The Mitsuoka Rock Star is a unique, two-seater roadster produced by the Japanese coachbuilder Mitsuoka Motors. Introduced in 2018, the Rock Star is notable for its retro styling heavily inspired by the first-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA), but with a distinctly American aesthetic reminiscent of 1950s and 60s American sports cars. While not officially sold in the United States, the Rock Star represents Mitsuoka’s niche market of creating bespoke, low-volume vehicles that appeal to enthusiasts seeking a distinctive and nostalgic driving experience. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of classic automotive design, reinterpreted for the modern era.
Mitsuoka Rock Star: A Retro Revival
Mitsuoka Motors is renowned for its small-scale production of vehicles that often blend Japanese engineering with classic designs from around the world. The Rock Star is a prime example of this philosophy. It’s built on the platform of the Mazda MX-5, but undergoes a complete body transformation, resulting in a vehicle that looks dramatically different from its donor car. The Rock Star caters to a specific segment of the market – those who appreciate the driving dynamics of the MX-5 but desire a more visually striking and historically evocative vehicle. It’s a car that aims to turn heads and spark conversations.
Engine & Performance
The Mitsuoka Rock Star is powered by a 1.5-liter SKYACTIV-G inline four-cylinder engine, producing 132 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 152 Nm (112.11 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4500 rpm. This engine, sourced from Mazda, is known for its efficiency and responsiveness. The power-to-weight ratio of 8.6 kg/Hp (115.8 Hp/tonne) and torque-to-weight ratio of 7.5 kg/Nm (133.3 Nm/tonne) contribute to a lively driving experience. The engine features direct injection, a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT), and a high compression ratio of 13:1. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. While not designed for outright speed, the Rock Star offers sufficient performance for enjoyable open-road driving, prioritizing feel and engagement over raw acceleration.
Design & Features
The defining characteristic of the Mitsuoka Rock Star is its exterior design. The bodywork is completely custom, featuring a long hood, prominent fenders, a small cabin, and a boat-tail rear end. These styling cues are heavily influenced by classic American roadsters of the 1950s and 60s, such as the Chevrolet Corvette and Ford Thunderbird. The interior, while based on the MX-5, receives unique trim and detailing to complement the exterior aesthetic. The Rock Star is a two-seater roadster with two doors, offering a classic open-air driving experience. Standard features include ABS (Anti-lock braking system), electric power steering, and ventilated front disc brakes. The vehicle’s relatively low curb weight of 1140 kg (2513.27 lbs) contributes to its nimble handling. The design prioritizes aesthetics and a nostalgic feel over modern conveniences, creating a unique and characterful vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsuoka |
| Model | Rock Star |
| Generation | Rock Star |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 SKYACTIV-G (132 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Roadster |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp, 115.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm, 133.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 132 Hp @ 7000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 88.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 152 Nm @ 4500 rpm / 112.11 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm |
| Engine displacement | 1496 cm3 / 91.29 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm / 2.93 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm / 3.38 in. |
| Compression ratio | 13:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l / 4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt |
| Coolant | 5.6 l / 5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1140 kg / 2513.27 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l / 10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal |
| Length | 4345 mm / 171.06 in |
| Width | 1770 mm / 69.69 in |
| Height | 1235 mm / 48.62 in |
| Wheelbase | 2310 mm / 90.94 in |
| Front track | 1495 mm / 58.86 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1505 mm / 59.25 in |
| Front overhang | 954 mm / 37.56 in |
| Rear overhang | 1081 mm / 42.56 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm / 5.51 in |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.4 m / 30.84 ft |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive. Internal Combustion engine (ICE) |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/50 R16 84V |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
The Mitsuoka Rock Star occupies a unique position in the automotive landscape. It’s not a mass-produced vehicle, but rather a carefully crafted homage to a bygone era of automotive design. Its appeal lies in its individuality and its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia for classic American roadsters, while benefiting from the reliability and modern engineering of the Mazda MX-5 platform. It’s a car for enthusiasts who value style, character, and a distinctive driving experience.
