1998 Honda Accord vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda Accord would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse (265 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1998 Honda Accord. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 272 kg more than 1998 Honda Accord. 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, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse (355 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Honda Accord. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Honda Accord. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse has automatic transmission and 1998 Honda Accord has manual transmission. 1998 Honda Accord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Honda Accord | 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Honda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Accord | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1637 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1351 mm |
