2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 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 (164 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer.
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, 1998 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 (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
