Mitsubishi Model A
The dawn of the Japanese automotive industry.
- Power
- 35 bhp
- Top speed
- 60 mph
About the Mitsubishi Model A
The Mitsubishi Model A holds the distinction of being Japan's first series-production automobile, developed by the Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co. in Kobe. Heavily based on the Fiat Tipo 3, it was a hand-built luxury sedan designed to transport high-ranking government officials and executives in comfort. The interior was lavishly appointed with lacquered white cypress and luxury British woollen cloth, reflecting its status as a prestige vehicle. However, the labor-intensive production process made it significantly more expensive than mass-produced American imports, leading to its discontinuation after only 22 units were completed.
Mitsubishi Model A specs
The Mitsubishi Model A produces 35 bhp (26 kW). It has a top speed of 60 mph (97 km/h).
| Make | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|
| Model | Model A |
| Trim | 35hp |
| Years | 1917–1921 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | Japan |
| Production | About 22 built |
| Engine | 2.8-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,765 cc (2.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 35 bhp (26 kW) |
| Top speed | 60 mph (97 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,315 kg (2,899 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 27 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Mitsubishi Model A rarity in CarSpot
The Mitsubishi Model A is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 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 Model A fun facts
- None of the original 22 cars are known to have survived; the examples seen today in museums are highly accurate replicas built by Mitsubishi in later decades.
- Because specialized automotive tools did not exist in Japan at the time, the Model A was constructed almost entirely by hand using hammers and chisels.
- The car was inducted into the Japan Automotive Hall of Fame in 2019 as a 'Historic Car' for its role in proving domestic mass production was possible.