1973 Mitsubishi Minica vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1973 Mitsubishi Minica. (27 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 724 kg more than 1973 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mitsubishi Minica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3, 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mitsubishi Minica. (28 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mitsubishi Minica. 2003 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1973 Mitsubishi Minica has manual transmission. 1973 Mitsubishi Minica will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mitsubishi Minica | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mazda |
| Model | Minica | 3 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 359 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 28 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 516 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2850 mm |
