2003 MCC Smart vs. 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2003 MCC Smart is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2003 MCC Smart. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2003 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 500 kg more than 2003 MCC Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 MCC Smart 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 MCC Smart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 MCC Smart. (112 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 MCC Smart.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 MCC Smart | 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | MCC | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Smart | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3440 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2520 mm |
