1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 24 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, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (102 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 72 kg more than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. 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, 2005 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 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer. (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda Cosmo | 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Cosmo | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 1170 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |
