1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,376 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse (147 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 330 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. 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, 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse (220 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm). This means 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 323 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2376 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
