2011 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mazda |
| Model | Lancer | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4582 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1516 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2634 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 50 L |
