2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (208 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (279 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 81 L |
