1973 Mitsubishi Minica vs. 2012 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2012 Fiat Panda is newer by 39 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 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Fiat Panda (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1973 Mitsubishi Minica. (27 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1973 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Fiat Panda weights approximately 437 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, 2012 Fiat Panda, 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, 2012 Fiat Panda (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mitsubishi Minica. (28 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mitsubishi Minica | 2012 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Fiat |
| Model | Minica | Panda |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 359 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 28 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 516 kg | 953 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2310 mm |
