2009 BMW 120 vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (168 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 BMW 120 (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | BMW | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 120 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
