2002 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda 323 (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 895 kg more than 2002 Mazda 323.
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 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 323 | 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 323 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 2055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
