Two legendary sports cars that hailed from the 90s era were the Eagle Talon and the Mitsubishi Eclipse. Each car, in its own right, has become iconic for different reasons.
However, for any potential buyer or enthusiast, a critical question comes to mind: Eagle Talon or Mitsubishi Eclipse?
Which one should I opt for?
Let’s deep dive into both vehicles and highlight their pros and cons.
A Brief Comparative Table
| Aspects | Eagle Talon | Mitsubishi Eclipse |
| Design | Aggressive and sporty | Rounded and smooth |
| Brand Perception | Entry-level performance brand | Global, upscale sports compact |
| Interior | Functional and bare-bones | More refined and comfortable |
| Handling | Better due to AWD models | Can struggle due to FWD |
| Performance | High with turbocharged 4-cylinder engine | Same as Talon, but perceived as more reliable |
| Aftermarket Support | Wide range of aftermarket parts | Fewer options available |
| Reliability | Less reliable with more reported issues | Better overall reliability |
| Resale Value | Lower due to brand perception | Higher due to global recognition |
Understanding The Eagle Talon: A Powerhouse On The Road
The Eagle Talon was a part of the famed Diamond-Star Motors (DSM) trio, a joint venture between Chrysler and Mitsubishi. Launched in the 90s, this two-door hatchback coupe captured the hearts of many speed enthusiasts.
- Pros of the Eagle Talon
The Eagle Talon comes with a robust 2.0-liter, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Its all-wheel-drive (AWD) version is particularly known for its phenomenal grip on the road, especially on wet surfaces. It boasts of a horsepower range from 135 to 210, depending on the model.
Furthermore, it’s a fan favorite among car modifiers due to its flexibility and compatibility with a plethora of performance upgrades.
- Cons of the Eagle Talon
On the downside, the Eagle Talon had issues with reliability. Users reported problems related to the engine, transmission, and the turbo unit, making it less dependable than its Mitsubishi counterpart.
Its interior, though functional, lacks the charm and sophistication that other competitors offer.
The Charm of Mitsubishi Eclipse: A Sporty Sedan
The Mitsubishi Eclipse, the Talon’s counterpart, is another product of the DSM collaboration. It’s a front-engine, front-wheel drive sports compact car that has become synonymous with performance and style.
- Pros of Mitsubishi Eclipse
The Eclipse is powered by the same 2.0-liter, turbocharged engine, but the main advantage lies in its better overall build quality. It has been reported to be more reliable than the Talon, with fewer instances of mechanical issues.
The Eclipse also shines in terms of comfort and ergonomics, with an interior layout that feels more premium and user-friendly.
- Cons of Mitsubishi Eclipse
The main drawback of the Eclipse is its less impressive handling due to its front-wheel-drive setup. Compared to the Talon’s AWD, the Eclipse struggles with torque steer and can prove tricky to handle in wet or slippery conditions.
It’s also more challenging to find aftermarket parts for this model.
Key Differences Between Eagle Talon And Mitsubishi Eclipse
When it comes to the Eagle Talon and Mitsubishi Eclipse debate, it can be difficult to distinguish between the two. However, key differences set these twin sports cars apart.
Understanding these nuances will help you make an informed decision based on your personal requirements and desires.
- Design and Aesthetics
While both cars were born from the same DSM collaboration, their design and aesthetics were tailored to their respective target audiences. The Eagle Talon presented a more aggressive, sporty look with its ‘eagle eye’ headlights, sharper body lines, and bold rear spoiler.
This design was aimed at attracting a younger demographic passionate about performance and speed.
On the other hand, the Mitsubishi Eclipse adopted a more rounded, smoother design with a softer profile. It projected a somewhat luxurious appeal, making it more enticing for those seeking a blend of style, comfort, and performance.
- Brand Perception and Market Positioning
The Eagle brand was marketed mainly in North America and positioned as an entry-level performance brand by Chrysler. This made the Talon a favorite among young, first-time sports car buyers who were attracted by its performance specs and affordable price point.
Mitsubishi, a global brand known for its high-quality vehicles, positioned the Eclipse as a more upscale sports compact car. Its reputation for build quality and reliability played a crucial role in its appeal to a broader demographic.
This global recognition often translates into better resale value for the Eclipse.
- Interior Features and Comfort
Although both cars shared a similar layout inside, there were subtle differences in the interiors. The Eagle Talon had a more stripped-down, functional interior. Its primary focus was on delivering performance rather than luxurious comfort. Some users found the seats a bit firm and the overall layout lacking the sophisticated touch.
The Mitsubishi Eclipse, on the other hand, offered a more refined interior experience. The seats were more comfortable, the materials used were of better quality, and there was a general sense of a well-thought-out design.
The Eclipse’s interior was praised for its driver-centric layout and attention to detail, offering a more comfortable ride.
Though born out of the same joint venture, the Eagle Talon and Mitsubishi Eclipse cater to slightly different user needs. The Eagle Talon is perfect for those who value performance and are willing to invest time in maintaining and upgrading their vehicles.
On the other hand, the Mitsubishi Eclipse is the go-to car for individuals who seek a blend of performance, reliability, and comfort.
Also Read: Comparison of Honda Ridgeline RTL-E And Black Edition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, and no. While both vehicles were produced under the same joint venture between Mitsubishi and Chrysler, and share many mechanical parts, they have key differences, mainly in their styling and some of the equipment and features offered.
Not exactly. The Eagle Talon was a product of the partnership between Mitsubishi and Chrysler. Eagle was a brand under Chrysler’s umbrella.
Other than the Mitsubishi Eclipse, the Plymouth Laser was another car similar to the Eagle Talon. All three were born from the same DSM collaboration and shared many mechanical parts.
The Eagle Talon had its pros and cons. Its standout feature was its strong performance, especially the AWD models. However, it had a reputation for less reliability and a more basic interior compared to its rivals.
Final Thoughts
To conclude, choosing between the Eagle Talon and Mitsubishi Eclipse largely depends on your personal needs and preferences. Both cars, with their unique features and quirks, offer a slice of 90s nostalgia that’s increasingly hard to come by.
