Mitsubishi Delica

The Mitsubishi Delica is a range of multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) built by Mitsubishi Motors since 1969. It was originally based on a small pickup truck introduced the previous year, also called the Delica, its name derived from the English "DELIvery CAr".[1] This truck, and a commercial van derived from it, was later rebadged as L300 and thereafter the Delica nameplate was reserved for the non-commercial market.

First generation (1969)

The production of the Delica light commercial cab-over pickup began in 1968. Using a KE44 1.1L engine producing 58PS (57hp/43kW), its maximum payload was 600kg (1323lb) and had a top end speed of 115km/h (71mph). A year later, in line with consumer needs, a cargo van and a passenger van were added to the lineup. The passenger van adopted the name Star Wagon and could seat nine people in three rows of seats.

Second generation (1979)

The Delica's popularity meant that in 1979 the line-up was expanded to include ten model variations encompassing a wide variety of passenger, cargo and recreational applications. A four-wheel drive option was made available in 1982, a first in the Japanese van market.

Third generation L300 Star Wagon (1986)

In 1986 the Delica underwent its third full model change. More aerodynamic than previous versions, its monocoque body and extensive safety features proved very popular in Japan's fast-growing recreational vehicle market segment.

Although the subsequent L400 Space Gear was introduced in 1994, the L300 model remained in production in parallel until 1998. Thereafter, Mitsubishi sold badge engineered Mazda Bongos, an arrangement also followed by Hyundai (Grace) and Nissan (Vanette).

Fourth generation L400 Space Gear (1994)

1993–1996

The fourth generation is based on the chassis of the Mitsubishi Pajero and has full off road capabilities, with four-wheel drive, high and low ratio gears and differential locking. It has engine variations from 2.5 litres through to a 2.8L intercooled turbodiesel. A 2.4L and a 3.0L V6 petrol engine with 12 or 24 valves, each with 4 gears and overdrive. Apart from the 2.8L diesel model they are available as a two or a four wheel drive version.