2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger
To start off, 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (242 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (163 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger should accelerate faster than 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Because 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Eclipse | Challenger |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2376 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
