Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into a classic JDM debate: the Mazda RX-7 versus the Mitsubishi Eclipse. Both of these cars have a special place in automotive history, capturing the hearts of tuners, racers, and everyday drivers alike. But which one is truly better? Let's break it down.

A Tale of Two Icons

The Mazda RX-7 and the Mitsubishi Eclipse emerged as prominent figures in the sports car scene, each boasting unique characteristics and a dedicated following. The RX-7, known for its rotary engine and sleek design, offered a distinct driving experience that set it apart from its contemporaries. On the other hand, the Eclipse, with its turbocharged engine and aggressive styling, appealed to those seeking raw power and performance. Both cars represented the pinnacle of Japanese automotive engineering, leaving an indelible mark on the automotive landscape.

Engine and Performance: Rotary vs. Turbocharged

When it comes to what's under the hood, these two are worlds apart. The Mazda RX-7 is famous (or perhaps infamous) for its rotary engine, specifically the 13B. This compact powerhouse delivers smooth, high-revving performance, making it a blast to drive on winding roads. The rotary engine is known for its unique power delivery and distinctive sound. However, it also has a reputation for being less reliable than traditional piston engines, requiring more maintenance and care. Owners often joke (or maybe they're serious) about carrying extra oil and knowing a good rotary mechanic.

In contrast, the Mitsubishi Eclipse typically features a turbocharged inline-four engine. The 4G63T engine, found in the second-generation Eclipse GSX, is legendary for its tunability and robust power output. This engine is known for its strong low-end torque and the ability to handle significant horsepower upgrades. While not as exotic as the rotary, the turbocharged Eclipse offers a more conventional and arguably more reliable performance platform. The turbocharged engine provides a punchy acceleration that's addictive, making it a favorite for drag racing and street performance.

Performance Figures Compared

To get a clearer picture, let's look at some numbers. A stock RX-7 (FD generation) typically produces around 255 horsepower, while a second-generation Eclipse GSX with the 4G63T can deliver around 210 horsepower from the factory. However, the Eclipse has a much higher ceiling for power upgrades. With the right modifications, it's relatively easy to extract significantly more power from the 4G63T, often exceeding 400 horsepower. The RX-7, while also tunable, can be more complex and expensive to modify for similar power gains.

Ultimately, the choice between rotary vs. turbocharged comes down to personal preference and priorities. If you're looking for a unique driving experience and don't mind the extra maintenance, the RX-7's rotary engine is hard to beat. But if you want a more reliable and easily tunable platform, the Eclipse's turbocharged engine is the way to go.

Design and Styling: Sleek vs. Aggressive

The Mazda RX-7 boasts a sleek, aerodynamic design that has aged incredibly well. Its curves and low-slung profile give it a timeless appeal. The RX-7's design is all about elegance and sportiness, with a focus on smooth lines and a minimalist aesthetic. The pop-up headlights add to its iconic status, making it instantly recognizable.

On the other hand, the Mitsubishi Eclipse features a more aggressive and angular design. Especially in its second generation, the Eclipse has a bold stance and muscular lines that exude power. The Eclipse's styling is more assertive and in-your-face, reflecting its turbocharged performance. While subjective, many find the Eclipse's design to be more modern and attention-grabbing.

Interior and Features

Inside, the RX-7 offers a driver-focused cockpit with a simple and functional layout. The seats are supportive, and the gauges are easy to read. While not luxurious, the interior is well-designed and provides a comfortable driving experience. The focus is clearly on performance, with minimal distractions.

The Eclipse's interior is more contemporary, with a more sculpted dashboard and more features. Depending on the trim level, you could find features like leather seats, premium sound systems, and sunroofs. While not as spartan as the RX-7, the Eclipse's interior is still focused on the driver, with well-placed controls and comfortable seating.

Handling and Driving Dynamics: Balanced vs. Raw

The Mazda RX-7 is renowned for its exceptional handling and balance. Its lightweight chassis and near 50/50 weight distribution make it incredibly nimble and responsive. The RX-7 is a joy to drive on twisty roads, offering precise steering and excellent grip. Its suspension is well-tuned, providing a comfortable ride without sacrificing performance. The RX-7's handling is often described as telepathic, responding instantly to driver inputs.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse, particularly the GSX model with all-wheel drive, also offers impressive handling. The AWD system provides excellent traction, especially in wet or slippery conditions. The Eclipse's handling is more raw and aggressive than the RX-7, with a focus on power delivery and grip. While not as refined as the RX-7, the Eclipse is still a capable performer on the road and track.

Driving Experience

The driving experience of the RX-7 is unique and engaging. The rotary engine's smooth power delivery and high-revving nature make it a thrill to drive. The RX-7's lightweight chassis and responsive handling make it feel like an extension of the driver. However, the RX-7 can be demanding to drive, requiring attention and skill to extract its full potential.

The Eclipse offers a more straightforward and accessible driving experience. The turbocharged engine provides strong acceleration, and the AWD system inspires confidence. The Eclipse is easier to drive quickly, making it a great choice for both experienced and novice drivers. While not as refined as the RX-7, the Eclipse is still a fun and rewarding car to drive.

Reliability and Maintenance: A Critical Factor

This is where the Mitsubishi Eclipse generally shines. The turbocharged engine is robust and reliable, especially if properly maintained. Parts are readily available and relatively affordable, making maintenance less of a headache. While issues can arise, the Eclipse is generally considered to be a more reliable car than the RX-7.

The Mazda RX-7, with its rotary engine, requires more specialized care. The rotary engine is known for its unique quirks and potential issues, such as apex seal failure. Maintenance can be more frequent and expensive, and finding a qualified mechanic can be challenging. While not inherently unreliable, the RX-7 requires more diligence and attention to keep it running smoothly.

Long-Term Ownership

If you're planning on owning one of these cars long-term, reliability and maintenance are critical considerations. The Eclipse offers a more practical and predictable ownership experience. The RX-7, while rewarding to own, requires more commitment and willingness to deal with potential issues. Factor in the cost of parts, labor, and potential downtime when making your decision.

Community and Aftermarket Support: A Strong Following

Both the Mazda RX-7 and the Mitsubishi Eclipse have strong and passionate communities. Online forums, clubs, and events provide a wealth of knowledge and support for owners. Whether you're looking for technical advice, performance upgrades, or simply a place to share your passion, you'll find a welcoming community for both cars.

The aftermarket support for both cars is also extensive. A wide range of performance parts, accessories, and tuning options are available, allowing you to customize your car to your liking. Whether you're looking to improve horsepower, handling, or aesthetics, you'll find plenty of options to choose from.

DIY Potential

If you enjoy working on your own car, both the RX-7 and the Eclipse offer plenty of DIY potential. However, the Eclipse is generally easier to work on, with a more conventional engine and layout. The RX-7 can be more challenging, requiring specialized tools and knowledge. If you're new to car maintenance, the Eclipse might be a better starting point.

Pricing and Availability: A Matter of Scarcity

The Mitsubishi Eclipse tends to be more affordable than the Mazda RX-7. Because RX-7 were produced in lower numbers, its condition is generally higher than the Eclipse. The RX-7 has become a collector's item, driving up prices. The Eclipse, while still desirable, is more readily available and generally more budget-friendly.

Availability can also be a factor. Finding a clean, unmolested RX-7 can be challenging, as many have been modified or neglected over the years. Eclipses are more common, but finding a well-maintained example is still important. Be prepared to do your research and inspect any potential purchase thoroughly.

Which One is Right for You?

So, which car is better? It really depends on your priorities and preferences. The Mazda RX-7 is a unique and iconic sports car that offers an unparalleled driving experience. Its rotary engine, sleek design, and exceptional handling make it a true enthusiast's car. However, it requires more maintenance and can be less reliable than the Eclipse.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a more practical and accessible sports car that offers strong performance and a tunable platform. Its turbocharged engine, aggressive styling, and available AWD make it a great choice for both street and track use. While not as exotic as the RX-7, the Eclipse is a reliable and rewarding car to own.

Ultimately, the best way to decide is to drive both cars and see which one you connect with. Consider your budget, driving style, and maintenance capabilities. Whether you choose the RX-7 or the Eclipse, you'll be getting a piece of automotive history that will provide years of enjoyment.

Happy driving, guys!