1981 Mitsubishi Minica vs. 2008 Renault Grand Espace
To start off, 2008 Renault Grand Espace is newer by 27 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 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Grand Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Grand Espace (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (29 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Grand Espace should accelerate faster than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Grand Espace weights approximately 1290 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, 2008 Renault Grand Espace, 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, 2008 Renault Grand Espace (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (41 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Grand Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mitsubishi Minica | 2008 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Renault |
| Model | Minica | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 544 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 41 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 2880 mm |
