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 |
