Ford
Cougar
Mitsubishi
Eclipse
Ford Cougar vs Mitsubishi Eclipse: 2009 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Mitsubishi Eclipse comes out ahead of the Ford Cougar on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Cougar
Overall
Sentiment is highly fragmented and generation-dependent. For classic models (1967-1973), sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with owners describing them as "sweet," "cool," and "completely reliable" vehicles with desirable V8 engines and strong collector appeal, particularly for special editions like the 1968 GT-E 427 and 1970 Eliminator. For the final "New Edge" generation (1999-2002), sentiment is sharply negative to dismissive.
Best version to buy
For classic models, the 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E 427 and the 1970 Mercury Cougar Eliminator are highlighted as the most desirable, high-performance versions. For the final generation, no specific trim or version is recommended as "best." The V6 manual transmission is specifically criticized, with period reviews cited as recommending the automatic instead.
Known issues
- ⚠(Note: Issues are primarily attributed to the final 1999-2002 generation unless otherwise stated.)
- ⚠Unreliable electronics: pervasive electrical issues affecting various systems. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Window motor failures: power window motors frequently die and are expensive to replace. Frequency: recurrent.
Eclipse
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and model type. Feedback on the classic sport coupe models (primarily 2nd generation, 1995-1999) is overwhelmingly positive from enthusiasts, praising its turbocharged performance, all-wheel-drive capability, and tuner-friendly nature. In stark contrast, the modern Eclipse Cross SUV (2018+) receives mixed to negative sentiment, widely criticized for the controversial reuse of the Eclipse name on a crossover, perceived sluggish performance, and underwhelming driving dynamics.
Best version to buy
1995-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX: This turbocharged, all-wheel-drive version is consistently highlighted as the peak of the Eclipse lineage. It is celebrated for its potent performance, tunability, and iconic status within the enthusiast community.
Known issues
- ⚠**Classic Models (2nd Gen):** * Excessive turbo lag: noted as a significant drawback affecting drivability. Frequency: isolated. * Uncomfortable seats: mentioned as a negative point. Frequency: isolated.
- ⚠**Eclipse Cross (2018+):** * Perceived dangerously slow acceleration / sluggish throttle response: frequently cited, especially in reviews and for FWD models. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠**3rd/4th Gen Coupes (Isolated):** * Engine entering "limp mode" unpredictably: stranding owner. Frequency: isolated. * Chronic overheating in traffic: related to cooling system failure. Frequency: isolated.
The verdict
The Mitsubishi Eclipse is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Ford Cougar, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Mitsubishi Eclipse are a dealbreaker, the Ford Cougar is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Ford Cougar or the Mitsubishi Eclipse?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Mitsubishi Eclipse than the Ford Cougar. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Ford Cougar or the Mitsubishi Eclipse?
The Ford Cougar seats more passengers than the Mitsubishi Eclipse on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Ford Cougar is classed as a Coupe, the Mitsubishi Eclipse as a Cabriolet.
Which has better fuel economy, the Ford Cougar or the Mitsubishi Eclipse?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Ford Cougar or the Mitsubishi Eclipse?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Ford Cougar than the Mitsubishi Eclipse. See the known issues comparison above.