2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 2,343 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 220 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (214 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RX-8 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2343 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 62 L |
