2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 1998 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Suzuki Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Suzuki Vitara would be higher. At 2,349 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. (79 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 409 kg more than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Suzuki Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Suzuki Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 1998 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Suzuki |
| Model | Eclipse | Vitara |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2349 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2490 mm |
