2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (230 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse has manual transmission. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mitsubishi |
| Model | SLK | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 145 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
