1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,376 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse (147 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 380 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm). This means 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 323 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2376 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
