1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1990 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata (89 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1990 Mitsubishi Lancer. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1990 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 35 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mitsubishi Lancer. (113 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1990 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2390 mm |
