2009 Kia Optima vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima 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 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Kia | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Optima | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
