1996 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 5 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), 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (145 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 150 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
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, 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Audi | Mitsubishi |
| Model | A3 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
