2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 1997 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Mustang (212 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Mustang weights approximately 186 kg more than 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Mustang 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 1997 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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. 1997 Ford Mustang has automatic transmission and 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse has manual transmission. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 1997 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Ford |
| Model | Eclipse | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2348 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2580 mm |
