1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 (146 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 155 kg more than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mitsubishi |
| Model | E | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
