1976 Mitsubishi Minica vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 25 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (180 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. (27 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 803 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, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. (28 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 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 | 2001 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Minica | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2001 |
| 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 | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 28 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1313 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2520 mm |
