1971 Fiat 124 vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse

To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse (162 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 124. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 124.

Because 1971 Fiat 124 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 1971 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 124. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse has automatic transmission and 1971 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1971 Fiat 124 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Fiat 124 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse
Make Fiat Mitsubishi
Model 124 Eclipse
Year Released 1971 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1197 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 162 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 89 Nm 219 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 4-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 4050 mm 4582 mm
Vehicle Width 1630 mm 1834 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1351 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2576 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 38 L 67 L