2003 Mazda 6 vs. 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,376 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse (163 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6.
Because 2003 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 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, 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 6 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2376 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 67 L |
