Cars Similar to Mitsubishi Eclipse – Top Rated Picks

When shopping for a ride similar to the Mitsubishi Eclipse, you’re likely looking for a perfect blend of performance, handling, and luxury features. You’re in luck! Cars like the Acura RSX-S, Honda Prelude SH, Nissan Sentra SER Spec V, and Toyota Celica GT-S offer similar thrills. Each has its strengths, from refined engines to agile handling, and some even rival the Eclipse in terms of performance. Want to know more about these contenders?

Key Takeaways

• Acura RSX-S is a close rival, offering a blend of performance, and luxury features similar to the Mitsubishi Eclipse.
• Honda Prelude SH offers a more agile handling and premium feel, making it a worthy alternative to the Eclipse.
• Nissan Sentra SER Spec V is a more affordable option with similar performance profile and handling dynamics as the Mitsubishi Eclipse.
• Toyota Celica GT-S is a close match, but may appeal less to taller individuals due to its smaller cabin space.
• Mitsubishi FTO is another compact sports car with a front-wheel-drive platform and various engine options, making it similar to the Eclipse.

Compare Design, Practicality, and Price

When comparing the design, practicality, and price to its rivals, you’ll find that the Eclipse stands out in its class.

Its aggressive design features a sleeker front grille and more angular lines, making it a head-turner.

Inside, you’ll appreciate the spacious cabin and larger trunk space, ideal for taller drivers.

Priced competitively, the 2003 model starts at around $18,000, making it an attractive option for those seeking a sporty ride without breaking the bank.

Engine, Transmission, and Fuel Consumption

You’ll find the Eclipse offered a range of engines, from a 1.8-liter with 90 hp to a turbocharged 2-liter with up to 195 hp.

In terms of transmission, you’d options like a 4-speed automatic, a 5-speed manual, and a 5-speed manual with reported fuel economy of up to 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.

The engine and transmission combo you chose significantly impacted fuel consumption, with the 2-liter turbocharged model reportedly achieving 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

Engine Options

The Mitsubishi Eclipse’s engine lineup is designed to cater to different driving preferences, boasting a range of options that vary in power output, transmission type, and fuel efficiency.

You’ll find:

1. A 1.8-liter engine producing 90 hp
2. A 2-liter turbocharged engine with up to 195 hp, including a four-wheel drive option
3. A naturally aspirated 2-liter V6 MIVEC engine, producing 197 hp, available on the top-of-the-line trim
4. Engine options achieving varying fuel consumption, with the 2-liter turbocharged engine estimated at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

Transmission Choices

Transmission options play a significant role in the driving experience, and the Eclipse’s lineup is no exception.

You’ll have a choice between a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic transmission. The 5-speed manual is paired with a 2.4-liter engine, producing 162 horsepower and achieving an estimated 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.

The 4-speed automatic is paired with the same engine, but with slightly different fuel consumption estimates. Your transmission choice also affects towing capacity, with the 5-speed manual allowing for a maximum of 1,000 pounds and the 4-speed automatic allowing for 1,500 pounds.

Driving, Safety, and Ownership

You’ll find that cars similar to the Mitsubishi Eclipse deliver a smooth on-road performance, thanks to their well-tuned suspension systems.

In terms of fuel efficiency, these vehicles boast impressive ratings, making them a great choice for daily commutes.

As you delve into your options, you’ll discover that these cars offer a satisfactory ownership experience, backed by reliable warranties and affordable maintenance costs.

On-Road Performance

Behind the wheel, drivers experience a 7.0/10 driving rating, 7.5/10 comfort rating, and 8.0/10 interior rating, as reported by Edmunds.

This suggests the Eclipse provides a decent driving experience, comfort, and interior quality.

In terms of performance, you can expect:

1. A 0-60 mph time of around 7.5 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 15.5 seconds, making it decent for its class.
2. Handling and braking performance are notable, allowing for a smooth and stable ride.

Compared to the Honda Accord, the Eclipse has a slightly lower driving rating, but makes up for it with its sportier vibe.

Fuel Efficiency Rating

As you consider the Eclipse’s on-road performance, its fuel efficiency rating also deserves attention.

With a rating of 8.5 out of 10, the Eclipse boasts an average cost per mile of $0.66, comparable to its rival, the Honda Accord Coupe.

In fact, the Eclipse slightly outperforms the Nissan Sentra SER Spec V, which has an average cost per mile of $0.71.

Its fuel economy is on par with the Acura RSX-S, and significantly better than the Dodge Stratus Coupe, with an average cost per mile.

Ownership Experience

While considering the Eclipse’s fuel efficiency, its ownership experience is just as vital to evaluate.

As you weigh your options, keep in mind the following aspects of the Eclipse Cross’s ownership experience:

1. Weight and Clearance: With a curb weight of 3,406 lb. and a ground clearance of 8.5 in., you’ll notice its impact on driving experience and safety.
2. Turning Circle: A 34.8 ft. turning circle may affect its maneuverability and parking experience.
3. Cost per Mile: With an average cost per mile of $0.66, you’ll want to factor this into your ownership costs.
4. Overall Rating: While Edmunds doesn’t rate the ownership experience, it received an overall rating of 7.8/10 from other reviewers.

Expert Verdict on Similar Cars

When scouring the market for a Mitsubishi Eclipse equivalent, you’ll likely come across a quartet of cars that mirror its performance, and luxury features to varying degrees.

The Acura RSX-S is the closest rival, offering a similar blend of performance, handling, and luxury features.

The Honda Prelude SH is another strong competitor, offering a more agile handling experience and a more premium feel.

If you’re on a budget, the Nissan Sentra SER Spec V is a more affordable alternative, while the Toyota Celica GT-S is a close match, but may appeal less to taller individuals.

Compare Features of Eclipse Cross

You’re likely wondering what sets the Eclipse Cross apart from its competitors.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross offers a unique combination of features that make it stand out in the compact SUV market.

1. Engine Options: A 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 152 hp and a 2.2-liter diesel engine producing 148 hp.
2. Transmission: A 6-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with an 8-speed Sport mode.
3. Fuel Efficiency: A fuel consumption of around 5.5 liters per 100 kilometers on the highway.
4. Safety Features: Forward collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning, earning it a 5-star safety rating.

Cars Similar to Mitsubishi Eclipse

If you’re in the market for a car similar to the Mitsubishi Eclipse, several options stand out from the crowd.

As an owner or enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the Honda Integra Type R, which offers a premium alternative with a higher price tag.

The Mitsubishi FTO is another compact sports car that boasts a front-wheel-drive platform and various engine options.

Rival cars like the Celica GT-S and Nissan Sentra SER Spec V offer similar performance profiles and handling dynamics.

For an all-around better car, consider the RSX-S, featuring a refined engine, premium features, and better handling capabilities.

Rewards for Reviewing Your Car

Your car review can yield tangible benefits.

By sharing your experience, you’ll not only help others make informed purchasing decisions but also reap rewards.

1. Influence car manufacturers: Your feedback can shape future models and improvements.
2. Get noticed by industry experts: They may feature your review in publications or online forums.
3. Earn incentives and discounts: Some manufacturers and dealerships offer exclusive deals for reviewers.
4. Come join the discussion: Engage with fellow enthusiasts, share tips, and learn from others’ experiences.

Mitsubishi FTO: A Front-Wheel Drive Sports Car

The Mitsubishi FTO, a compact sports car produced from 1994 to 2000, boasts a front-wheel-drive platform and well-designed styling that sets it apart from its contemporaries.

You’ll find a range of engines, including a 1.8-liter and 2-liter V6, with the latter producing 197 hp in the top-of-the-line MIVEC model.

The FTO received a facelift in 1997, adding features like central locking and air conditioning.

Although rare, the FTO isn’t expensive to buy, but finding one is the challenge.

If you can’t find one, the bigger 3000GT remains a choice.

Mitsubishi’s Eclipse: Sometimes Forgotten

Mitsubishi’s Eclipse, another front-wheel-drive compact sports car, shares some similarities with its sibling, albeit with distinct design cues and powertrain options.

You’ll find:

1. A range of engines, from a 1.8-liter with 90 hp to a 2-liter with 135 hp, and a top model with a turbocharged version boasting up to 195 hp.
2. A stylish design that received an extensive refresh in 1994, coinciding with the arrival of the FTO.
3. A production run from 1994 to 2000, with a facelift and improved equipment in 1997, adding features like central locking, air conditioning, and leather-wrapped accouterments.
4. A great alternative to the pricier Honda Integra Type R, with its turbocharged version offering a competitive edge in terms of power and performance.

Rival Cars and Comparisons

As you plunge into the world of compact sports cars, rival cars emerge, each with their unique strengths and weaknesses.

The RSX-S offers an all-around better features and performance.

The Celica GT-S rivals the Eclipse, with similar performance but suffers from rear sway, starting to lose from a roll.

The Accord V6 coupes outperform the 3G Eclipses, while the Spec V‘s limited-slip differential makes them quicker, but with a less desirable design.

Ultimately, the Nissan Sentra SER Spec V is a rival car often compared to the Eclipse in terms of performance and features.

Conclusion

As you weigh your options, the Eclipse’s rivals linger, waiting to be driven. The RSX-S‘s refined engine and premium features beckon, while the Celica GT-S’s agile handling whispers sweet nothings. The Spec V‘s affordability and the Eclipse’s performance linger, refusing to be forgotten. The question remains: which one will you choose, and what secrets will it reveal on the open road?