1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (146 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 470 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse has manual transmission. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mitsubishi |
| Model | S | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4965 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2570 mm |
