2008 Mazda 5 vs. 1983 Mitsubishi Minica
To start off, 2008 Mazda 5 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 5 (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1983 Mitsubishi Minica. (27 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1983 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 5 weights approximately 1040 kg more than 1983 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Mitsubishi Minica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 5, 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, 2008 Mazda 5 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mitsubishi Minica. (40 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 5 | 1983 Mitsubishi Minica | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 5 | Minica |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 40 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2060 mm |
