1988 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP) has 50 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Because 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. (113 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mazda |
| Model | Lancer | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1468 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 124 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2329 mm |
