1978 Mitsubishi Colt I (A150) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Mitsubishi Colt I (A150) hatchback weighs roughly 740 to 800 kg (1,631 to 1,764 lbs), depending on specific trim and equipment levels. This relatively low weight contributes to nimble handling and good fuel efficiency, reflective of subcompact cars of that era. The light weight also helps the modest engine deliver sufficient performance for urban and suburban driving conditions.

The wheelbase of the Mitsubishi Colt I (A150) hatchback is approximately 2,260 mm (88.9 inches). A wheelbase of this length for a subcompact car provides a balanced compromise between cabin space and vehicle agility. It allows enough room for comfortable front and rear seating while maintaining an easy turning radius for city driving and parking.

Yes, the Mitsubishi Colt I (A150), with its length of about 3.7 meters (12.2 feet), width of 1.54 meters (5.06 feet), and height of 1.35 meters (4.43 feet), easily fits into a standard garage. Typical garage dimensions generally exceed 6 meters (20 feet) in length and 2.4 meters (8 feet) in width, so parking the Colt I is quite convenient, making it ideal for urban and suburban households.

The Mitsubishi Colt I (A150) is often considered an evolution from the earlier compact models from Mitsubishi before 1978, though it effectively became a new series rather than a direct successor to a previous Colt line. Compared to earlier small cars by Mitsubishi, the Colt I offered a refined subcompact size with a hatchback design, optimizing space utility. It was slightly larger in length and wheelbase than some of the prior Kei or microcar models but still retained a compact footprint aimed at economical urban transport.

Within the subcompact category of the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Mitsubishi Colt I (A150) offered competitive interior space thanks to its efficient hatchback design. While dimensions were typical for the class, the practical hatchback layout allowed for flexible cargo configurations, an advantage over some sedan-style rivals. Compared to competitors like the Honda Civic first generation or Toyota Starlet, the Colt I provided similar passenger comfort and cargo versatility, making it a practical choice for city dwellers.

The successor to the Colt I (A150), the Colt II, introduced after 1984, generally featured increased dimensions reflecting a trend toward slightly larger and more spacious subcompact cars. The newer generation typically saw increments in length and wheelbase, improving passenger comfort and cargo capacity. While the Colt I prioritized compactness and maneuverability, the successor balanced these traits with enhanced road presence and interior room, keeping pace with evolving market demands.

The Mitsubishi Colt I (A150) features a 3-door hatchback body style, a common design choice for subcompact cars aiming to maximize interior and cargo flexibility within a tight overall footprint. The hatchback allows for easy access to the cargo area, rear seating versatility, and better cargo volume than comparable sedans of similar size. This design enhances practicality without increasing external dimensions significantly, making the Colt I efficient for urban usage.

The Mitsubishi Colt I (A150) measures roughly 1,540 mm (60.6 inches) in width and 1,350 mm (53.1 inches) in height. These compact external dimensions confer advantages in crowded urban environments, allowing the vehicle to maneuver easily through narrow streets and fit into tight parking spaces where wider or taller cars might struggle. Its relatively low height also likely contributes to a lower center of gravity, aiding stability.

Due to its compact size (approx. 3,715 mm length) and light weight (around 740-800 kg), the Mitsubishi Colt I (A150) benefits from excellent fuel efficiency, which was crucial in an era when fuel economy began to be a higher priority. The smaller dimensions also make the car highly practical for urban settings where parking and traffic congestion are concerns. Its size and weight contribute to nimble handling and lower running costs, enhancing its appeal to economical drivers during its production period.