1981 Mitsubishi Minica vs. 2003 Proton Saloon
To start off, 2003 Proton Saloon is newer by 22 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 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Proton Saloon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Proton Saloon (82 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (29 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Proton Saloon should accelerate faster than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Proton Saloon weights approximately 380 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, 2003 Proton Saloon, 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, 2003 Proton Saloon (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (41 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Proton Saloon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mitsubishi Minica | 2003 Proton Saloon | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Proton |
| Model | Minica | Saloon |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 544 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 41 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 2390 mm |
