2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse (210 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 244 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (315 Nm) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (279 Nm). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Eclipse | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1226 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
