2009 Mercury Mountaineer vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer

To start off, 2009 Mercury Mountaineer 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercury Mountaineer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercury Mountaineer (207 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercury Mountaineer should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer.

Because 2009 Mercury Mountaineer 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 Mercury Mountaineer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 Mercury Mountaineer (254 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercury Mountaineer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. 2009 Mercury Mountaineer 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 Mercury Mountaineer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Mercury Mountaineer 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer
Make Mercury Mitsubishi
Model Mountaineer Lancer
Year Released 2009 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4009 cc 1468 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 207 HP 83 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 254 Nm 122 Nm
Torque RPM 5100 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 6 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1640 mm