2002 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,834 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer (163 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 275 kg more than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer.
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 Volkswagen Golf (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer. (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lancer | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1834 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2578 mm |
