1985 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer

To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1985 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1985 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 265 kg more than 1985 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1985 Mazda RX-7 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 1985 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer (198 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda RX-7.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Mazda RX-7 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer
Make Mazda Mitsubishi
Model RX-7 Lancer
Year Released 1985 2012
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2292 cc 2000 cc
Engine Type dual-disk rotary in-line
Horse Power 104 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 145 Nm 198 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1060 kg 1325 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4572 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1763 mm
Vehicle Height 1270 mm 1491 mm
Wheelbase Size 2430 mm 2634 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 59 L