1978 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse (265 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 677 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-2 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 1978 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse (355 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-2 | 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RX-2 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1637 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1351 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2576 mm |
