2005 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse (146 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 92 kg more than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
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, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Kia | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Optima | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
