1998 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 1976 Mitsubishi Minica
To start off, 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 22 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 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. (27 HP @ 8000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 486 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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 Mitsubishi Lancer (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. (28 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer | 1976 Mitsubishi Minica | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Lancer | Minica |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 28 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
