1983 Mitsubishi Touch Up Paint (23 OEM Colors)

The 1983 Mitsubishi Vibe

In 1983, Mitsubishi was busy proving they were more than just a partner for Chrysler. They were dropping futuristic "techno-wedges" like the Starion and Cordia, and rugged trailblazers like the Montero and the Mitsubishi Truck. In our vault, we've focused on the one survivor that truly defined the "high-tech" Japanese aesthetic of that year: Kalapana Black. This wasn't just a color; it was a statement of intent on every Mirage and Tredia that rolled off the line-deep, menacing, and sharp enough to cut through the 80s neon haze.

Paint Health Check

Your 1983 rig was born in the Single Stage Era. This was back when we mixed the pigment and the protection into one heavy-duty cocktail. It's "honest" paint-what you see is what you get-but it comes with a catch. Unlike the peeling "plastic-wrap" failures of the 90s, 1983 paint suffers from Oxidation. Without a clear coat to shield it, the UV rays eat the pigment alive, turning that deep Kalapana Black into a chalky, gray ghost. If your Galant or Lancer looks like it's covered in white flour, you're looking at a paint job that's literally gasping for air.

Restoration Tip

When you're touching up a survivor from '83, you have to remember that this paint is thirsty. Once you've filled those chips and leveled the surface, you can't just walk away and hope for the best. Single-stage paint is a living thing that requires a sacrificial barrier. It needs wax or it dies. To keep your repair from fading into a different shade of gray within six months, hit it with a high-quality sealant or a thick carnauba wax. You aren't just adding shine; you're providing the UV protection that the factory forgot to include.