2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse (162 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 131 kg more than 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse (220 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2580 mm |
