2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 2,341 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 225 kg more than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Mitsubishi Lancer (220 Nm) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm). This means 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2341 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
