1975 Mitsubishi Minica vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1975 Mitsubishi Minica. (27 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1975 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 1225 kg more than 1975 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Mitsubishi Minica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra, 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, 2009 Saturn Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Mitsubishi Minica. (29 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Mitsubishi Minica | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Saturn |
| Model | Minica | Astra |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 359 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 29 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2620 mm |
