2011 Kia Optima vs. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 7 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (145 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 178 kg more than 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Kia Optima | 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Kia | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Optima | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2400 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1583 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4844 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1831 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1455 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2797 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 81 L |
