2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 220 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
