1976 Mitsubishi Minica vs. 2002 Renault Espace
To start off, 2002 Renault Espace is newer by 26 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Espace (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. (27 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Espace weights approximately 1266 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, 2002 Renault Espace, 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, 2002 Renault Espace (320 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. (28 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. 2002 Renault Espace has automatic transmission and 1976 Mitsubishi Minica has manual transmission. 1976 Mitsubishi Minica will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Renault Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mitsubishi Minica | 2002 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Renault |
| Model | Minica | Espace |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 359 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 28 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1776 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2740 mm |
