The Mitsubishi Space Star (DG0) is a compact minivan produced by Mitsubishi Motors from 1998 to 2004. While not officially sold in the United States, the Space Star was a significant vehicle in the European market, offering a practical and affordable family transport solution. Positioned as a competitor to vehicles like the Renault Scenic and Opel Zafira, the Space Star distinguished itself with its relatively small footprint and efficient engine options. This article details the 1.8 GDI (122 horsepower) automatic variant, focusing on its technical specifications and characteristics.
Mitsubishi Space Star (DG0): An Overview
The Space Star (DG0) represented Mitsubishi’s entry into the increasingly popular compact minivan segment. Designed to maximize interior space within a manageable exterior size, it catered to families seeking versatility without the bulk of larger MPVs. The 1.8 GDI model, equipped with a direct-injection gasoline engine and an automatic transmission, was a popular choice for buyers prioritizing convenience and reasonable performance. The GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) technology was a key feature, aimed at improving fuel efficiency and power output compared to traditional port-fuel injection systems.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Space Star 1.8 GDI is an inline-four cylinder engine displacing 1834 cubic centimeters (111.92 cubic inches). This engine produces 122 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 174 Nm (128.34 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3750 rpm. The direct injection system contributes to a power-to-liter ratio of 66.5 hp/l. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 12.4 seconds and a top speed of 185 km/h (114.95 mph). The 0-60 mph acceleration is calculated at 11.8 seconds. The weight-to-power ratio is 10.2 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 7.1 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonable balance between weight and performance for its class.
Design & Features
The Mitsubishi Space Star (DG0) is a five-door minivan with seating for five passengers. Its design prioritizes practicality and interior space. The body style is characterized by a relatively high roofline and a short, boxy shape, maximizing headroom and cargo capacity. A key feature of the Space Star is its versatile interior. The rear seats can be folded or removed entirely, creating a large, flat-load area. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 370 liters (13.07 cubic feet) with all seats in place to a maximum of 1370 liters (48.38 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded. Safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The vehicle features hydraulic power steering and utilizes a wishbone front suspension and a spring strut rear suspension for a comfortable ride. The Space Star’s interior design is functional and straightforward, focusing on durability and ease of use.
Technical Specifications
| General Information | |
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Space Star |
| Generation | Space Star (DG0) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 GDI (122 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm |
| Engine Specs | |
| Power | 122 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 174 Nm @ 3750 rpm (128.34 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1834 cm3 (111.92 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Space, Volume and Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 1240 kg (2733.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1730 kg (3814 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490 kg (1080.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 370 l (13.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1370 l (48.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 4030 mm (158.66 in.) |
| Width | 1715 mm (67.52 in.) |
| Height | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm (98.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine (ICE) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
The Mitsubishi Space Star (DG0) 1.8 GDI Automatic, while not a vehicle commonly found in the US market, offered a compelling package of practicality, efficiency, and affordability in Europe. Its direct-injection engine and versatile interior made it a popular choice for families seeking a compact and functional minivan.
