2009 Nissan Frontier vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Nissan Frontier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Nissan Frontier would be higher. At 3,953 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (257 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Because 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 Nissan Frontier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Nissan Frontier (281 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Frontier | 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Nissan | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Frontier | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3953 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1763 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 15.7 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
