Arriving on the UK shores in 1978, Mitsubishi introduced a typically Japanese concept to UK buyers; the compact personal luxury car. Based on the Mitsubishi Sigma, it was imported into the UK by Colt Cars UK, the UK subsidiary of the brand. One of several plush Japanese coupes available at the time, the Sapporo’s unique selling point was its well-publicised ’80’ Series 2-litre OHC ‘silent shaft’ engines, which would cancel out piston vibrations.
Keen equipment and attractive pillar-less styling gave a lot of showroom appeal but it struggled against similar-priced European 2-litre coupes, which offered a far more engaged driving experience. However, the motoring press soon realised there was a market for those who value comfort and cruising abilities above outright urge and handling. Naturally better suited for American buyers, sales fell under Chrysler’s group reach, who owned 15% of the company. Sold as a Plymouth or a Dodge, it was met with a relatively muted response.
Facelift versions were kitted out with Turbos which helped to carry the Sapparo until the more aggressive and better-known Starion took over in 1982. This car spent much of its life under the careful ownership of several South London owners before being exported and restored in Ireland. Back in the UK after 10 years, it was photographed for auction in 2022.
