2009 Kia Sportage vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer

To start off, 2009 Kia Sportage is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,974 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Sportage (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Sportage weights approximately 280 kg more than 1988 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, 2009 Kia Sportage (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. 2009 Kia Sportage has automatic transmission and 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Sportage will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Kia Sportage 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer
Make Kia Mitsubishi
Model Sportage Lancer
Year Released 2009 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1974 cc 1468 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 139 HP 83 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 188 Nm 122 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1285 kg 1005 kg
Vehicle Length 4360 mm 4190 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1700 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2390 mm