Overview:
When it comes to high-performance cars, two Japanese automakers that immediately come to mind are Mitsubishi and Subaru. Both companies have a long history of producing some of the most exciting and capable vehicles on the road, and their rivalry has been fierce for decades. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of these two companies, the cars that have defined their rivalry, and how they stack up against each other today.
A Brief History of Mitsubishi and Subaru:
Mitsubishi and Subaru are two of Japan’s oldest car manufacturers, with both companies having been founded in the early 20th century. Mitsubishi began as a shipbuilding company in 1870, but it wasn’t until the 1917 launch of the Model A that the company entered the automotive industry. Subaru, on the other hand, was founded in 1953 as a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, and its first car, the Subaru 1500, was released in 1954.
Mitsubishi Well known for manufacturing Sports cars:
Throughout the 20th century, both companies continued to grow and expand their offerings. Mitsubishi became known for its sports cars, such as the Lancer Evolution, while Subaru gained a reputation for its all-wheel-drive vehicles, including the Impreza and Forester. Today, both companies offer a wide range of vehicles, from small hatchbacks to SUVs and pickup trucks.
Defining Cars in the Mitsubishi-Subaru Rivalry:
The Mitsubishi-Subaru rivalry has been defined by several iconic Japanese cars over the years. For Mitsubishi, the Lancer Evolution is undoubtedly the most famous. First introduced in 1992, the Lancer Evolution quickly became a cult favorite among car enthusiasts thanks to its powerful engine, nimble handling, and rally heritage.
The Evo continued to evolve over the years, with ten different versions released between 1992 and 2016. Today, the Lancer Evolution is a sought-after collectible, with prices for well-maintained examples often exceeding their original sticker price.
Subaru WRX Production:
For Subaru, the WRX is the car that defined the brand’s rivalry with Mitsubishi. Like the Lancer Evolution, the WRX has a rich rally heritage, and it’s known for its all-wheel-drive system, which provides excellent traction and handling in all weather conditions. The WRX has been in production since 1992, and it’s available in a variety of configurations, from the base WRX to the more powerful STI (Subaru Tecnica International) model. Like the Lancer Evolution, the WRX has a loyal following of enthusiasts who appreciate its blend of performance and practicality.
Comparison between Mitsubishi vs Subaru:
So, how do Mitsubishi and Subaru stack up against each other today?
Performance:
In terms of pure performance, it’s hard to beat Lancer Evolution. The most recent version, the Evo X, featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produced 291 horsepower and 300 lb.-ft of torque. The WRX STI, by comparison, has a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that makes 310 horsepower and 290 lb.-ft of torque. Both cars are extremely capable, but the Evo has a slight edge in terms of acceleration and handling.
All-Wheel Drive:
Both Mitsubishi and Subaru are known for their all-wheel-drive systems, but Subaru has a clear advantage in this area. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is one of the most advanced in the industry, providing excellent traction and handling in all conditions. Mitsubishi’s all-wheel-drive system is also impressive, but it’s not as refined as Subaru’s.
Reliability:
Both of the cars have a reputation for building reliable cars, but Subaru has the edge in this area. According to Consumer Reports, Subaru consistently ranks higher than Mitsubishi in terms of reliability, with models like the Outback and Forester receiving high marks for their dependability.
Price:
Mitsubishi:
When it comes to price, Mitsubishi tends to be slightly more affordable than Subaru. For example, the base model Mitsubishi Outlander starts at around $26,000.
Subaru:
The base variant of the Subaru Forester starts at around $25,000. However, both companies offer a range of vehicles at different price points, so it’s possible to find a model from either brand that fits your budget.
Which Brand is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between Mitsubishi and Subaru comes down to personal preference. Both companies have a lot to offer, and their rivalry has produced some of the most exciting cars on the road. If you’re looking for pure performance, the Lancer Evolution is hard to beat. If you want a car that’s practical and reliable, the Subaru Forester is a great choice.
And if you’re looking for a car that blends performance and practicality, both the Mitsubishi Evo and Subaru WRX are excellent options.
Conclusion:
The battle between both cars are raging for decades, with both companies pushing each other to its performance and innovation. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, there’s no denying that these two brands have left an indelible mark on the automotive industry. So, the next time you see a Mitsubishi or Subaru on the road, take a moment to appreciate the legacy of these two legendary carmakers.