1978 Mitsubishi Other Mitsubishi Models

1978 MITSUBISHI JEEP J25H

Serial Number 4DR5142254

81,699 Kilometers/50,765 Miles

Affectionately named Matilda by its current owner, this 1978 Mitsubishi Jeep J25H is a rare and unique vehicle never originally/officially imported into the United States. It was originally registered in the Philippines and subsequently legally imported to the U.S. The current owner purchased the vehicle in January, 2014 from Motorcars of Dallas (Texas) and had it shipped to Michigan.

Matilda was built by Mitsubishi in Japan under license from Jeep for the Philippine market. It is powered by a rugged, reliable 4DR5 diesel engine displacing 2669 cc and generating 80 horsepower at 3,800 rpm. This is connected to a 4 speed manual transmission and 4 wheel drive, with locking hubs on the front axle and a two speed transfer case. It has a bench seat in the front and two parallel jump seats in the back storage area. The front seat is fixed and positioned close to instrument panel and pedals. A new fabricated bracket may be needed to move the seat back if necessary. There is no heater or air conditioning, but there are enough vents to be comfortable in 90 degree heat. This is very basic vehicle and was marketed for industrial and off road uses. Matilda is a workhorse rather than a speedster.

The odometer registers 81.699 kilometers (50,765 miles). The diesel engine was rebuilt 7,000 km ago. Brakes were replaced in 2020, and steering mechanics including tie rod ends and tube adaptors were replaced in 2021. The exterior and interior show the patina expected of a forty-seven year old industrial vehicle. The vehicle comes with lots of parts, including enough oil and filters for another 50,000 miles. The Jeep comes with some service records and literature, however, the owner has done much of the maintenance himself. It has been stored every winter and has not seen any snow.

This is a collectible vehicle and is an attention getter!