2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,341 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 355 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer (220 Nm) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm). This means 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2341 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
