1996 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Hyundai Elantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Hyundai Elantra would be higher. At 2,350 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 57 kg more than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. 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, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. (166 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. 1996 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse has manual transmission. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Elantra | 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elantra | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1233 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2570 mm |
