2003 Lexus IS vs. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 2,350 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (145 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 110 kg more than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Lexus IS 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse has automatic transmission and 2003 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2003 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Lexus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | IS | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
