1996 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 8 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), 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 259 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, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2004 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. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Audi | Mitsubishi |
| Model | A3 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 81 L |
