2003 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 3,188 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (246 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 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, 2003 Audi A3 (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 2003 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse has manual transmission. 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Audi | Mitsubishi |
| Model | A3 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3188 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
