Mitsubishi
Eclipse
Subaru
SVX
Mitsubishi Eclipse vs Subaru SVX: 2009 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Mitsubishi Eclipse comes out ahead of the Subaru SVX 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
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.
SVX
Overall
Sentiment is overwhelmingly positive regarding the vehicle's unique design, rarity, and historical significance as a bold departure from Subaru's mainstream lineup. The vehicle is consistently described as "cool," "interesting," and a "future classic" with a distinctive Giorgetto Giugiaro-designed exterior featuring its signature split side windows. The 3.3L flat-six engine producing 230 horsepower is noted as a strong powerplant for its era.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to distinguish between model years or trims (LS, LSi, etc.). Owner discussions refer to the model generically.
Known issues
- ⚠Automatic transmission (4EAT) failure: Prone to premature failure, lacks adequate cooling for the vehicle's weight, considered the car's primary mechanical weakness. Manual swaps are a common modification. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠High maintenance costs and parts scarcity: Expensive to maintain, parts are becoming rare and difficult to find, leading to high repair bills and downtime. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠General reliability and "gremlins": Described as a "maintenance nightmare," with oil leaks being typical. Prone to various age-related failures. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Mitsubishi Eclipse is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Subaru SVX, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Mitsubishi Eclipse are a dealbreaker, the Subaru SVX is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Mitsubishi Eclipse or the Subaru SVX?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Mitsubishi Eclipse than the Subaru SVX. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Mitsubishi Eclipse or the Subaru SVX?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Mitsubishi Eclipse is classed as a Cabriolet, the Subaru SVX as a Coupe, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Mitsubishi Eclipse or the Subaru SVX?
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 Mitsubishi Eclipse or the Subaru SVX?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Subaru SVX than the Mitsubishi Eclipse. See the known issues comparison above.