2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. Both 2004 Mazda 3 and 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer. (146 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 485 kg more than 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer (197 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 16 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10:01:00 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2635 mm |
