2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse (265 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 399 kg more than 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer 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 2002 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Mitsubishi Eclipse (355 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer. 2002 Ford Explorer 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. 2002 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Ford |
| Model | Eclipse | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3827 cc | 4009 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 265 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.4 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 15.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 14 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 85 L |
