2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (145 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 18 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2004 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RX-8 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
