1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 10 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 2,378 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse (162 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 295 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, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 323 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2378 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
