1981 Mitsubishi Minica vs. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1987 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Volkswagen Jetta (53 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (29 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 335 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, 1987 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1987 Volkswagen Jetta (97 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (41 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1987 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mitsubishi Minica | 1987 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Minica | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 544 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 41 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 2480 mm |
