2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 2,349 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 320 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 Nm). This means 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Eclipse |
Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2349 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 214 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1405 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2570 mm |