1986 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1996 Toyota MR2 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Toyota MR2 (74 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. (57 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Toyota MR2 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 1996 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1996 Toyota MR2 (131 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. (108 Nm). This means 1996 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Toyota |
| Model | Lancer | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2410 mm |
