The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a sport compact car that was in production between 1989 and
2011. A convertible body style was added for the 1997 model year. It was named after an
unbeaten 18th-century English racehorse which won 26 races, and has also been rebadged and
sold as the Eagle Talon and the Plymouth Laser captive imports through Mitsubishi Motors'
close relationship with the Chrysler Corporation. Their partnership was known as Diamond-Star
Motors, or DSM, and the vehicle trio through the close of the second-generation line is
sometimes referred to by the moniker "DSM" among enthusiast circles. In Japan, the first
two generations were sold at a specific Japanese retail chain called Mitsubishi Car Plaza.
The Eclipse was officially marketed in North America, Oman, South Korea, the Philippines,
Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, and China. At the end of August 2011, the final Eclipse
rolled off the assembly line, and was auctioned off, the proceeds donated to charity.
The Eclipse has undergone four distinct generations: the first two generations share the automobile
platform with the Eagle Talon, and the Plymouth Laser, and share parts, while the third generation
shared a redesigned platform with the Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Stratus. During May 2005,
the fourth, and final, generation Eclipse was introduced, abandoning the Chrysler platform
used in the first three generations and replacing it with the PS platform.
First Generation Timeline
Overview
The first generation Mitsubishi Eclipse was marketed as an entry to mid-level four-cylinder
sports coupe. Four trim levels were available: the lowest three were front-wheel drive and
the highest was all-wheel drive. The top FWD and the AWD model were equipped with turbocharged
engines. The first generation Eclipse underwent minor
styling changes throughout its production; 1992–1994 models have updated sheetmetal
and are easily distinguishable from earlier model years. The most notable of these changes
is that the 1990-1991 models have pop-up headlights, whereas the later model years do not. The
Eclipse was revised for the 1995 model year as the second generation.
The Plymouth Laser model was dropped after the 1994 model year, leaving only the Eclipse
and Talon to continue for the second generation. Trim levels
The Eclipse was available in five trim levels during its first-generation production run.
AWD models were not available until halfway through the first model year.
Eclipse: Base FWD model equipped with a 92 hp naturally aspirated engine 1.8 L 8-valve
SOHC 4G37 engine Eclipse GS: Upgraded FWD model with slightly
more equipment Eclipse GS DOHC: Upgraded FWD model equipped
with a 135 hp naturally aspirated 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC 4G63A non-turbocharged variant
of the 4G63T engine** Eclipse GS DOHC AWD: Equipped with a 150 hp
4G63 16 valve non-turbocharged engine All were only available with 5-speed manual transmission
and without rear limited slip differential. Sunroof, cruise control, ABS, central locking
and A/C were in base. Eclipse GS Turbo: Top FWD model equipped with
a 180-195 hp* turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC 4G63T engine
Eclipse GSX: AWD model equipped with a 180-195 hp* turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC 4G63T engine
* The 1990 manual transmission turbocharged GST was rated at 190 hp, whereas the 1990
GSX manual turbo was rated at 195 hp. This was for the purpose of offsetting the additional
weight of the AWD mechanism. However, 1991 and later years of both turbo models standardized
on the 195 hp version 4G63T. The automatic models were rated at 180 hp due to smaller
fuel-injectors and turbocharger. ** 1990–1994 model years Eclipse, Talon
and Laser did not come with the 420a engine, which was not added until the second generation.
These models varied significantly in drivetrains and available options, and included some variance
in appearance, as higher trim lines added different front and rear fascia panels and
surrounding trim, with the GSX model getting a notably different styling package from the
others. Drivetrain
The basic driveline layout of the Eclipse is a transverse-mounted 4-cylinder Mitsubishi
4G37 or 4G63 engine situated on the left-hand side of the car driving an automatic or manual
transmission on the right-hand side. AWD models have a different transmission which includes
a limited-slip center differential and output shaft for a transfer case, which drives the
rear differential and half-shafts. The 4G37 and 4G63 engines are both inline-four
gasoline engines. The 4G63 is composed of an iron engine block and aluminum cylinder
head and is equipped with balance shafts for smooth operation. The turbocharged version
of the 4G63 is equipped with a lower compression ratio and oil squirters under the pistons
in order to better cope with the stress and extra heat caused by forced induction.
There is also a difference between rear axle/rear ends on all-wheel-drive models. 1990-early
1992 cars have three bolts attaching the axle to the wheel hub. Late 1992–1994 have larger-diameter
axles and attach to the hub with bigger, 4-bolt axle cups.
Awards The Eclipse Turbo was on Car and Driver magazine's
Ten Best list for 1989–1992. Second Generation
Overview The second generation car maintained the market
focus of the first generation car, but had a major update in styling and had different
engines between trim levels. New to the line was a convertible model, the Spyder, introduced
in 1996. The convertible was available in two trims: the GS and the GS-T. The former
was powered by the non-turbo 4G64 engine, and the latter by the turbo 4G63. The GSX
hardtop model was also powered by this engine. There was no convertible model powered by
the Chrysler 420a, nor was there a convertible all-wheel-drive model.
The turbocharged engine option continued as the 4G63, but was modified for more power
as compared to the previous generation. The non-turbo equipped car had two different engines
depending on the market they were produced for. The US version engines were producing
140 hp, found only in the hardtop RS and GS trims, was a modified version of the Chrysler
Neon engine, the 420a, manufactured by Chrysler and delivered to and installed at the Diamond
Star Motors facility. The European market engines were naturally aspirated 4G63 with
141 hp. The Talon was discontinued in 1998, along
with the rest of the Eagle line, leaving only the Eclipse for sale during the 1999 model
year. As the width dimension and larger engines
were offered to Japanese consumers, it was now regarded as a luxury car, as this generation
no longer complied with Japanese Government dimension regulations, and Japanese consumers
were liable for annual taxes as a result, which affected sales.
A special version of the Eclipse, called the "10th Anniversary OZ Rally", was sold at the
end of the 1999 model run with unique 16-inch wheels with the OZ Racing logo, though made
by Enkei. It also included the leather interior package, accented exhaust exit, and hoop-style
spoiler that were normally offered on some turbocharged models. The special edition package
was only offered with the 420A engine. A unique version of the 2G Eclipse sold in
some European countries. It used a normally aspirated Mitsubishi 4G63 motor, similar to
what was available in the 1G, unique sideview mirrors, and unique amber rear turn signals.
1997 Facelift A minor style revision was applied for the
1997 model year. The front grille opening was given a more aggressive profile. The headlights
were given a sharper slant on the inner edges, and the previous all-chrome fixture interior
changed to a black interior with chrome reflector inserts. The driving lights were revised from
a reflector type to a smaller projection type. The rear bumper cap was altered and had the
reverse lights restyled and moved out into the bumper fascia, away from their original
central position by the license plate bracket. The interior color choices also changed from
blue, and grey in 1995–1996 model years to black/grey, tan/black, and grey in the
1997–1999 model years. The black leather interior option was only available in 1999;
the package included all seats, door inserts, and center console armrest.
Trim levels The Eclipse was available in seven trim levels:
Base [Only available in 1996.5], RS, GS, GS Spyder, GS-T, GS-T Spyder, and GSX.
Eclipse RS: Base FWD model equipped with a 140 hp 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Chrysler 420a
engine Eclipse GS: Equipment upgraded FWD model equipped
with a 140 hp 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Chrysler 420A engine. The European variant of the GS
had a naturally aspirated, DOHC 16 valve 4G63 engine producing 150 HP with FWD
Eclipse GS Spyder: Convertible FWD model equipped with a 141 hp 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC Mitsubishi
4G64 engine Eclipse GS-T: Hardtop FWD model equipped with
a 210 hp turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Mitsubishi 4G63 engine
Eclipse GS-T Spyder: Convertible FWD model equipped with a 210 hp turbocharged 2.0 L
16-valve DOHC Mitsubishi 4G63 engine Eclipse GSX: AWD model equipped with a 210 hp
turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Mitsubishi 4G63 engine
The models had different trim accoutrements: Base - No tachometer, standard antenna, No
rear defroster, no driving lights, 14-inch steel wheels with covers or center caps, vinyl
trimmed seats, rear drum brakes RS - Tachometer, 14-inch alloy wheels, optional
spoiler GS - Power antenna, driving lights, cruise
control, body coloured door handles, 15-inch alloy wheels, 16-inch alloy wheels, lower
body cladding, spoiler, rear windshield washer GS Spyder - Power antenna, driving lights,
cruise control, body coloured door handles, 16" alloy 5 spoke wheels, lower body cladding,
spoiler, double tipped stainless steel exhaust GS-T - 16" Alloy 5 spoke wheels, Grey painted
panel around lower body paneling, "low rise" spoiler, "high rise" spoiler, double tipped
stainless steel exhaust GS-T Spyder - 16" Alloy 5 spoke wheels, double
tipped stainless steel exhaust, "low rise" spoiler for all years.
GSX - 17-inch wheels after 1997, 1995–96 cars had 16-inch alloys, Grey painted panel
around lower body paneling, double tipped stainless steel exhaust, "low rise" spoiler(95-96),
larger spoiler, vented rear rotors with dual piston front calipers.
Drivetrain The basic driveline layout of the Eclipse
is a transverse-mounted 4-cylinder Chrysler 420A, Mitsubishi 4G64 or 4G63 engine. The
Mitsubishi motors are mounted in the same orientation as for the first generation cars.
The 420a-powered cars had the engine mounted on the right side of the car, and further
back in the chassis. AWD models had a similar transmission to the first generation car.
The second generation GSX also had a stronger carrier/differential when equipped with the
limited slip option. Engines
All motors are four-cylinder gasoline engines. All have iron blocks with aluminum cylinder
heads. The 4G63/4G64 engines retain the balance shafts for smoother operation, while the 420a
does not use them. The 1995–1999 turbo engines were given an increased compression ratio
of 8.5:1, up from 7.8:1, and a smaller turbo, a Garrett T25 in place of the previous Mitsubishi
TD04-13G and TD05-14B. This was done to minimize turbo lag, which was an undesirable trait
for mass-market appeal in the U.S. The 4G63 engines found in 1990–1994 models
have a 60 mm throttle body compared to the 1995–1999 MY's 52 mm. The intake ports
on the head and runners of the intake manifold are also larger. They also have larger crankshaft
bearing journals to allow better lubrication. Mitsubishi Motors quietly updated its 4G63
engine in 1998 and 1999. The crankshaft is more precisely shaved and cut compared to
previous years. It is identical to that used in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, which
was not yet sold in North America until 2003. The thrust bearings have been revised to a
"split" type to allow better lubrication and self-alignment with the crankshaft. It also
had improved tuning & functionality, thanks to a new ECU, which was similar to Lancer
Evolution ECUs. Third Generation
Overview The Eclipse underwent a change into its third
generation in 1999, closely applying the Mitsubishi SST design study which debuted at the 1998
North American International Auto Show. It was the first concept vehicle exhibited by
Mitsubishi at an auto show in the U.S. The 4G63 was replaced by two powertrain options,
a 147 hp 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC 4-cylinder 4G64 and a 205 hp 24v SOHC 3.0 L V6. AWD
was no longer an option. The suspension setup was adjusted to provide a softer and more
compliant ride quality. The third generation Eclipse shared its powertrain
with the 8th generation Galant. In late 2001, power of the GT trim was lowered to 200 hp
as a result of tightened emission standards forcing MMNA to adopt the California emissions
standards for all variants of the car, rather than selling independent 'Fed Spec' and 'Cali
Spec' versions. In mid-2002, the GTS trim was introduced for
the 2003 model year. This vehicle included an engine with a 10:1 compression ratio, revised
camshaft profile and an improved Mitsubishi Variable Induction Management air intake system
that gave the car an extra 10 hp and a slightly improved power curve. The 2003–2005 GTS
and GTS Spyder shared the new engine while GT models retained the 200 hp powertrain.
From 2003 to 2005, the Eclipse Spyder V6 was sold in a right-hand drive version in Japan.
As this generation no longer complied with Japanese government dimension regulations
it was regarded as an expensive luxury car due to additional annual taxes from Japanese
consumers. When the larger Mitsubishi GTO was discontinued in 2001, this generation
became the only sports car Mitsubishi offered to Japanese consumers.
2003 facelift With the introduction of the 2003 GTS model,
the Eclipse saw minor changes including a sleeker front bumper with slotted fog lights,
as well as a recoloring of the tail lights. On the interior, the gauge face changed, and
the door panels were redesigned. The 2003 model year also saw the introduction of newly
designed chrome, five-spoke wheels for the GT and GTS trims.
Trim levels The Eclipse was available in 7 trim levels:
RS, GS, GS Spyder, GT, GT Spyder, GTS, and GTS Spyder. All trim levels came with an automatic
tilt and retracting sunroof. All models were FWD. The GTS trims were introduced in 2003,
the RS trim was dropped for the 2005 model year, and for that year, the Remix Edition
package was introduced, only available on the GS and GS Spyder 4-cylinder with the same
GS wheels now painted chrome, Remix Edition Badges, 6 Disc CD Changer and leather upholstery
from some of the GT V6 models and all GTS V6 models, the first in stock 4-cylinder Eclipse
history. Eclipse RS: Base model hardtop FWD equipped
with a 154 hp 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 4G64 engine; automatic RS models were only
3G Eclipse without Mitsubishi's "sportronic" select-shift option
Eclipse GS: Hardtop FWD model equipped with a 154 hp 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 4G64
engine Eclipse GS Spyder: Convertible FWD model equipped
with a 154 hp 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 4G64 engine
Eclipse GT: Hardtop FWD model equipped with a 200 hp 3.0 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G72
engine Eclipse GT Spyder: Convertible FWD model equipped
with a 200 hp 3.0 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G72 engine
Eclipse GTS: Hardtop FWD model equipped with a 210 hp 3.0 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G72
engine with Mitsubishi Variable Induction Management
Eclipse GTS Spyder: Convertible FWD model equipped with a 210 hp 3.0 L 24-valve SOHC
Mitsubishi 6G72 engine with MVIM ECU trims for GT models
Fed Spec: Fed Specs only affect 2000 and some 2001 models, Manufactured from August 1999
to late October 2000, these GTs came with 205 hp and 205 ft·lbf. The Fed Spec GT
is most recognizable for having one catalytic converter and two O2 sensors, with one sensor
before the cat and the other after. Cali Spec: Cali Specs in 2000 were primarily
shipped to California because of the more stringent emission laws; although other areas
of North America received them as well. The Eclipse GT line was switched over for cost
reasons to the Cali Spec, so only one version of the GT would be manufactured. Cali Specs
came with 5 hp less and 5 ft·lbf less. Cali Spec emissions control are three catalytic
converters and four O2 sensors. After each exhaust header is a sensor followed by a pre-cat
then the main cat after y-pipe then two more O2 Sensors.
Engines The third generation Eclipse utilized two
distinct Mitsubishi engines: The SOHC 4G64 2.4 L 16-valve four-cylinder and SOHC 6G72
3.0 L 24-valve V6. Both engines use cast iron blocks with aluminum cylinder heads. The four-cylinder,
found in the RS, GS and GS Spyder trims, used a 9:1 compression ratio and produced an output
of 154 hp and 163 ft-lbs throughout all years. Despite being a Sirius engine, it shares
more components with the 4G63 found in the 2003-2004 Lancer Evolution than the four-cylinder
found in previous generations of Eclipse. The 3.0 L V6, however, found in GT and GT
Spyder models, produced 205 hp in Fed Spec between 2000-2001 and 200 hp in all GT models
in Cali Spec, all years with a static compression ratio of 9:1. The 3.0 L V6 was improved for
the GTS and GTS Spyder, using a revised camshaft profile, raised compression ratio of 10:1
and variable-length MVIM intake manifold. This engine produced 210 hp. Despite the
naming similarities, the SOHC 6G72 used in the third generation Eclipse was completely
different from the motor used in the 3000GT, the latter using coil packs instead of a distributor,
mounted on the opposite side of the engine bay and dual-camshaft heads.
Safety The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
has determined crash test ratings of Eclipse of different model years:
2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse EV The Mitsubishi Eclipse EV is a prototype electric
vehicle with a lightweight electric motor and lithium-ion batteries in the chassis of
a third generation Eclipse. It is powered by manganese lithium-ion batteries made by
Japan Storage Battery, which have 65% reduced charging time over nickel-hydrogen batteries.
It participated in the 2001 Shikoku EV Rally, a 780 km circuit around the perimeter of
Shikoku, Japan, where it drove in excess of 400 km on a single battery charge.
Fourth Generation Overview
Another substantial styling revision was introduced, with the new model taking some of the profile
from the second generation model but maintaining a front fascia consistent with Mitsubishi's
current corporate styling features. Drivetrain features of the new model include a 263 hp
3.8 L MIVEC V6 for the GT trim, 2009 and newer models have 265 hp. The GS has a 162 hp
2.4 L MIVEC four-cylinder, both derived from the Mitsubishi PS platform family, with which
the Eclipse shares many mechanical components. Like the 2004 Galant and third generation
Eclipse, the new Eclipse is FWD only, although a concept model has been produced by Mitsubishi
and Ralliart with a MillenWorks designed hybrid-electric AWD platform, the 4G63 engine from the Lancer
Evolution, and more aggressive body styling with imitation carbon fiber accents. The V6
produces 263 hp and 260 ft·lbf of torque. The fourth-generation Spyder Eclipse was released
for the 2007 model year at the North American International Auto Show.
Trim levels For the 2010 model year in the U.S., its primary
market, the Eclipse was available in five trim levels: GS, GS Sport Spyder, GS Sport,
GT, and GT Spyder. In Mexico, the GT Spyder is known as the Eclipse Convertible. In Canada,
the GT trim is known as the GT-P. Eclipse GS: Base FWD model equipped with a
162 hp 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 4G69 engine
Eclipse GS Sport Spyder: Convertible FWD model equipped with a 162 hp 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC
Mitsubishi 4G69 engine Eclipse GS Sport: FWD model equipped with
a 162 hp 2.4 L 16-valve 4-cylinder MIVEC Engine, and additional features.
Eclipse GT: Hardtop FWD model equipped with a 263 hp 3.8 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi
6G75 engine, 2009–2012 models have 265 hp Eclipse GT Spyder: Convertible FWD model equipped
with a 263 hp 3.8 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G75 engine, 2009–present models have 265 hp
The models and standard / optional equipment: GS Standard- Choice of five-speed manual or
a four-speed Sportronic automatic transmission, a 140-watt Mitsubishi CD/MP3-compatible audio
system with six speakers, 17-inch alloy wheels, an anti-theft immobilizer, auto-off halogen
headlamps, power windowsmirrors, air conditioning, a split fold-down rear seat, two 12-volt accessory
outlets, anti-lock brakes, a rear spoiler, and a six airbag safety system.
Options Include - Sun & Sound package with a power sunroof is paired with a 650-watt
Rockford Fosgate audio system. Boasting nine speakers including a 10-inch trunk-mounted
subwoofer, a 6-CD in-dash changer, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls, the package
also includes a center display with outside temperature and compass readings and an electrochromic
rear-view mirror. A four piece body kit comes as an optional "aero kit" package for all
models. GS Spyder - available for sale for the 2007
model year. Options Include - GS Deluxe Leather Package:
Leather front seating surfaces. Heated front seats. Heated side mirrors. Outside temperature
indicator and compass in center dash display. GT Standard- Choice of six-speed manual or
a five-speed Sportronic automatic transmission, a 140-watt Mitsubishi CD/MP3-compatible audio
system with six speakers, 17-inch alloy wheels, an anti-theft immobilizer, auto-off halogen
headlamps, fog lamps, power windowsmirrors, air-conditioning, a split fold-down rear seat,
two 12-volt accessory outlets, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, a rear spoiler, dual-stage six
airbag safety system, traction control, a front strut tower bar, and a center display
with outside temperature and compass readings. Options Include- Premium Sport Package with
18 in seven-spoke alloy wheels, leather front seating surfaces, a power sunroof, an eight-way-adjustable
driver's seat, alloy pedals, heated front seats, heated door mirrors, automatic dimming
rear-view mirror, air-conditioning and a 650-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system with nine speakers,
including a 10-in trunk-mounted subwoofer, a 6-CD/MP3-compatible in-dash changer, steering
wheel-mounted audio controls. GT Spyder - available for sale for the 2007
model year. Options Include - GT Premium Sport Package:
18-inch Alloy wheels. Leather front seating surfaces. 6-way power driver's seat. Heated
front seats. Heated side mirrors. Aluminum pedals. Automatic climate control. Wind Deflector
2009 facelift
The Mitsubishi Eclipse was given a minor facelift for the 2009 model year, the front fascia
changed the fog lights and deleted the triangle housing the "three diamond" logo used to sit
on in the grille; the rear fascia changed the "Eclipse" insignia from an indent to raised
silver letters. An option to add a dual exhaust and projector H.I.D. headlamps also became
available. The V6 engine now rated at 265 hp and 262 lb-ft torque. It was unveiled at
the 2008 Chicago Auto Show. 2011 facelift
The 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse featured a "blackout" roof, similar to the 1990 version. For 2011,
Mitsubishi lowered the suspension of Eclipse about half an inch, which created a lower
center of gravity. Mitsubishi also added a rear backup camera and Bluetooth hands free
calling to the Sun and sound package. In the GS trim, the car gets the same 18-inch wheels
and blackout front end as the GT model called the GS Sport.
Final Model Year
For the 2012 model year, the Mitsubishi Eclipse receives three changes: Brake override logic,
a clear lip spoiler on the GT trim, and one new exterior color. This was the final model
year, albeit a short run because production ended in August 2011.
The last Eclipse to roll off the assembly line was built in August 2011, painted Kalapana
Black, its color was chosen from by members of Mitsubishi’s Facebook community, who
picked from a historical Eclipse color palette. This was the only Eclipse equipped with both
the 3.8L/265 hp V-6 engine and the commemorative SE package, as well as special 18-inch Dark
Argent alloy wheels and one of a kind graphics. It is also built with a sunroof, leather interior,
650W Rockford Fosgate 9-speaker audio system with Sirius XM, hands free Bluetooth phone
interface, rear-view camera, and HID headlights. The car was auctioned off by Mecum Auctions
in St. Charles, IL on September 17, 2012, for $35,000. Proceeds went to the Japanese
Red Cross to aid victims of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.
Grand total Eclipse production was 906,876 units.
Motorsport The Eclipse, and its Chrysler-branded counterparts,
have seen competition in Sports Car Club of America events.
In 2004 and 2005, Greg Collier won the NASA Super Unlimited class national title in a
yellow FWD Plymouth Laser. In 2009 and 2010, a convertible Eclipse GST
driven by Matt Andrews and Andrew Brilliant won the Super Lap Battle Limited championship
in Willow Springs, California. In 2012, a heavily built and tuned Mitsubishi
Eclipse piloted by Mark Rybníček won the Czech Hill Climb championship.
Brent Rau has won three world drag racing championships using an Eclipse; IDRC, NDRA
and NHRA. Many other notable names have also claimed big wins piloting Eclipses for drag
racing use.
Notes
References "Mitsubishi Eclipse". Edmunds.com. Retrieved
May 2005. "Mitsubishi Eclipse review". auto.consumerguide.com.
Retrieved 2005-07-12. External links
Mitsubishi Motors North America official web site