MK 2

In October 1980 the MK2 “Colt Sapporo” was launched in the UK market, a few months after the “Colt Galant” (which replaced the Sigma). Although the MK2 looked more of a face lift than a complete new model, its floor pan, wheelbase and overall length were larger, and its engines were now “belt driven” instead of “Chain driven”, and both the Galant & Sapporo now had “Independent” rear suspension.

In terms of styling, the outline of both the MK1 & MK2 Sapporo’s were similar, but upon looking more closely visual differences were quite noticeable as in: Two large H/Lamps instead of Twin H/lamp arrangement, deeper chin spoiler (MK2), the MK2 rear number plate was now located between rear light clusters as opposed to under bumper as in MK1, the reversing lights (although still separate to other rear lighting) were placed next to rear clusters (instead of within bumper). The MK2 also lost its rear pillar air extractors and built in roof hump and gained body trim mouldings including the bumpers. Chrome usage was also lessened and “Alloy” wheels became a standard fitting.

The “Sapporo” MK2 Interior was much more business like, with better ergonomics, room and more supportive seating. Equipment levels were now lavish including Items such as: Adjustable door mirrors, all round electric windows, spilt 50/50 fold down rear seats, Alloy Wheels, Interior Fuel release and central armrest with lidded box, lockable glove box and the option of electric sunroof & rear wash wipe facility.

Trims Specs originally available from 1980 Included the “Colt Sapporo 2000 GSR” & “Colt Sapporo 2000 GLS Automatic”. April 1982 saw the introduction of the “Colt Sapporo 2000 Turbo”.

In addition to the “2000 GSR”, the “TURBO” included de-chroming of all exterior trim, a black chin spoiler beneath valance, a rear rubber boot lid spoiler, gas filled shock absorbers and lowered stiffer springs (by 1” Approx), together with a “TURBO” badge on boot lid. At the same time the “Sapporo” badge was moved to the boot lid from the quarter panels.

The “Turbo” Interior was finished in charcoal/black Velour and its seats more sporting. On the mechanical front the Turbocharger increased the engine output from (111 bhp – Sapporo GSR) to (168 bhp – Sapporo Turbo).

This considerably improved the performance of the car, dropping the 0-60mph from 10.5 Seconds to 7.5 Seconds, the 0-100 mph from 40.0 Seconds to 24.5 Seconds, and the maximum speed was increased from 113 mph to 127 mph.

The “Sapporo 2000 Turbo” was slightly updated in Sept 1983. Its improvements included front fog lamps incorporated within the front H/Lights, honeycomb grille, revised body trims which included “TURBO” lettering on quarter panel trims, de – chroming of front & rear bumpers, ribbed clear rear light clusters. Interior décor remained much the same, although variable intermittent wash wipe was introduced. The Fuel Injection & ECU unit was also upgraded.

Compared with the MK 1 Sapporo and also market changes, the Mk2’s Interior used much better quality plastics and trim materials, but the dashboard layout in particular lost much of its sporting appearance (Character???!!!!). It was roomier though and the boot much larger.

The cost of a MK 2 “2000 GSR” in 1980 was around £7.900 adding approx £500.00 for “2000 GLS Auto”. The “Turbo” cost £10,158 in 1982 and in 1985 the cost was £11,100.

With these high prices, the “Sapporo” was placed in exalted company, but sold none the less, and reliability of these superbly engineered cars was second to none, but body corrosion protection was very poor (MK 2 In particular) which made them prone to rusting early.

This has killed most of them – a great shame but many owners I’m sure have taken / or did take steps to ensure that the rusting process is slowed down by greasing the inner panels, and / or using waxoll (thanks a bunch damp British weather!!!!)

Some USA spec “Plymouth Sapporo” & “Dodge Challenger” models also had a digital dashboard (most interesting – anyone have a pic??) on the Mk 2 models, and these and Aussie Mk 2 models differed from the European & UK cars in that they retained the twin H/Lamp arrangement & also the “Live” rear axle (Why I don’t Know – can anyone help??)

Sales of the Sapporo within the USA halted in 1983, not sure about Japan. In Australia they were produced until 1987. In the UK sales stopped in 1984 fro the “GSR & GLS”, with the “Turbo” continuing until May 1985. The Sapporo was never directly replaced in UK market.