2007 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 2,350 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse (146 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 145 kg more than 2007 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (241 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 100 mm |
| 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 | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
