1997 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 2002 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. (111 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 455 kg more than 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Subaru Outback (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. 2002 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer | 2002 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Subaru |
| Model | Lancer | Outback |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1550 mm |
