2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
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 Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat 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 110 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 220 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse (278 Nm) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm). This means 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Eclipse | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
