2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 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 2,350 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 145 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 48 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
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, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2350 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
