Blast from the Past: 1995 Mitsubishi Delica Space Gear
Ever dreamt of owning a right-hand-drive van that screams adventure? Well, this 1995 Mitsubishi Delica Space Gear might just be your ticket. Recently imported to the US and nabbed by its current owner in 2023, it offers the charm of the quirky, with a hefty dose of rugged capability.
The Heart and Soul
At its core, you’ve got a 2.8-liter turbodiesel inline-four engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission, making it feel like a classic road warrior. Equipped with a dual-range transfer case and a locking center differential, it’s ready to take on terrains that would have lesser vehicles quivering in fear.
Standing Tall
An Ironman 4×4 lift kit coupled with white 15″ wheels ensures this Delica has a towering presence. The silver exterior, donning a snorkel and a roof rack with a light bar, adds to its adventurous persona. Here’s a fun fact: frontal-looking locking hubs and air conditioning make it a mix of both function and comfort.
An interesting tidbit? Its swiveling second-row bench seat, upholstered in gray cloth and vinyl, feels like you’re riding in the comfort of yesteryears while clambering through the 21st century.
The Visual Appeal
Decked out in silver with striking white side graphics, this van not only boasts aesthetics but also utility. A roof rack with a light bar, snorkel, and receiver hitch are your trusty companions for any off-road jaunt, despite a few dings like a dent on the rear quarter panel and some body scratches.
Wheels That Wander
- White-finished 15″ wheels
- 31×10.5″ Goodyear Wrangler tires
- 2″ Ironman 4×4 lift kit
This lift and wheel combo doesn’t just give it stature, but also the confidence to tackle less traveled paths with poise. The brake fluid was flushed in 2024, ensuring things stop as much as they go.
Inside Look
The seating is fashioned out of a patterned gray cloth with sturdy vinyl sides, adding a retro yet durable vibe. Amenities include power windows, climate control for both the front and rear, and an aftermarket head unit with navigation to guide you through those spontaneous detours.
Steering the Experience
A four-spoke steering wheel leads you through the adventure, with a 180-km/h speedometer, tachometer, and a plethora of gauges to keep you informed. An auxiliary gauge pod acts as your co-pilot with a digital inclinometer, although the external temperature gauge might leave you guessing on chilly mornings.
Approximately 15k of the 129k kilometers on the odometer were added by its current owner. It’s driven enough to prove its mettle, but not too much that it feels worn out.
A Peek Under the Hood
The 2.8-liter 4M40 turbodiesel’s top-mount intercooler is something to behold. Recent upgrades included a rebuilt diesel fuel injection pump and a shiny new aluminum radiator. If that wasn’t enough, a boost controller was installed, and the timing chain and fan clutch received a much-needed update.
Power Play
Power distribution comes courtesy of a drive to the rear or all four wheels through its manual transmission and locking differentials. Recent TLC included fluid swaps in the transmission, transfer case, and differentials, ensuring smooth transitions. While you may notice some corrosion on underside components, it’s paired with a fabricated exhaust system, audible to let you know there’s still some fire in its belly.
Plus, you’ll have some spare wheels and tires for backup, as well as the removed center console and a trusty repair manual. Just the thought of it makes the competing Renault Captur and Nissan Micra appear like mere city slickers.