2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 2,349 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 250 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Eclipse |
Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2349 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 214 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 100 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1405 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2570 mm |