1997 Chrysler Viper vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chrysler Viper would be higher. At 7,984 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (146 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 185 kg more than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Chrysler Viper 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 1997 Chrysler Viper. 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, 1997 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 406 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chrysler Viper | 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Viper | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7984 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
