2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,827 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse (265 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 280 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.
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, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse (355 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
