1997 Ford Ranger vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ranger. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Ranger weights approximately 70 kg more than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Because 1997 Ford Ranger 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 1997 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, both vehicles can yield 198 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ranger | 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Ranger | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2507 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4572 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2634 mm |
