1991 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer (267 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 555 kg more than 1991 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 323 | 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 323 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 267 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 74 L |
