2008 BMW X3 vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (146 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 360 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 BMW X3 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 2008 BMW X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2008 BMW X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 2008 BMW X3 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 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | BMW | Mitsubishi |
| Model | X3 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
