2003 Mazda Washu vs. 1974 Mitsubishi Minica
To start off, 2003 Mazda Washu is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Washu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Washu (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. (27 HP @ 8000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Washu should accelerate faster than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Washu weights approximately 906 kg more than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Washu, 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 Mazda Washu (283 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. (28 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Washu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. 2003 Mazda Washu has automatic transmission and 1974 Mitsubishi Minica has manual transmission. 1974 Mitsubishi Minica will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda Washu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Washu | 1974 Mitsubishi Minica | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Washu | Minica |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 358 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 28 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2010 mm |
