2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse

To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 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 2,147 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 370 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Mercedes-Benz C 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse
Make Mercedes-Benz Mitsubishi
Model C Eclipse
Year Released 2006 1997
Body Type Station Wagon Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2147 cc 1996 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 141 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 340 Nm 177 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1690 kg 1320 kg
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 4390 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2520 mm