1980 Lotus Eclat vs. 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Eclat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Eclat would be higher. At 2,378 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 160 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 436 kg more than 1980 Lotus Eclat.
Because 1980 Lotus Eclat 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 1980 Lotus Eclat. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1980 Lotus Eclat (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Eclat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Eclat | 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Eclat | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2378 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1104 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 67 L |
