1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 21 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 2,210 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (66 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda Cosmo weights approximately 190 kg more than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer.
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, 2002 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 (142 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda Cosmo | 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Cosmo | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2210 cc | 1467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2610 mm |
