2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Mitsubishi Minica
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 22 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (29 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 965 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica. (41 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1981 Mitsubishi Minica | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mitsubishi |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Minica |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 41 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2060 mm |
