2002 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1981 Mitsubishi Minica
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 21 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 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (29 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 1025 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (41 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1981 Mitsubishi Minica | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 166 | Minica |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 41 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2060 mm |
