1996 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 2009 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2009 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 4,664 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota 4Runner (260 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. (111 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 304 kg more than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Toyota 4Runner 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 2009 Toyota 4Runner. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2009 Toyota 4Runner (415 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. 2009 Toyota 4Runner has automatic transmission and 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota 4Runner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer | 2009 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Toyota |
| Model | Lancer | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 4664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 415 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1810 mm |
