2008 Acura RDX vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2008 Acura RDX is newer by 5 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, 2008 Acura RDX (240 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (146 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Acura RDX should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Acura RDX weights approximately 45 kg more than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Acura RDX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Acura RDX 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, 2008 Acura RDX (353 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Acura RDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 2008 Acura RDX has automatic transmission and 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse has manual transmission. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Acura RDX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Acura RDX | 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Acura | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RDX | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
