1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 17 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (102 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda Cosmo should accelerate faster than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda Cosmo weights approximately 102 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 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 (167 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda Cosmo | 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Cosmo | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
