2002 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer (276 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. (111 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 360 kg more than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 Mitsubishi Lancer (383 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer | 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Lancer | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 383 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1026 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
