1968 Mazda R-100 vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mazda R-100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mazda R-100 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1968 Mazda R-100. (110 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1968 Mazda R-100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 515 kg more than 1968 Mazda R-100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mazda R-100 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 1968 Mazda R-100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mazda R-100. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mazda R-100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mazda R-100 | 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | R-100 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
