1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1972 Mitsubishi Minica
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1972 Mitsubishi Minica. (27 HP @ 8000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 595 kg more than 1972 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Mitsubishi Minica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, 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 Mazda 323 (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mitsubishi Minica. (28 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mitsubishi Minica. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1972 Mitsubishi Minica has manual transmission. 1972 Mitsubishi Minica will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1972 Mitsubishi Minica | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 323 | Minica |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 28 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2010 mm |
