2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 2,350 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (145 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 110 kg more 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, 2001 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, 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 62 L |
