1976 Mitsubishi Minica vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 30 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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. (29 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 810 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, 2006 Volkswagen New 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. (37 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mitsubishi Minica | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Minica | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 471 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 37 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 530 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2510 mm |
