2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP) has 93 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 40 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. (113 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2390 mm |
