1976 Mitsubishi Minica vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. (27 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 310 kg more than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. (28 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1977 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mitsubishi Minica | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Minica | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 359 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 28 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2410 mm |
