2008 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer (152 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer (198 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mazda |
| Model | Lancer | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 48 L |
