1996 BMW M3 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 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (208 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (278 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | BMW | Mitsubishi |
| Model | M3 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
