1978 Mazda 818 vs. 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer (98 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 350 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 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 1978 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 818 | 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 818 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2610 mm |
