1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1974 Mitsubishi Minica
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. (27 HP @ 8000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. (28 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1974 Mitsubishi Minica | |
| Make | Datsun | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 280 | Minica |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 358 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 28 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2010 mm |
