1981 Mitsubishi Minica vs. 2011 Mazda 2
To start off, 2011 Mazda 2 is newer by 30 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 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 2 (95 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (29 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 2 weights approximately 535 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, 2011 Mazda 2, 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, 2011 Mazda 2 (205 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (40 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mitsubishi Minica | 2011 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mazda |
| Model | Minica | 2 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 546 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 565 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 2489 mm |
