1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Mitsubishi Minica
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 17 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 1,909 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (29 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara, 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (40 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Mitsubishi Minica | |
| Make | Citroen | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Xsara | Minica |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 40 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2060 mm |
