The definition of 'lost in translation' automotive design, you probably know Mitsuoka from the Micra-based MkII Jag-alike Viewt a few thick-skinned individuals grey imported from Japan. And
as seen in Shed Of The Week
. Incredibly the Viewt is probably one of the least bonkers creations to have left Mitsuoka's workshops, the staggeringly fugly Orochi supercar and 'tributes' to London black cabs, Riley Elfs and more among its back catalogue.
She's a beau- ... oh, actually she's not
Whether it's popped a brave pill or something of more hallucinogenic qualities is unclear but a British distributor has decided now is the time to bring another Mitsuoka creation to the UK and has today confirmed the firm's Roadster - known as the Himiko in its homeland - will be offered for sale here. "The Mitsuoka Roadster completely revolutionises the world's expectations of a true modern day classic sports car," claims the helplessly optimistic press release. Seems cruel to knock their enthusiasm. And yet...
Squint really hard and you might mistake it for a slightly melted Jaguar XK120 crossed with a Morgan Aero 8. Squint even harder at the spec sheet and you might be able to convince yourself £53,800 for a Mazda MX-5 in retro fancy dress is a sensible way to spend your money. We won't even begin to suggest what else you might want to spend that kind of cash on; the comments thread awaits...
Mitigation? With the retractable hardtop in place you might not hear the sniggering as you pass. Whether you'll be able to outrun the 'WTF?' comments with the standard MX-5's 160hp is another matter. Poking fun at mistranslated English is a low blow but the proclamation 'beauty is a sin' on Mitsuoka's domestic market website is too good to ignore. And would appear to have been taken a bit too literally.
At Shed money a Mitsuoka has a kitsch novelty value we can all laugh along with. At 50 grand? Hard to escape the idea the joke may be on you and you alone.