About the Mitsubishi Colt
J L purchased this Mitsubishi Colt used for $15,000 (including all on-road costs) in 2014. J L would buy this car again because: “Last of the old-school Japanese front-wheel drive hot hatches”
How reliable has your car been? Tell us about any issues.
Car was very reliable in the years we’ve had it, even when modified. ECU tuning was easy but aftermarket parts were hard to come by so a lot of things were DIY.
What do you think of the ownership experience with your car?
As the car was tall and narrow, it was a practical car but yet still fun to drive. We were able to put in a rear facing baby-seat in the time we had the vehicle. However there is no rear middle seatbelt meaning the car is a 4 seater car.
Are you happy with the price and features of your car?
As it was not a very popular car, it had deprecated heavily making it a bargain buy. Also being a 09/2010 car, it had full curtain airbags and a factory fit Parrot Bluetooth handsfree kit which earlier models did not have.
What do you think of the performance and economy of your car?
The stock performance was adequate, however heat soak was a real issue as the tiny intercooler was inadequate for our Australian summers. The easiest way to resolve this is to fit an intercooler off a BA Falcon XR6t and some silicon piping (*gasps*) .
Changing the stock air filter to an K&N filter and a DIY metal scoop to the intake improved induction noise, a metal BOV off a Lancer Evo 7 or 8 improved boost, a full 2.5″ exhaust with high flow CAT + variable Xforce muffler and garage ECU tune saw it beating WRXs easily.
However even with Yokahoma AD08R tyres (stock tyres were AD07R’s), traction was an issue and really needed a LSD. Suspension was too soft for the track but the body was very rigid, and easily lifted the inner rear tyres in hard cornering on the track.
What do you think of the technology in your car?
Stock head-unit was typical of the era, it came with a six-CD stacker double DIN head unit that was promptly removed for a DIY Android head-unit. However the stock Parrot Bluetooth Handsfree kit was excellent.
What do you think of the ride comfort and handling of your car?
The ride height was too high and the suspension too soft for track work. Still firm but still sufficient for twisty mountain passes (Macquarie Pass was completed many many times) and comfortable on the highway.
If serious about tracking the car, expect suspension work to be done.
Do you have any additional comments about your car?
Sold the car and next owner was rear-ended and totalled the car. Should have never sold the car and kept it! Photos show how safe the Colt is with the passenger cell holding up well and all four doors still able to be opened.