1998 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 2012 Ford Focus
To start off, 2012 Ford Focus is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Focus (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Focus weights approximately 341 kg more than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. 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, 2012 Ford Focus (198 Nm @ 4450 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. 2012 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer | 2012 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Ford |
| Model | Lancer | Focus |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4450 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1337 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4359 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1824 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1468 mm |
