1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 1,768 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (93 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda Cosmo should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda Cosmo weights approximately 90 kg more than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (149 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. (113 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda Cosmo | 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Cosmo | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2390 mm |
