1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (16 cylinders), 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer (287 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 690 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer (407 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 323 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 16 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 287 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4495 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
