'Mitsubishi J53 (CJ3B) Jeep'

In 1953 Mitsubishi got the rights to build Willys and the Mitsubishi Jeep was born; manufactured from 1953 - 1998. In 1970 Mitsubishi upgraded the engine from 2.2L Diesel to 2.7L diesel motor and soon became popular for its legendary reliability and added power. In 1986 the 2.7L engine received turbo charger and a reworked head boosting the refinement and power output to 94hp@3500rpm & very high torque density to weight ratio of 152lbs/ft@2000rpm, curb vehicle weight 1350 kg and is surprisingly quick.

4DR6 turbo direct injection engine is derived from 4DR5 2.7 Litre naturally aspirated engine. The head is modified to whirlpool type combustion chamber for direct injection system (Compression ratio 17.5) to produce maximum power, torque and fuel efficiency of 15.5km/litre or 36.6 miles / US gallon. Turbo is a Mitsubishi Heavy Industries waste gate equipped TD04 type turbocharger. 4DR6 (1986 ~ 1994) is recognised to be called the strongest Jeep engine with highest torque that starts from low engine speeds. Good torque characteristics helps minimise or eliminate turbo lag. In addition cooling, lubrication system, combustion chamber and the like were modified to accommodate all the added power while keeping the reliability at its best. Jeep engines are designed to operate on variety of fuel grades, qualities and extreme weather conditions making them suitable to operate around the world.

Over the years every aspect of the 4x4 drive train has been improved to modern standards. The interior including weather equipment and instrument panel are made to look original. Fitted with the ever reliable 2.7 litre Mitsubishi 4DR6 direct injection turbo diesel, this vehicle can cruise all day at highway speeds and tackle the toughest off road conditions with superb approach (47°) and departure (35.5°) angles.

It doesn't have doors and the roof is a stretched piece of plastic; it may keep the rain off but I doubt it! Summer fun only.

This car also has the bonus that Jan really likes it and is keen to drive, this is good. It is a strange car, it is shorter than a Fiesta but feels huge when you drive it.