1994 Mazda 323 vs. 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 1994 Mazda 323 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. (93 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mazda 323 weights approximately 328 kg more than 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Mazda 323, 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, 1994 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1994 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mazda 323 | 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 323 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2350 mm |
