Not so long ago, variable valve timing systems like Honda's VTEC and Mitsubishi's MIVEC were used to extract ludicrous horsepower from relatively small capacity engines. Now... October 21, 2011 by Antony Ingram
Even as Mistubishi's Lancer Evolution heads in a new direction for its next generation, the rest of the Lancer lineup is getting more in touch with its roots--or at least... August 9, 2011 by Nelson Ireson
You might not think the Dodge Neon SRT-4 is the epitome of safety--certainly not up to the standards of the carbon monocoque in the Pagani Zonda--but that didn't stop the... March 3, 2011 by Nelson Ireson 1
College kids dream of these two cars, the Subaru Impreza WRX STi and the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, constantly. They can do everything, like commuting to a brand-new job... December 2, 2010 by Samuel Spencer 3
This article was written by Amir Rosenbaum, the founder of racing auto parts manufacturer Spectre Performance. Mark Gillies, Car & Driver Executive Editor and... July 8, 2010 by KM Mediateam
Lancer buyers are likely looking for a small sport sedan, but on a very tight budget.
The Sentra is one of the cheapest ones; although it starts substantially higher than the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer, the base Sentra S comes a lot better equipped, with a six-speed manual, anti-lock brakes, and conveniences like steering-wheel controls, air conditioning, and keyless entry.
But the Sentra's interior doesn't feel as inviting and sporty as the Lancer's.
The Honda Civic is also a bit more expensive, but it includes a much more refined, more rev-happy, and more fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine, along with an equally slick-shifting manual transmission.
The base Jetta is another alternative; it also comes with a long list of standard features, and it stands out for its torquey five-cylinder engine, available electronic stability control, and rear side airbags.
The Impreza is another sporty sedan that might be considered; it isn't quite as fuel-efficient as the Civic or Sentra especially, but its torquey flat-four engine provides good performance, and it comes standard with all-wheel drive.