2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. (93 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 208 kg more than 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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 MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2350 mm |
