2005 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse

To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 BMW M3 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 2005 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2005 BMW M3 (337 Nm) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (177 Nm). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW M3 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse
Make BMW Mitsubishi
Model M3 Eclipse
Year Released 2005 1996
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3244 cc 1996 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 320 HP 141 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 337 Nm 177 Nm
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1690 kg 1320 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4390 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2740 mm 2520 mm