2003 MG TF vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 MG TF. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 MG TF would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 MG TF (158 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 MG TF should accelerate faster than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 135 kg more than 2003 MG TF.
Because 2003 MG TF 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 MG TF. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer (198 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 MG TF. (174 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 MG TF.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 MG TF | 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | MG | Mitsubishi |
| Model | TF | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4572 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2634 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 59 L |
