1996 Suzuki Samurai 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 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (208 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 420 kg more than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (279 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse has automatic transmission and 1996 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1996 Suzuki Samurai 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 Suzuki Samurai | 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Suzuki | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Samurai | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2570 mm |
