2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP) has 115 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 392 kg more than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mazda RX-8 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. (113 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RX-8 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1467 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2390 mm |
