1980 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,350 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 350 kg more than 1980 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mazda RX-7 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 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mazda RX-7 | 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RX-7 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2570 mm |
