1974 Mitsubishi Minica vs. 2011 Daihatsu Copen
To start off, 2011 Daihatsu Copen is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Daihatsu Copen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Daihatsu Copen (86 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Daihatsu Copen should accelerate faster than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Daihatsu Copen weights approximately 390 kg more than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Daihatsu Copen, 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, 2011 Daihatsu Copen (120 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. (37 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Daihatsu Copen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mitsubishi Minica | 2011 Daihatsu Copen | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Daihatsu |
| Model | Minica | Copen |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 359 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 37 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3010 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2230 mm |
