2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 2,350 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (146 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 162 kg more than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Eclipse | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2350 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4775 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
