Classic TV: 1983 Mitsubishi Sigma

    Patrick Jackson 31 December, 2024

    1983 Mitsubishi Sigma

    Sometimes, the simplest advertising is the most effective

    Sometimes, simplicity sells the message best when it comes to automotive advertising, and that's exactly what Mitsubishi opted for in Australia when it came time to advertise the updated 1983 Sigma.

    Only one camera angle features throughout, a close up of the front of each Sigma model from 1977, when it was then-badged a Chrysler, through 'til the latest 1983 model which now wore the Mitsubishi diamonds.

    As each of them is christened by a champagne bottle, the tagline makes the model's constant evolution each year clear, as "it just keeps getting better". It mightn't be the most catchy line, but there's no missing the message.

    But that was just to promote the sedan model. To advertise the 1983 Sigma 'PowerWagon', which had been "designed to meet the needs of the most up-to-date families", Mitsubishi splashed some cash on the CGI family of the future.

    Well, at least supposedly. The robot family the updated wagon was apparently aimed at aren't exactly high-tech with what they're actually loading into their new Sigma. Forget an iPad or e-scooter, because there wasn't the foresight of quite such things back then. A regular old beach ball is supposedly enough to keep young robots entertained.

    It's also worth noting that 1984 saw quite the change in the Sigma's advertising. Rather than keeping things subtle and simple, it was now time to get potential customers revved-up about the power it had on tap.

    Making the observation that "too many four-cylinders are held back by engine size", the 2.6-litre four-pot in the Galant-based sedan has "power when you need it". Enough, it would appear, to shatter even the largest galvanised chain links.

    Even dealers got in on the action when it came to creating imaginative Sigma ads at the time.

    Sydney's Purnell Bros Mitsubishi were keen to advertise the big deals they were offering on Sigma models in the early '80s. It's safe to say you won't see ads quite like this these days.

    Patrick Jackson

    Writer & Sub Editor

    Patricks an automotive journalist with more than eight years of experience across a range of online, print, and broadcast media. His focus is primarily on automotive content, having launched the car review website Drive Section in 2019 and the automotive adventure site Ark & Sons in 2024. He is a passionate car enthusiast with a particular interest in classic cars. His past credits include DriveTribe, Vehicle History, Finder, ForceGT, The Weekender Herald, Supercar Blondie, and WhichCar.​

    More inEntertainment

    BMW E30 M3 Print Advertisement

    The history of BMW’s iconic ‘Ultimate Driving Machine’ slogan

    There are few taglines in the automotive industry that work as well as BMW’s. When you think of what the brand and its most legendary cars stand for, ‘The Ultimate Driving Machine’ perfectly encapsulates it.

    The 1978 Ford Falcon XC Cobra Register

    Book Review: The 1978 Ford Falcon XC Cobra Register

    The latest book by Ross Vasse, a leading authority on locally made Ford muscle cars, details every XC Falcon Cobra, living or deceased.

    Volkswagen Golf Mk2 'Changes' advertisement

    Classic TV: Volkswagen Golf Mk2

    Volkswagen has long been known for its creative advertising, and the Mk2 Golf gave the German marque the opportunity to deliver some of its finest work.

    More inAussie

    Ford Falcon S XR8 EB

    Retro Rides Presents Ford Falcon EA-ED: How Battling the VN Commodore Kickstarted the Greatest Era of Aussie Performance Cars

    Ford Australia’s belated response to Holden’s fuel-injected V8-powered VN Commodore kickstarted the greatest-ever era of Aussie performance cars.

    Ford Falcon S EA

    Retro Rides Presents Ford Falcon EA-ED: The Evolution of the Fifth-Gen Falcon

    Ford’s fifth-generation Falcon, the EA series, represented the biggest march forward in the Aussie Ford’s history. But quality problems put a stumble in its step.

    V2 Holden Monaro

    Holden Monaro designer Mike Simcoe to retire after 42 years with General Motors

    Australian automotive designer Mike Simcoe has announced his pending retirement after an illustrious 42-year tenure with at General Motors which saw him pen iconic designs for both our market and the rest of the world.

    Get The Latest

    Sign up for the latest in retro rides, from stories of restoration to community happenings.

    By clicking Sign Up you're confirming that you agree with our Terms and Conditions.