2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 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 7 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 255 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 Mitsubishi Eclipse (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Eclipse |
Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 141 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 163 Nm | 177 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4390 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |