Mitsubishi Minicab
The Minicab spans several truck and van generations. Start with the chassis plate, then check the body, engine and equipment against the correct Mitsubishi record before comparing listings.
By The Kei Hub · Updated
Which specifications apply?
Generation reference: the fifth-generation launch in 1991 and sixth-generation launch in 1999. The manufacturer's history includes vans as well as trucks; their dimensions are not interchangeable.
- 1999 truck wheelbase
- 2,200 mm
- 1999 body layout
- Semi-cab design
Which years and generations should you compare?
January 1991
Mitsubishi introduced the fifth-generation Minicab truck and van.
January 1999
The sixth generation adopted the revised Japanese mini-vehicle standard. Mitsubishi lists a 2,200 mm truck wheelbase and a different 2,390 mm van wheelbase.
A model year alone does not establish U.S. import eligibility. Follow the import planning guide and check the actual manufacture date.
What condition problems should you look for?
These are inspection priorities for an older vehicle, not a claim that every Minicab has these defects. Use an independent inspection to assess the vehicle being sold.
- Check the cab floor, frame, bed mounts and suspension attachment points for corrosion or repairs.
- Request a cold-start video and a full warm-up check for smoke, leaks or unstable temperature.
- Confirm which drive modes the actual truck has, then have an inspector test them as its manual specifies.
What should you check before an auction bid?
- Request photos of the stamped chassis number and plate; match both to the export paperwork.
- Ask for close-up photos beneath the cab and bed, not only exterior listing shots.
- Get a written list of engine, transmission and brake work with receipts where available.
Use the auction sheet decoder as a reference, then ask the exporter to translate the full sheet and clarify the auction house's grading rules.
How should you plan maintenance and ownership?
Get the service manual that matches the chassis, engine and transmission. Have a mechanic establish a baseline for brakes, tires, belts, hoses, leaks and fluid condition. Oil grades, capacities, timing-drive parts and service intervals should come from that manual.
Before buying, review your state's registration and road-use rules, request an insurance quote for the actual vehicle, and put written transport and broker quotes into the import cost calculator.
Where do these model details come from?
Manufacturer history establishes the references above. It does not verify the condition, modifications or equipment of an individual vehicle.