1997 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer (94 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 1064 kg more than 1997 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 121 | 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 121 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 2055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2610 mm |
