2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 2,350 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 295 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 Nm). This means 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Eclipse |
Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2350 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 214 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 100 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1405 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2570 mm |