2012 Volkswagen GTI vs. 1989 Mitsubishi Minica
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. (30 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 753 kg more than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mitsubishi Minica is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mitsubishi Minica will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. 1989 Mitsubishi Minica has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Mitsubishi Minica will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen GTI | 1989 Mitsubishi Minica | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mitsubishi |
| Model | GTI | Minica |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 548 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4213 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1786 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1501 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2270 mm |
