2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,827 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse (265 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 209 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 Mitsubishi Eclipse (355 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 1998 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse has manual transmission. 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Eclipse | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3827 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 265 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 62 L |
