenger cabin.
Reliability and Durability
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab, known for its practicality and affordability, also boasts a reputation for reliability and durability. Its robust construction and simple mechanical design have contributed to its enduring appeal, particularly for commercial use. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its potential issues.
Common Issues and Problems
While generally reliable, the 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab can experience certain issues.
- Engine Problems:The 3G83 engine, a common powerplant in the Minicab, can suffer from oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gasket. Additionally, the timing belt should be replaced at recommended intervals to prevent engine damage.
- Transmission Issues:The 4-speed automatic transmission, while generally durable, may exhibit shifting problems or require a fluid change.
- Rust:The Minicab’s bodywork, particularly in areas exposed to the elements, can be susceptible to rust. Regular inspections and preventative measures are recommended.
- Electrical Issues:Electrical problems, such as faulty wiring or failing sensors, can occur over time, especially in older models.
Long-Term Ownership Experience and Maintenance Costs
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab, with proper care and maintenance, can provide reliable service for many years. Regular oil changes, fluid checks, and preventative maintenance are essential for extending its lifespan.
- Maintenance Costs:The Minicab’s simplicity and readily available parts make maintenance relatively affordable. Routine services, such as oil changes and brake repairs, are generally inexpensive.
- Parts Availability:Although the Minicab is no longer in production, many parts are still readily available through Mitsubishi dealerships and aftermarket suppliers.
- Fuel Efficiency:The Minicab’s small engine and lightweight design contribute to its fuel efficiency, which can be a significant advantage for commercial users.
Legacy and Impact
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab, despite its modest size and utilitarian design, played a significant role in shaping the kei car segment and influencing future Mitsubishi minicab models. It served as a testament to the practicality and efficiency of kei cars, solidifying their position as a popular choice for urban dwellers and businesses alike.
Impact on the Kei Car Segment
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab’s success further cemented the kei car segment’s importance in the Japanese automotive market. Its fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and affordability made it an attractive option for a wide range of consumers, contributing to the segment’s continued growth.
The Minicab’s popularity also influenced other manufacturers to invest in the kei car segment, leading to a diverse range of models and innovations.
Contribution to Future Mitsubishi Minicab Models
The 1999 Minicab’s design and engineering principles laid the foundation for subsequent Mitsubishi minicab models. Its compact size, reliable engine, and robust construction were refined and improved upon in later iterations, resulting in more fuel-efficient, powerful, and feature-rich vehicles. The Minicab’s legacy is evident in the modern Mitsubishi minicabs, which continue to be popular for their practicality and affordability.
Anecdotes and Stories
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab holds a special place in the hearts of many Japanese drivers. It was often seen as a symbol of hard work and practicality, used by small businesses, delivery services, and everyday commuters. One notable anecdote involves a Minicab owner who used his vehicle to transport his entire family on a road trip, showcasing the car’s versatility and spaciousness despite its small size.
Another story highlights the Minicab’s reliability, with a taxi driver claiming to have driven his Minicab for over 200,000 kilometers without major issues. These anecdotes illustrate the Minicab’s enduring appeal and its ability to meet the needs of diverse users.
Summary
The 1999 Mitsubishi Minicab stands as a testament to the ingenuity and innovation that defined the kei car segment in the late 20th century. Its practical design, efficient performance, and reliable nature made it a popular choice for Japanese drivers seeking a vehicle that could handle the challenges of urban life.
Though no longer in production, the Minicab’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of kei cars, showcasing the enduring value of small but mighty vehicles.
