1989 Mitsubishi Minica vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (141 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. (30 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 810 kg more than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mitsubishi Minica is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Saturn ION. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mitsubishi Minica will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1989 Mitsubishi Minica has manual transmission. 1989 Mitsubishi Minica will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Saturn ION will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mitsubishi Minica | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Saturn |
| Model | Minica | ION |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 548 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 30 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 640 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2630 mm |
