2003 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 1987 Nissan 300 ZX
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Nissan 300 ZX (171 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 240 kg more than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Nissan 300 ZX 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 1987 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1987 Nissan 300 ZX (234 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. (176 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1987 Nissan 300 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer | 1987 Nissan 300 ZX | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Nissan |
| Model | Lancer | 300 ZX |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2530 mm |
