Mitsuoka is a Japanese car maker that takes an existing Japanese car, and turns it into something else. Not a kit car, but a more substantial conversion, in volume. Most of the ones sent here as grey imports are variouis Nissan hatches reimagined, horrendously, as mid-60s Jags. Then they have an Excalibur-Liberace inspired conversion for the NC MX5; amazingly, TW White has been importing these, and selling micro-numbers (the chassis is cut and lengthened, to graft on a 30s style front end.
Now they have the ND-based Rock Star. Only 50 are planned. Draw dropping, but the illusion will be ruined as soon as you turn the key.
Back in the 1970s when I worked at the TV Film Studios one of the regular actresses used to turn up in a red Stingray. Being in Maintenance we didn’t mix with the expensive Talent, but that didn’t stop us lusting after the car, and we always knew when it was trying to squeeze into the reserved parking; the rise and fall of the exhaust burble shuffling back and forth and the (usually) muttered curses would float up into the open workshop windows on the first floor.
There would always be a row of heads looking down to admire the scenery. I assume she was aware of this because that warm summer encouraged the lightest of skimpy clothing, and she was very keen on it.
The last time I saw the car it was covered in minor dings, but apparently still in daily use. One of the Grips I knew managed to be persuaded into servicing it and he usually gave us chapter and verse afterwards. I can remember her face, but the name? It is too long ago, and it was hard enough to remember even then with so many passing through.
I for one think it looks amazing base price appears to be £31k accordingly to this article, 1.5 engined? The way things are going, a 3 pot Eco engine would be sufficient in this country.
I rather like it. Looks like there are no major chassis changes as the hideous NC conversion had. Think the front wing vents should be positioned a bit higher up but apart from that it’s a thumbs up from me.
Historically, Mitsuoka’s sportscar creations verge on the investment status.
When 2007 Orichi’s come onto the market, they fetch high values in Japan.
Its impossible at the moment to predict the depreciation of a new limited 50 unit series, in relation to the regular ND or the 124, but based on prior experience, the omens are very good. This is actually the 4th MX5-based model that Mitsuoka has produced since 1990, so I suppose they know their market better than you or I, from 4000+ miles away. All of their MX5 specials have been a sell out. I’m sure all the people who buy this car will feel very happy, and not at all like fools portrayed by some. Feel happy for other MX5 owners.
