2012 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 9 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (145 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 75 kg more than 2003 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, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer (226 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse has automatic transmission and 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer | 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Lancer | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| 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 | 168 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4572 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1491 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2634 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 62 L |
