1972 Mitsubishi Minica vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP) has 28 more horse power than 1972 Mitsubishi Minica. (31 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1972 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 425 kg more than 1972 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mitsubishi Minica is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 Mitsubishi Minica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1983 Volkswagen Passat (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mitsubishi Minica. (32 Nm @ 6500 RPM). This means 1983 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mitsubishi Minica | 1983 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Minica | Passat |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 359 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 31 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 515 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2560 mm |
