1996 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,350 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 265 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. 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, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Audi | Mitsubishi |
| Model | A3 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
