2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,468 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 377 kg more than 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RX-8 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1008 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2610 mm |
