1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1976 Mitsubishi Minica
To start off, 1997 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Hyundai Sonata (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. (29 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 730 kg more than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1997 Hyundai Sonata (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. (37 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 1976 Mitsubishi Minica | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Sonata | Minica |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 37 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2010 mm |
