M422A1 Specs

1959-1962 M422A1

The Mighty Mite was designed by the Mid-America Research Corporation, as a combat vehicle suitable for airlifting and manhandling. It was originally prototyped starting in 1946, and was further developed during the fifties by a team including four of the original Bantam developers. Starting in 1959 some 3,922 were built by American Motors for the U.S. Marine Corps. The M422's unique features included aluminum body, differential-mounted brakes, and an AMC V-4 air-cooled engine. At over $5000 per unit it was relatively expensive, which may account for the small production total. 

The Mighty Mite was a tiny vehicle of just 65 in. wheelbase (the M422) or 71 in. (for the M422A1). It was designed for operation in all kinds of highways, roads and terrain and had a fording depth of 21 in., which could be increased to 60 in. with a special kit.

Power came from a four cylinder V-type air-cooled engine and was transmitted by four speed gearbox, either to the rear wheels only or to front and rear simultaneously, by means of three limited-slip differentials

The suspension was of the independent type, providing full articulation. Longitudinal 1/4 elliptic leaf springs were mounted in a unique way which virtually eliminated roll-overs.