2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 2,259 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer (163 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 375 kg more than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer.
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, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2259 cc | 1834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 220 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 | 1550 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
