2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 2,348 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 170 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2348 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
