1989 Holden Nova vs. 1981 Mitsubishi Minica
To start off, 1989 Holden Nova is newer by 8 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 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Holden Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Holden Nova (81 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (29 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Holden Nova weights approximately 475 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, 1989 Holden Nova, 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, 1989 Holden Nova (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (41 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Holden Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Holden Nova | 1981 Mitsubishi Minica | |
| Make | Holden | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Nova | Minica |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 29 HP |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 41 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2060 mm |
