2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Mazda RX-8 (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse has manual transmission. 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
Model | RX-8 | Eclipse |
Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 141 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 177 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4390 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |