1981 Mitsubishi Minica vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1981 Mitsubishi Minica is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (29 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 280 kg more than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (41 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mitsubishi Minica | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Minica | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 544 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 41 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 2410 mm |
