Mitsubishi Cordia
A wedge-shaped pioneer of the 1980s featuring Mitsubishi's unique 'Super Shift' dual-range transmission.
- Power
- 75 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.5 s
- Top speed
- 99 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$9k
About the Mitsubishi Cordia
The Mitsubishi Cordia was one of the first cars sold in North America under the Mitsubishi brand name rather than through Chrysler. It was designed to sit between the Tredia saloon and the Starion coupé, featuring a distinctive aerodynamic wedge profile with a low drag coefficient of 0.34. The 1.6-litre naturally aspirated model is best known for its 'Super Shift' transmission, which used a secondary lever to provide 'Economy' and 'Power' modes across four gears. While once common, the Cordia has become exceptionally rare in the 21st century, making it a sought-after curiosity for enthusiasts of 1980s Japanese design.
Mitsubishi Cordia specs
The Mitsubishi Cordia produces 75 bhp (56 kW) and 127 Nm (94 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.5 seconds and has a top speed of 99 mph (160 km/h).
| Make | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|
| Model | Cordia |
| Trim | 1.6 |
| Years | 1982–1990 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $7,100 when new |
| Engine | 1.6-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,597 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 75 bhp (56 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 127 Nm (94 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.5 s |
| Top speed | 99 mph (160 km/h) |
| Transmission | 8-speed Super Shift manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 940 kg (2,072 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 80 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 Cordia worth?
A typical Mitsubishi Cordia is estimated to be worth $3,000 – $9,000 (about £2,200 – £6,700).
Its original price when new was about $7,100.
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 Cordia rarity in CarSpot
The Mitsubishi Cordia is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 13 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 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 Cordia fun facts
- The 'Super Shift' transmission effectively gave the driver eight forward speeds by using a two-speed transfer case mated to a four-speed gearbox.
- The Cordia was among the first Mitsubishi vehicles to offer a fully digital instrument cluster in certain markets.
- It was part of a trio of vehicles, alongside the Tredia and Starion, that spearheaded Mitsubishi's independent entry into the US market in 1982.