2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 386 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 830 kg more than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 338 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mitsubishi |
| Model | E | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2390 mm |
