1987 Mitsubishi Sapporo III (E16A) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The wheelbase of the Mitsubishi Sapporo III (E16A) measures approximately 2,470 mm (97.2 inches). This moderate wheelbase length plays a significant role in balancing the vehicle's handling and ride comfort. A shorter wheelbase usually results in more nimble and agile handling, which is suitable for a sporty coupe like the Sapporo. At the same time, it limits rear passenger legroom and cargo space compared to longer wheelbase vehicles. Therefore, the Sapporo III offers a dynamic driving experience with adequate, though not expansive, interior space suited primarily for two occupants or a compact four-seater arrangement.

The curb weight of the Mitsubishi Sapporo III is approximately 1,070 to 1,120 kg (2,360 to 2,470 lbs). This relatively light weight for a coupe in its class positively influences its performance by enabling quicker acceleration and improved fuel efficiency. The lighter weight also enhances agility and handling precision, making the Sapporo III responsive and enjoyable to drive, especially given its sporty intentions. However, the weight balance is carefully maintained to ensure vehicle stability and safe driving dynamics. Overall, this curb weight supports a well-rounded performance profile typical for late 1980s sport coupes.

The interior of the Mitsubishi Sapporo III offers a snug and driver-focused cabin, typical for coupes of the late 1980s. While exact passenger volume figures are not widely published, the coupe layout prioritizes front seat comfort and driving ergonomics. Rear seating is generally limited and best suited for short trips or smaller passengers due to the compact overall vehicle dimensions and sport-oriented design. The lowered roofline and sloping rear reduce headroom for rear occupants, emphasizing the car’s emphasis on style and driving experience rather than rear passenger space. Thus, the Sapporo III is ideal for drivers or couples rather than families needing extensive interior volume.

The cargo capacity of the Mitsubishi Sapporo III is modest given its coupe body style, typically offering a trunk volume around 200 to 250 liters (7.1 to 8.8 cubic feet). This space provides enough room for everyday items like grocery bags or small luggage but may be limited for larger or bulkier cargo. The sporty coupe design prioritizes style and driving dynamics over extensive storage, so practicality is somewhat compromised compared to hatchbacks or sedans. For daily use, this cargo capacity is sufficient for typical commuting and short trips but may require creative packing for longer journeys or larger loads.

The Mitsubishi Sapporo III has a width of about 1,660 mm (65.4 inches) and a height of approximately 1,325 mm (52.2 inches). These relatively compact dimensions make the car well-suited to fitting inside a standard garage, which typically has a clearance width of around 2.4 to 2.7 meters (about 8 to 9 feet) and height clearance well above 2 meters (6.6 feet). The Sapporo III's narrow width and low height make it easy to park in tight spaces, typical in residential garages or urban areas. Drivers should still be mindful of side clearances and garage door widths but can generally expect no issues accommodating the Sapporo III indoors.

Compared to its predecessor, the second-generation Mitsubishi Sapporo, the Sapporo III (1987-1990) features a slightly more compact and aerodynamic design. While the predecessor was based on earlier platforms with more angular styling and slightly larger dimensions, the E16A generation trims overall length and height marginally, promoting better aerodynamics and sportier aesthetics. The Sapporo III’s dimensions reflect a modernized approach focusing on improved performance and handling rather than cabine expansiveness. This makes the third generation sportier and potentially lighter, while the predecessor may have been a bit roomier but less agile. Specific dimensional differences typically include a reduced height and marginal changes in width to enhance road presence.

In comparison with other late 1980s coupes like the Toyota Celica, Nissan 200SX, or Ford Mustang of the same era, the Mitsubishi Sapporo III holds its own as a relatively compact and narrow coupe. Its length around 4.4 meters (173 inches) is slightly shorter or comparable to many competitors, while its width at 1.66 meters (65.4 inches) tends to be somewhat narrower, offering easier maneuverability in tighter spaces. The lower height of approximately 1.33 meters (52.2 inches) aligns with the sporty, aerodynamic styling seen in competing models. While slightly smaller, the Sapporo III focuses on balanced dimensions for handling and a sporty stance rather than maximum cabin space or cargo volume typical for some contemporaries.

Yes, the Mitsubishi Sapporo III is well within the size limits for most standard residential garages. With dimensions measuring roughly 4,395 mm (173 inches) in length, 1,660 mm (65.4 inches) in width, and 1,325 mm (52.2 inches) in height, it easily fits within garage spaces that commonly measure about 2.4 to 2.7 meters (8 to 9 feet) wide, 5 to 6 meters (16 to 20 feet) deep, and over 2 meters (6.5 feet) high. Its narrow width makes it especially convenient for parking in tighter residential garages, and its low height poses no issues with modern garage door clearances. This makes the Sapporo III practical for owners who store their vehicles indoors.

Apart from its compact dimensions, the Mitsubishi Sapporo III coupe is characterized by its sporty design and performance focus typical of late 1980s Japanese coupes. It usually offered a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout or optional four-wheel-drive systems depending on the variant, contributing to versatile driving dynamics. Design-wise, it featured sleek, aerodynamic lines with pop-up headlights in some markets, and a relatively lightweight build enhancing agility. The interior tended to emphasize driver engagement with straightforward controls and limited rear passenger accommodation typical of sport coupes. Mechanically, it offered a range of engines including efficient four-cylinder and V6 options, making it flexible for both daily driving and spirited use.