2004 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2004 BMW 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | BMW | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 318 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
