1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 48 kg more than 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
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, 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Eclipse | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2578 mm |
