2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 2,350 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse (146 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 410 kg more than 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Eclipse | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2350 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
