1976 Mitsubishi Minica vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 33 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. (29 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 1777 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, 2009 Volkswagen Polo, 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 Volkswagen Polo (140 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. (37 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mitsubishi Minica | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Minica | Polo |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 471 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 37 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 530 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2470 mm |
