Mitsubishi 500
The humble rear-engined pioneer that marked Mitsubishi's post-war return to passenger car production.
- Power
- 21 bhp
- Top speed
- 56 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$18k
About the Mitsubishi 500
The Mitsubishi 500 was the first passenger car produced by Shin Mitsubishi Heavy-Industries after the Second World War, debuting at the 1959 Tokyo Motor Show. Designed to meet the Japanese government's 'national car' concept, it featured a rear-mounted, air-cooled two-cylinder engine and a monocoque body. While simple and utilitarian, it proved its durability by winning its class at the 1962 Macau Grand Prix. It laid the engineering foundation for the subsequent Colt series and Mitsubishi's global automotive expansion.
Mitsubishi 500 specs
The Mitsubishi 500 produces 21 bhp (16 kW) and 33 Nm (24 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 56 mph (90 km/h).
| Make | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|
| Model | 500 |
| Trim | 500 |
| Years | 1960–1962 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | Japan |
| Production | About 13,289 built |
| Engine | 493cc air-cooled 2-cylinder OHV |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 493 cc (0.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 21 bhp (16 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 33 Nm (24 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 56 mph (90 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 490 kg (1,080 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 43 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mitsubishi 500 worth?
A typical Mitsubishi 500 is estimated to be worth $8,000 – $18,000 (about £6,000 – £13,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mitsubishi 500 rarity in CarSpot
The Mitsubishi 500 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 44 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mitsubishi 500 fun facts
- The Mitsubishi 500 was the first Japanese car to be wind-tunnel tested during its development phase to improve aerodynamics and cooling.
- In its racing debut at the 1962 Macau Grand Prix, the Mitsubishi 500 took the top three spots in the under 750cc class.
- The car's initial retail price was 390,000 Yen, making it one of the most affordable entry points to car ownership in 1960s Japan.