1976 Mazda 818 vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda 818 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 94 more horse power than 1976 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 598 kg more than 1976 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mazda 818 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 1976 Mazda 818. 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 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mazda 818 | 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 818 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1002 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1374 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2576 mm |
