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The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a sport compact car manufactured and marketed by
Mitsubishi The is a group of autonomous Japanese multinational companies in a variety of industries. Founded by Yatarō Iwasaki in 1870, the Mitsubishi Group traces its origins to the Mitsubishi zaibatsu, a unified company that existed from 1870 to 194 ...
over four generations for model years 1989-2011. A
convertible A convertible or cabriolet () is a Car, passenger car that can be driven with or without a roof in place. The methods of retracting and storing the roof vary across eras and manufacturers. A convertible car's design allows an open-air drivin ...
body style was added during the 1996 model year. The first two generations were marketed simultaneously as
rebadged In the automotive industry, rebadging (also known as badge engineering, an intentionally ironic misnomer in that little or no actual engineering takes place) is a form of market segmentation used by automobile manufacturers around the world. T ...
variants, including the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser — and were a byproduct of
Mitsubishi Motors is a Japanese Multinational corporation, multinational Automotive industry, automobile manufacturer headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, Japan.
and
Chrysler Corporation FCA US, LLC, doing business as Stellantis North America and known historically as Chrysler ( ), is one of the " Big Three" automobile manufacturers in the United States, headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is the American subsidiary of ...
's close alliance. Their partnership in turn gave rise to
Diamond-Star Motors Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. Manufacturing Division (originally, Diamond-Star Motors) was an automobile-manufacturing joint venture between the Chrysler Corporation and Mitsubishi Motors.
(DSM). In Japan, the first two generations were sold at a specific Japanese retail chain called '' Mitsubishi Car Plaza''. The third, 2000–2005 generation shared an extended wheelbase variant of their platform with the
Chrysler Sebring The Chrysler Sebring ( ) is a mid-size automobile manufactured and marketed by Chrysler from 1995 to 2010 in convertible (three generations), sedan (two generations), and coupe (two generations) body styles. In each generation, Chrysler itself de ...
and
Dodge Stratus The Dodge Stratus is a mid-size car introduced by Dodge and Chrysler in December 1994, built on the four-door sedan Chrysler JA platform. Immediately recognized for its design and performance, the Stratus, alongside its platform mates, the Ply ...
. In May 2005, the fourth, and final generation Eclipse was introduced, replacing the Chrysler platform used for the third generation with the PS platform. According to Mitsubishi, the Eclipse was named after an unbeaten 18th-century English racehorse that won 18 races in a row and then retired. At the end of August 2011, the final Eclipse was manufactured and auctioned for charity. In 2017, Mitsubishi resurrected the Eclipse name on a
compact crossover Compact crossover SUV is an automobile classification used mainly in North America to describe a segment of crossover SUV, a type of sport utility vehicle, between subcompact crossover SUV and mid-size crossover SUV. By the late 2010s, the se ...
vehicle, called the Eclipse Cross.


First generation (D21A/D22A/D27A; 1989)


Overview

The first-generation Mitsubishi Eclipse was marketed as an entry to the mid-level four-cylinder sports coupe segment. It was developed for the North American market, where sales began in the autumn of 1989. Japanese sales of cars imported from Illinois began in 1990, and in late 1991 limited European sales began. At first, the car was only sold in Austria, Sweden, and Switzerland, but other countries were gradually added. Five trim levels were available; all were
front-wheel drive Front-wheel drive (FWD) is a form of internal combustion engine, engine and transmission (mechanics), transmission layout used in motor vehicles, in which the engine drives the front wheels only. Most modern front-wheel-drive vehicles feature ...
except the GSX which was
all-wheel drive An all-wheel drive vehicle (AWD vehicle) is one with a powertrain capable of providing power to all its wheels, whether full-time or on-demand. Types The most common forms of all-wheel drive are: ;1x1 : All unicycles Reflects one axle with ...
. The GS Turbo and GSX were equipped with turbocharged engines. The profile was low and sleek; the hood line was so low that it needed a bump to clear the engine's cam cover. Hogsten 1991, p. 44 The first-generation Eclipse underwent minor styling changes during its production; the car received updated, more ovoid sheet metal for 1992. The most notable is that the pre-facelift models have
pop-up headlights Hidden headlamps, also commonly known as pop-up headlamps, pop-up headlights, flip-eye headlamps, or hideaway headlights, are a form of automotive lighting and an automotive styling feature that conceals an automobile's headlamps when they are no ...
, whereas 1992 through 1994 models have exposed aerodynamic headlights. The original Eclipse was replaced by the second generation model for the 1995 model year.


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 model equipped with a
naturally-aspirated A naturally aspirated engine, also known as a normally aspirated engine, and abbreviated to N/A or NA, is an internal combustion engine in which air intake depends solely on atmospheric pressure and does not have forced induction through a turboc ...
1.8 L 8-valve
SOHC An overhead camshaft (OHC) engine is a piston engine in which the camshaft is located in the cylinder head above the combustion chamber. This contrasts with earlier overhead valve engines (OHV), where the camshaft is located below the combus ...
4G37 I4 engine *Eclipse GS: Upgraded model with more equipment *Eclipse GS DOHC: Upgraded model equipped with a naturally aspirated 2.0 L 16-valve
DOHC An overhead camshaft (OHC) engine is a piston engine in which the camshaft is located in the cylinder head above the combustion chamber. This contrasts with earlier overhead valve engines (OHV), where the camshaft is located below the combus ...
Mitsubishi Sirius engine The Mitsubishi Sirius or 4G6/4D6 engine is the name of one of Mitsubishi Motors' four series of inline-four automobile engines, along with Astron, Orion, and Saturn. The 4G6 gasoline engines were the favoured performance variant for Mitsubishi. ...
; a naturally aspirated variant of the 4G63T I4 engine1990–1994 model years Eclipse, Talon and Laser did not come with the 420a
engine An engine or motor is a machine designed to convert one or more forms of energy into mechanical energy. Available energy sources include potential energy (e.g. energy of the Earth's gravitational field as exploited in hydroelectric power ge ...
. The 420a was not available until the second generation.
*Eclipse GS DOHC AWD: Equipped with a 4G63 16-valve naturally-aspirated engine (AWD N/A only available in Europe) All were only available with a five-speed manual transmission and without rear limited-slip differential. sunroof, cruise control,
anti-lock brakes An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is a safety anti- skid braking system used on aircraft and on land vehicles, such as cars, motorcycles, trucks, and buses. ABS operates by preventing the wheels from locking up during braking, thereby maintai ...
,
central locking Power door locks (also known as electric door locks or central locking) allow the driver or front passenger to simultaneously lock or unlock all the doors of an automobile or truck, by pressing a button or flipping a switch. Power door locks we ...
, and air conditioning were included. *Eclipse GS Turbo: Upgraded model equipped with a *
turbocharged In an internal combustion engine, a turbocharger (also known as a turbo or a turbosupercharger) is a forced induction device that is powered by the flow of exhaust gases. It uses this energy to compress the intake air, forcing more air into the ...
2.0 L 16-valve DOHC 4G63T I4 engine *Eclipse GSX: AWD model equipped with a * turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC 4G63T I4 engine ''The 1990 GS Turbo with a
manual transmission A manual transmission (MT), also known as manual gearbox, standard transmission (in Canadian English, Canada, British English, the United Kingdom and American English, the United States), or stick shift (in the United States), is a multi-speed ...
was rated at 190 hp, whereas the 1990 GSX with a manual transmission was rated at . This was for the purpose of offsetting the additional weight of the AWD mechanism (approximately 2,930 lbs Vs 2,570 lbs GVW). However, 1991 and later years of both turbo models standardized on the 195 hp version 4G63T. The automatic models were rated at due to smaller fuel-injectors and turbocharger.'' 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. In the European market, only a single trim was available (sold either as plain "Eclipse", or with GS or GSi badging depending on the importer), fitted with the 2-liter DOHC engine producing . Some European buyers could also opt for four-wheel-drive.


Powertrain

The basic driveline layout of the Eclipse is a
transverse Transverse may refer to: *Transverse engine, an engine in which the crankshaft is oriented side-to-side relative to the wheels of the vehicle *Transverse flute, a flute that is held horizontally * Transverse force (or ''Euler force''), the tangen ...
-mounted I4 Mitsubishi 4G37 or 4G63 engine situated on the left-hand side of the car driving an
automatic Automatic may refer to: Music Bands * Automatic (Australian band), Australian rock band * Automatic (American band), American rock band * The Automatic, a Welsh alternative rock band Albums * ''Automatic'' (Jack Bruce album), a 1983 el ...
or
manual transmission A manual transmission (MT), also known as manual gearbox, standard transmission (in Canadian English, Canada, British English, the United Kingdom and American English, the United States), or stick shift (in the United States), is a multi-speed ...
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 (also available as limited-slip) and half-shafts.


Engines

The 4G37 and 4G63 engines are gasoline
inline-four A straight-four engine (also referred to as an inline-four engine) is a four-cylinder piston engine where cylinders are arranged in a line along a common crankshaft. The majority of automotive four-cylinder engines use a straight-four layout ( ...
s. The 4G63 has an iron engine block with an aluminum
cylinder head In a piston engine, the cylinder head sits above the cylinders, forming the roof of the combustion chamber. In sidevalve engines the head is a simple plate of metal containing the spark plugs and possibly heat dissipation fins. In more modern ...
and is equipped with two balance shafts. The turbocharged version of the 4G63 (sometimes referred to as the 4G63T) has a lower compression ratio of 7.8:1 and oil squirters under the pistons for better cooling from extra heat created by forced induction. The turbocharged 4G63 engine received an internal update during the 1992 model year. The engines built from 1989 through April 1992 have 6-bolt motors. Beginning in May 1992, Mitsubishi revised the engine to a 7-bolt design.The bolts refer to the number of bolts on the flywheel that connect to the crankshaft.


Problems and issues

In March 1998, Mitsubishi issued a
recall Recall may refer to: * Recall (baseball), a baseball term * Recall (bugle call), a signal to stop * Recall (information retrieval), a statistical measure * ReCALL (journal), ''ReCALL'' (journal), an academic journal about computer-assisted langua ...
(bulletin 98V069001) for all 1990–1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse GSXsThe recall would also apply to AWD variants of the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser. citing, "Lockup of the
transfer case A transfer case is an intermediate gearbox that transfers power from the transmission of a motor vehicle to the driven axles of four-wheel-drive, all-wheel-drive, and other multi-axled on- and off-road machines. A part of the vehicle's drivetr ...
can occur due to insufficient lubrication. The condition can cause a loss of vehicle control increasing the risk of a crash." The dealers would inspect the vehicles for the adequacy of the transfer case oil volume, transfer case oil leakage, and operational degradation of the transfer case mechanism. The transfer case itself did not leak but rather the brass plug in the center of the transfer case yoke would leak. Mitsubishi estimated that 24,275 vehicles were affected.


Safety

The
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA ) is an agency of the U.S. federal government, part of the Department of Transportation, focused on automobile safety regulations. NHTSA is charged with writing and enforcing Feder ...
(NHTSA) has determined crash test ratings of the 1G Eclipse:


Awards

The Eclipse ''Turbo'' was on ''
Car and Driver ''Car and Driver'' (''CD'' or ''C/D'') is an American automotive enthusiast magazine first published in 1955. In 2006 its total circulation was 1.23 million. It is owned by Hearst Magazines, who purchased it from its prior owner Hachette Fi ...
'' magazine's Ten Best list for 1989 through 1992.


Second generation (D31A/D32A/D33A/D38A/D39A; 1994)


Overview

The Eclipse was redesigned in 1994 (for the 1995 model year) and included standard dual airbags, more rounded styling, a larger interior, and a new engine made by Chrysler for the base model. The second-generation car maintained the market focus of the first-generation car but had numerous changes to appeal to a broader market. A convertible model, named the Eclipse Spyder, was introduced in 1996 and offered in two trim levels; the GS and the GS-T. The Spyder GS was powered by a 2.4 L I4 naturally-aspirated 4G64 engine. The Spyder GS-T was fitted with Mitsubishi's 2.0 L turbocharged 4G63 I4 engine. The GSX model was also powered by this engine but with the addition of
all-wheel drive An all-wheel drive vehicle (AWD vehicle) is one with a powertrain capable of providing power to all its wheels, whether full-time or on-demand. Types The most common forms of all-wheel drive are: ;1x1 : All unicycles Reflects one axle with ...
system. No convertible model was powered by the Chrysler's 420a engine, nor was there a convertible with all-wheel-drive. The turbocharged engine option was updated for more power as compared to the previous generation ( vs. ). The naturally-aspirated cars had two different I4 engines depending on the market. The US version engines produced 140 hp, found only in the RS and GS trims, and were a modified version of the
Chrysler Neon engine The Chrysler 1.8, 2.0, and 2.4 are inline-4 engines designed originally for the Chrysler Neon, Dodge and Plymouth Neon compact car. These engines were loosely based on their predecessors, the Chrysler 2.2 & 2.5 engine, sharing the same bore. The ...
, the 420A, manufactured by Chrysler and delivered to and installed at the
Diamond Star Motors Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. Manufacturing Division (originally, Diamond-Star Motors) was an automobile-manufacturing joint venture between the Chrysler Corporation and Mitsubishi Motors.
facility. The European market engines were a naturally aspirated 4G63 with . International market Eclipses made less horsepower than their Japanese domestic market equivalents when equipped with the 4G63 (, ), due to emissions regulations. This model exceeded Japanese government's compact car
regulations Regulation is the management of complex systems according to a set of rules and trends. In systems theory, these types of rules exist in various fields of biology and society, but the term has slightly different meanings according to context. Fo ...
regarding exterior dimensions (maximum width of ), therefore incurred a more expensive annual
road tax Road tax, known by various names around the world, is a tax which has to be paid on, or included with, a motorised vehicle to use it on a public road. National implementations Australia All states and territories require an annual vehicle regist ...
obligation. 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 Enkei wheels with the OZ Racing logo. It also included the leather interior package, accented exhaust exit, “silver” gauges, mud flaps, and higher-profile spoiler that were available as standard equipment on GS-T coupe and GSX models. The special-edition package was only offered with the 420A engine. A unique version of the 2G Eclipse was sold in some
Europe Europe is a continent located entirely in the Northern Hemisphere and mostly in the Eastern Hemisphere. It is bordered by the Arctic Ocean to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and Asia to the east ...
an countries. It used a naturally-aspirated Mitsubishi 4G63 motor, similar to what was available in the 1G, unique side-view mirrors, and amber rear turn signals. A minor style revision was applied for the 1997
model year The model year (sometimes abbreviated as MY) is a method of describing the version of a product which has been produced over multiple years. The model year may or may not be the same as the calendar year in which the product was manufactured. ...
. 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 rear license plate bracket. The GS-T coupe and GSX received a higher-profile rear spoiler. 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. A black leather interior option was only available in 1999; the package included all seats (with the 'Mitsubishi' logo embroidered on both of the fronts), door inserts, and a center console armrest.


Trim levels

The Eclipse was available in seven trim levels: Base nly available in 1996.5 (mid-model year) RS (Rally Sport), GS (Grand Sport), GS Spyder, GS-T (Grand Sport Turbo), GS-T Spyder, and GSX (Grand Sport X=AWD). *Eclipse RS: Base model equipped with a and of torque 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Chrysler 420a I4 engine *Eclipse GS: Equipment upgraded model equipped with a and of torque 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Chrysler 420A engine. The European variant of the GS had a naturally-aspirated, DOHC 16-valve 4G63 I4 engine producing 150 HP *Eclipse Spyder GS: Convertible model equipped with a 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 4G64 I4 engine *Eclipse GS-T: Upgraded model equipped with a and of torque
turbocharged In an internal combustion engine, a turbocharger (also known as a turbo or a turbosupercharger) is a forced induction device that is powered by the flow of exhaust gases. It uses this energy to compress the intake air, forcing more air into the ...
and
intercooled An intercooler is a heat exchanger used to cool a gas after compression. Often found in turbocharged engines, intercoolers are also used in air compressors, air conditioners, refrigeration and gas turbines. Internal combustion engines Most ...
2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Mitsubishi 4G63 I4 engine *Eclipse Spyder GS-T: Convertible model equipped with a and of torque turbocharged and intercooled 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Mitsubishi 4G63 I4 engine *Eclipse GSX: AWD model equipped with a and of torque turbocharged and intercooled 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Mitsubishi 4G63 I4 engine


Standard equipment

The second-generation Eclipse was offered in various trim levels. Standard equipment would vary slightly throughout the production run as some items that were optional on certain trims became standard later on. Each trim level came with a standard list of equipment; however, optional equipment packages were also available to add popular and premium features, most commonly found on the GS model. In addition, optional equipment was also available such as a trunk-mounted CD player, leather interior on the GS and GS-T Leather package on the GS and GS-T was a dealer-installed option. and HomeLink and other items such as floormats and wheel locks. *RS: 2.0 L DOHC I4 engine, five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, driver and passenger airbags, power steering, cloth reclining front bucket seats, five-way adjustable driver's seat with memory recliner, center storage console, folding rear seat, map lights, remote fuel door and rear hatch releases, tachometer, trip odometer, low fluid warning lights, AM/FM radio, digital clock, tinted glass, rear defogger, dual remote mirrors, color-keyed bumpers and front air dam, 14-inch wheels with full wheel covers (195/70/HR14 tires.) *GS adds: 4-wheel disc brakes, 6-way (7-way in 1995) adjustable driver's seat, split-folding rear seat, tilt steering column, cassette player, Power antenna (96-99),
cruise control Cruise control (also known as speed control, cruise command, autocruise, or tempomat) is a system that automatically controls the speed of an automobile. The system is a servomechanism that takes over the car's throttle to maintain a steady sp ...
, body-colored power mirrors, door handles and rear spoiler, fog lights, a cargo cover and net, 16-inch wheels with 205/55/HR16 tires (96-99 models), lower bodyside cladding, rear windshield washer/wiper. *GS-T adds: turbocharged and intercooled engine, engine oil cooler, air conditioning, cruise control, turbo boost, and oil pressure gauges, Infinity 8-speaker AM/FM cassette/CD player with separate amplifier, anti-theft system, power windows/door locks, sport-tuned shock absorbers, 16-inch alloy five-spoke wheels, bright dual exhaust outlets. *Spyder GS-T adds: variable-assist power steering, sport suspension, power insulated soft top with glass rear window, vinyl tonneau cover, leather upholstery, remote keyless entry, theft-deterrent system, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, 205/55VR16 tires. *GSX adds to GS-T: Permanent all-wheel drive, 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/50/VR17 tires (97-99), 16-inch alloy wheels with 215/55/VR16 tires with a manual transmission 205/55/VR16 tires for automatic transmission (95-96), limited-slip rear differential (optional 97–98), power driver's seat (96-99), anti-lock brakes (optional 95–99), leather-wrapped steering wheel and manual transmission knob, leather package, 10.8-inch vented front rotors with dual-piston calipers and vented rear rotors (rear vented only early 95).


Powertrain

The basic driveline layout of the Eclipse is a transverse-mounted I4 Chrysler 420A, Mitsubishi 4G64, or 4G63 engine. The Mitsubishi engines are mounted in the same orientation as 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 Gasoline ( North American English) or petrol ( Commonwealth English) is a petrochemical product characterized as a transparent, yellowish, and flammable liquid normally used as a fuel for spark-ignited internal combustion engines. When for ...
engines. All have cast iron blocks with aluminum cylinder heads. The 4G63/ 4G64 engines retain the balance shafts for smoother operation, while the 420a does not. 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 Garrett may refer to: Places in the United States * Garrett, Illinois, a village * Garrett, Indiana, a city * Garrett, Floyd County, Kentucky, an unincorporated community * Garrett, Meade County, Kentucky, an unincorporated community * Garrett, ...
T25 set to in place of the previous Mitsubishi TD04-13G turbocharger (automatic cars) and TD05-14B turbocharger (manual cars). This was done to minimize turbo lag, which was an undesirable trait for mass-market appeal in the U.S. These changes led to increased horsepower and torque vs. the previous 1G turbos. The 2G turbo cars produced at 6,000 rpm ( at 6,000 rpm with automatic transmission) and at 3,000 rpm ( at 3,000 rpm with automatic transmission.) The 4G63T engines found in 1990–1994 models have a throttle body compared to the 1995–1999 MY's . The intake ports on the head and runners of the intake manifold are also larger on the 1G. They also have larger crankshaft bearing journals to allow better lubrication. Because they look similar, it is important to note that the 1990-1994
cylinder head In a piston engine, the cylinder head sits above the cylinders, forming the roof of the combustion chamber. In sidevalve engines the head is a simple plate of metal containing the spark plugs and possibly heat dissipation fins. In more modern ...
is more on the side of high air volume, while the 1995-1999 cylinder head is more on the side of high air velocity.
Mitsubishi Motors is a Japanese Multinational corporation, multinational Automotive industry, automobile manufacturer headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, Japan.
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 The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, popularly referred to as the "Evo", is a sports sedan and rally car based on the Lancer that was manufactured by Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors from 1992 until 2016. There have been ten official version ...
, which was not yet sold in
North America North America is a continent in the Northern Hemisphere, Northern and Western Hemisphere, Western hemispheres. North America is bordered to the north by the Arctic Ocean, to the east by the Atlantic Ocean, to the southeast by South Ameri ...
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 and functionality thanks to a new ECU, which was similar to Lancer Evolution ECUs. Although originally deactivated to protect the drivetrain, it included advanced features such as launch control, boost control, adjustable rev-limit, fuel system control as well as fuel and boost map selection for certain
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is a Japanese Multinational corporation, multinational engineering, electrical equipment and electronics corporation headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. MHI is one of the core companies of the Mitsubishi Group and its automobile division is the prede ...
turbochargers.


Problems and issues

The second-generation Eclipse received a noteworthy powertrain
Technical Service Bulletin Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) are document recommended procedures for repairing vehicles issued by a vehicle manufacturer when there are several occurrences of an unanticipated problem. TSBs can range from vehicle-specific to covering entire ...
s (TSB) in March 1998, Mitsubishi issued a recall (bulletin 98V069001) for the 1990–1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse GSXThe recall would also apply to the AWD variant of the Eagle Talon. noting lockup of the
transfer case A transfer case is an intermediate gearbox that transfers power from the transmission of a motor vehicle to the driven axles of four-wheel-drive, all-wheel-drive, and other multi-axled on- and off-road machines. A part of the vehicle's drivetr ...
could occur due to insufficient lubrication potentially causing loss of vehicle control and an increased crash. The dealers would inspect the vehicles for the adequacy of the transfer case oil volume, transfer case oil leakage, and operational degradation of the transfer case mechanism. The transfer case itself did not leak but rather the brass plug in the center of the transfer case yoke would leak. Mitsubishi estimated 24,275 vehicles were affected.


Safety

All 2G Eclipses came standard with driver and front-passenger airbags, side-guard door beams, front and rear body structure crumple zones, 5 mph energy-absorbing bumpers, safety-cage body construction, 4-wheel disc brakes (except RS), three-point ELR/ALR lap/shoulder safety belts (ELR only for the driver) and height-adjustable front shoulder belts. Anti-lock brakes were optional on all models (except for RS). The
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA ) is an agency of the U.S. federal government, part of the Department of Transportation, focused on automobile safety regulations. NHTSA is charged with writing and enforcing Feder ...
(NHTSA) has determined crash test ratings of the 2G Eclipse:


Awards

1995 and 1996 "Driver's Choice Award" - MotorWeek


Third generation (D52A/D53A; 1999)


Overview

The third generation was inspired by the Mitsubishi SST design study and was presented at the 1998 North American International Auto Show. It was the first concept vehicle exhibited by Mitsubishi at a US auto show. Two new powertrain options were available, a 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC I4 4G64 and a 24v SOHC 3.0 L V6 (
6G72 The 6G7 series or Cyclone V6 engine is a series of V6 piston engines from Mitsubishi Motors. Five displacement variants were produced from 1986 to 2021, with both SOHC and DOHC, naturally aspirated and turbo charged layouts. The 2.5, 3.0, and 3.5& ...
). AWD was no longer an option. The suspension setup was modified to provide a softer and more compliant ride quality. The third-generation Eclipse shared its
powertrain In a motor vehicle, the powertrain comprises the main components that generate engine power, power and deliver that power to the road surface, water, or air. This includes the internal combustion engine, engine, transmission (mechanics), trans ...
with the eighth-generation
Galant The galant style was an 18th-century movement in music, visual arts and literature. In Germany a closely related style was called the '' empfindsamer Stil'' (sensitive style). Another close relative is rococo style. The galant style was drawn in ...
. In late 2001, the power of the GT trim was lowered to as a result of tightened emission standards forcing MMNA to adopt the
California California () is a U.S. state, state in the Western United States that lies on the West Coast of the United States, Pacific Coast. It borders Oregon to the north, Nevada and Arizona to the east, and shares Mexico–United States border, an ...
emissions standards for all variants of the car, rather than selling independent 'Federal Specification' and 'California Specifications' 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 (MVIM) air intake system that gave the car an extra and a slightly improved power curve. The 2003–2005 GTS coupe, GTS Spyder and GT Spyder shared the new engine while the GT coupe retained the powertrain. With the introduction of the 2003 GTS model, the Eclipse saw minor changes including a redesigned front bumper with slotted fog lights, as well as a recoloring of the taillights. On the interior, the gauge face changed, and the door panels were also redesigned. Newly designed five-spoke chrome wheels were offered with the GT and GTS trims. In 2004, Mitsubishi Motors imported the Eclipse Spyder to the Japanese Domestic Market as a special edition.


Trim levels

The Eclipse was available in 7 trim levels: RS, GS, GS Spyder, GT, GT Spyder, GTS, and GTS Spyder. All trim levels (besides RS and the Spyder) came with an automatic tilt and retracting sunroof. All models were front-wheel drive (FWD). The GTS trims were introduced for the 2003 model year. For the 2005 model year, the RS trim was discontinued and a special "Remix Edition" GS trim package was introduced, which included chrome wheels, identifying placards, and the premium interior package from the GT and GTS models, which was not previously offered on the GS trim. *Eclipse RS: Base model equipped with a 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: Upgraded model equipped with a 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 4G64 engine *Eclipse GS Spyder: Convertible model equipped with a 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 4G64 engine *Eclipse GT: Upgraded model equipped with a 3.0 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G72 engine *Eclipse GT Spyder: 2000-2002: convertible model equipped with a 3.0 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G72 engine. 2003-2005: convertible FWD model equipped with a 3.0 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G72 engine with MVIM *Eclipse GTS: Upgraded model equipped with a 3.0 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G72 engine with Mitsubishi Variable Induction Management (MVIM) *Eclipse GTS Spyder: Convertible model equipped with a 3.0 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G72 engine with MVIM


Engines

The third-generation Eclipse utilized two distinct Mitsubishi engines: The SOHC 4G64 2.4 L 16-valve four-cylinder and SOHC
6G72 The 6G7 series or Cyclone V6 engine is a series of V6 piston engines from Mitsubishi Motors. Five displacement variants were produced from 1986 to 2021, with both SOHC and DOHC, naturally aspirated and turbo charged layouts. The 2.5, 3.0, and 3.5& ...
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 and of torque throughout all years. The 3.0 L V6, however, used in GT and GT Spyder models, produced in Federal Specifications between 2000-2001 and in all GT models in California Specifications, all years with a static compression ratio of 9:1. In 2003, the 3.0 L V6 was improved for the GTS and GT/GTS Spyder, using a revised camshaft profile, raised compression ratio of 10:1 and variable-length MVIM intake manifold. This engine produced .


Safety

The
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA ) is an agency of the U.S. federal government, part of the Department of Transportation, focused on automobile safety regulations. NHTSA is charged with writing and enforcing Feder ...
(NHTSA) has determined crash test ratings of Eclipse of different model years:


2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse EV

The Mitsubishi Eclipse EV is a prototype
electric vehicle An electric vehicle (EV) is a motor vehicle whose propulsion is powered fully or mostly by electricity. EVs encompass a wide range of transportation modes, including road vehicle, road and rail vehicles, electric boats and Submersible, submer ...
with a lightweight electric motor and
lithium-ion batteries A lithium-ion or Li-ion battery is a type of rechargeable battery that uses the reversible intercalation of Li+ ions into electronically conducting solids to store energy. Li-ion batteries are characterized by higher specific energy, energy ...
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. The prototype model participated in the 2001 Shikoku EV Rally, a circuit around the perimeter of
Shikoku is the smallest of the List of islands of Japan#Main islands, four main islands of Japan. It is long and between at its widest. It has a population of 3.8 million, the least populated of Japan's four main islands. It is south of Honshu ...
, Japan, where it drove in excess of on a single battery charge.


Fourth generation (DK2A/DK4A; 2005)


Overview

Another substantial styling revision was introduced, with the fourth-generation model taking some of the profile from the second generation model but maintaining a front fascia consistent with Mitsubishi's corporate styling features of the time. Drivetrain features include a 3.8 L
MIVEC MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system) is the brand name of a variable valve timing (VVT) engine technology developed by Mitsubishi Motors. MIVEC, as with other similar systems, varies the timing of the intake and ex ...
V6 engine for the GT trim, 2009 and newer models have . The GS has a 2.4 L
MIVEC MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system) is the brand name of a variable valve timing (VVT) engine technology developed by Mitsubishi Motors. MIVEC, as with other similar systems, varies the timing of the intake and ex ...
four-cylinder engine, 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 fourth-generation Eclipse is FWD only, although a concept model has been produced by Mitsubishi and Ralliart with a
MillenWorks MillenWorks, known as Rod Millen Motorsports until 2005, was an American automotive technology company started by Rod Millen in 1980. The company began by preparing Millen's rally cars, and evolved into designing and building them. The company d ...
designed hybrid-electric AWD platform, the 4G63 engine from the
Lancer Evolution The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, popularly referred to as the "Evo", is a sports sedan and rally car based on the Lancer that was manufactured by Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors from 1992 until 2016. There have been ten official version ...
, and more aggressive body styling with imitation carbon fiber accents. The V6 produces and of
torque In physics and mechanics, torque is the rotational analogue of linear force. It is also referred to as the moment of force (also abbreviated to moment). The symbol for torque is typically \boldsymbol\tau, the lowercase Greek letter ''tau''. Wh ...
. The fourth-generation
Spyder The SPYDER ("Surface-to-air Python and Derby") is an Israeli short and medium range mobile air defence system developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems with assistance from Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). Rafael is the prime contractor an ...
(
convertible A convertible or cabriolet () is a Car, passenger car that can be driven with or without a roof in place. The methods of retracting and storing the roof vary across eras and manufacturers. A convertible car's design allows an open-air drivin ...
) Eclipse was released for the 2007 model year at the
North American International Auto Show The Detroit Auto Show, formerly known as the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), is an annual auto show held in Detroit, Michigan. Hosted at Huntington Place (formerly Cobo Center) since 1965, it is among the largest auto shows in ...
.


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, SE, 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. The SE package was available in either GS or GT trim specs, however included optional equipment. *Eclipse GS: Base model equipped with a , 2.4 L 16-valve
SOHC An overhead camshaft (OHC) engine is a piston engine in which the camshaft is located in the cylinder head above the combustion chamber. This contrasts with earlier overhead valve engines (OHV), where the camshaft is located below the combus ...
Mitsubishi 4G69 engine. *Eclipse GS Sport Spyder: Convertible model equipped with a , 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 4G69 engine. *Eclipse SE: Upgraded model equipped with either a , 2.4 L 16-valve I4 MIVEC Engine, or 3.8 L V6 6G75M engine and included additional features including 18-inch wheels, a front and rear spoiler, unique interior options and side skirt decals. *Eclipse GT: Premium model equipped with a , 3.8 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G75 engine, 2009–2012 models have 265 hp. *Eclipse GT Spyder: Convertible premium model equipped with a , 3.8 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G75 engine, 2009–2012 models have . The models and standard / optional equipment: *GS Standard- Choice of five-speed manual or a four-speed Sportronic automatic transmission, a 140-
watt The watt (symbol: W) is the unit of Power (physics), power or radiant flux in the International System of Units (SI), equal to 1 joule per second or 1 kg⋅m2⋅s−3. It is used to quantification (science), quantify the rate of Work ...
(max.) Mitsubishi CD/MP3-compatible audio system with six speakers, 17-inch alloy wheels, an anti-theft immobilizer, auto-off halogen headlamps, power windows/locks/
mirror A mirror, also known as a looking glass, is an object that Reflection (physics), reflects an image. Light that bounces off a mirror forms an image of whatever is in front of it, which is then focused through the lens of the eye or a camera ...
s,
air conditioning Air conditioning, often abbreviated as A/C (US) or air con (UK), is the process of removing heat from an enclosed space to achieve a more comfortable interior temperature, and in some cases, also controlling the humidity of internal air. Air c ...
, a split fold-down rear seat, two 12-volt accessory outlets, anti-lock brakes, a rear spoiler, and a six
airbag An airbag is a vehicle occupant-restraint system using a bag designed to inflate in milliseconds during a collision and then deflate afterwards. It consists of an airbag cushion, a flexible fabric bag, an inflation module, and an impact sensor. ...
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 trunk-mounted subwoofer, a 6-CD in-dash changer, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, the package also includes a central display with outside temperature and compass readings and an electrochromic
rear-view mirror A rear-view mirror (or rearview mirror) is a, usually plane mirror, flat, mirror in automobiles and other vehicles, designed to allow the driver to see rearward through the vehicle's rear window (rear windshield). In cars, the rear-view mirror ...
. *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 the center dash display. *GT Standard - Choice of six-speed manual or a five-speed Sportronic automatic transmission, a 140-watt (max.) Mitsubishi CD/
MP3 MP3 (formally MPEG-1 Audio Layer III or MPEG-2 Audio Layer III) is a coding format for digital audio developed largely by the Fraunhofer Society in Germany under the lead of Karlheinz Brandenburg. It was designed to greatly reduce the amount ...
-compatible audio system with six speakers, 17-inch alloy wheels, an anti-theft immobilizer, auto-off halogen headlamps, fog lamps, power windows/locks/mirrors, 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 seven-spoke alloy wheels, leather front seating surfaces, a power
sunroof A sunroof is a movable panel that opens to uncover a window in an automobile roof, allowing light and fresh air to enter the passenger compartment. Sunroofs can be manually operated or motor driven, and are available in many shapes, sizes and s ...
, an eight-way-adjustable (six power) 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 that included a 10-in (254 mm) trunk-mounted subwoofer, a 6-CD/MP3-compatible in-dash changer, and 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, and a wind deflector.


Engines

*GS - Equipped with the SOHC I4 4G69 engine capable of in factory trim. The displacement is 2378 cc, with a bore of 87 mm and a stroke of 100 mm. The engine runs 9.5:1 compression. Firing order is 1-3-4-2. It uses 315 cc top feed high impedance injectors with a returnless fuel rail. It has a 62 mm throttle body. The stock exhaust diameter is 2 1/8". *GT - Equipped with the V6 with bore X stroke
SOHC An overhead camshaft (OHC) engine is a piston engine in which the camshaft is located in the cylinder head above the combustion chamber. This contrasts with earlier overhead valve engines (OHV), where the camshaft is located below the combus ...
4 valves per cylinder 60° V-block 6G75 engine capable of making in factory trim and a
compression ratio The compression ratio is the ratio between the maximum and minimum volume during the compression stage of the power cycle in a piston or Wankel engine. A fundamental specification for such engines, it can be measured in two different ways. Th ...
of 10.5:1. The firing order is 1-2-3-4-5-6. It uses 315 cc top feed high impedance injectors with a returnless fuel rail. It has a 65 mm throttle body. The stock exhaust diameter is 2 1/4". Since 2009, power is upgraded to at 5750 rpm and at 4500 rpm of
torque In physics and mechanics, torque is the rotational analogue of linear force. It is also referred to as the moment of force (also abbreviated to moment). The symbol for torque is typically \boldsymbol\tau, the lowercase Greek letter ''tau''. Wh ...
. The intake valves begin to open at 5° before top dead center, and close 55° after top dead center. The exhaust valves open 51° after top dead center, and close 17° after top dead center. The oil pump is a trochoid type. The cooling system is water cooled forced circulation with a centrifugal impeller type pump.


Facelifts

The Eclipse received a minor facelift for the 2009 model year, the front fascia changed the fog lights and deleted the triangle housing the "three diamond" logo from 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 and of torque in part due to the more open front fascia as well as a new stock dual exhaust system. It was unveiled at the 2008
Chicago Auto Show The Chicago Auto Show is held annually in February at Chicago's McCormick Place convention center. It is the largest auto show in North America. Event History Samuel Miles, formerly a promoter of bicycle shows, produced the first "official" ...
. For 2011, the Mitsubishi Eclipse featured a "blackout" roof, similar to the 1990 model. Mitsubishi also lowered the suspension of Eclipse about half an inch to lower the center of gravity. A rear backup camera and Bluetooth hands-free calling to the Sun and sound package were included. 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 Eclipse received three slight changes: brake override logic, a clear lip spoiler on the GT trim, and one new exterior color. According to a review and rating by ''Motor Trend'', the fourth-generation Eclipse was described as "dated" - but its "exterior design still stands out among sporty coupes currently available." The 2012 model year Eclipse was now six years old and "is still trying to pass itself off as a sporty two-door." This was the final model year, albeit a short run because production ended in August 2011. The last Eclipse was manufactured on 16 August 2011, painted Kalapana Black, the color chosen 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 V6 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, Illinois on 17 September 2012, for $35,000. Proceeds went to the Japanese Red Cross to aid victims of the
2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami On 11 March 2011, at 14:46:24 Japan Standard Time, JST (05:46:24 UTC), a  9.0–9.1 Submarine earthquake, undersea megathrust earthquake occurred in the Pacific Ocean, east of the Oshika Peninsula of the Tōhoku region. It lasted approx ...
. Total Eclipse production was 906,876 units.


Recalls

*05V247000 - Recalled 6 February 2005, vehicles were found equipped with faulty brake booster assemblies. The brake booster could separate due to improper crimp joints resulting in total brake failure *05V299000 - Recalled 27 June 2005, master cylinders were found to have improperly installed seals. Brake fluid may bypass the seal and result in longer pedal stroke, and reduced braking pressure *15V337000 - Recalled 6 February 2015, vehicles made between 23 December 2005 and 13 February 2009 were recalled for corrosion issues in the ABS unit. This can cause internal valves to seize, resulting in sudden brake failure or reduced stopping ability *08V454000 - Recalled 9 September 2008, certain 2005-2007 vehicles had improper fuel tank mounting brackets which could split. This could result in the fuel tank to come undone in a collision and potentially cause a fuel leak.


Motorsport

The Eclipse has been campaigned in various
auto racing Auto racing (also known as car racing, motor racing, or automobile racing) is a motorsport involving the racing of automobiles for competition. In North America, the term is commonly used to describe all forms of automobile sport including non ...
events.


Rally, endurance and road racing

The Eclipse, and its Chrysler-branded counterparts, have competed in
Sports Car Club of America The Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) is a non-profit American automobile club and sanctioning body supporting Autocross, Rallycross, HPDE, Time Trial, Road Racing, RoadRally, and Hill Climbs in the United States. Formed in 1944, it runs ...
(SCCA) events. In 1995, a GT2 class specification Eclipse GSX was entered into the annual
24 Hours of Daytona The 24 Hours of Daytona, also known as the Rolex 24 At Daytona for sponsorship reasons, is a 24-hour sports car racing, sports car Endurance racing (motorsport), endurance race held annually at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Flo ...
endurance race. It was placed on grid number 74, at the back in last place. It moved up to 24th place overall finish without any issues. It nearly set a new record as well, passing a total of 50 cars. In 1998, it entered the race again but was now in a lower specification class (GT3/GTS3). It finished in 24th place. In 1999, the Eclipse made its final appearance in the race, achieving 39th place, after posting 455 laps. The name of the team was Spirit of Daytona and their sponsor was
Daytona Daytona may refer to: Locations * Daytona Beach, Florida * Daytona Beach Shores, Florida * South Daytona, Florida * The Daytona Beach metropolitan area * Halifax area, also known as Daytona, the region around Daytona Beach Motor racing * Dayto ...
Mitsubishi. Craig Conway, Eric Van Cleef, and Todd Flis were the drivers. In 2004 and 2005, Greg Collier won the NASA Super Unlimited class national title in a Plymouth Laser RS Turbo. These wins were over purpose-built
Ferrari Challenge The Ferrari Challenge is a One-Design, single-marque Auto racing, motorsport championship that was created in 1993, initially catering to owners of the 348 Challenge who wanted to race their cars. The first European season took place in 1993, ...
and
Porsche Carrera Cup Porsche Carrera Cup (sometimes abbreviated PCC) is a number of one-make racing by Porsche premier series competed with, initially Porsche 911 Carrera Cup, then later Porsche 911 GT3 Cup cars. The cars are specifically built by Porsche for on ...
race cars. In 2009 and 2010, an Eclipse Spyder GS-T driven by Matt Andrews and Andrew Brilliant won the
Super Lap Battle The Super Lap Battle Finals are a time attack event held at Buttonwillow Raceway Park near Bakersfield, California. This competition is fielded largely by privateer teams racing unibody-based production vehicles. History Beginning in 2004, The '' ...
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. Other drivers such as Karel Stehlik and David Komarek have used Eclipses in hill climb competition as well. Some of engines produce as much as . They also have short transmission gears to accelerate to triple-digit speeds.


Drag racing

Brent Rau has won three world drag racing championships using an Eclipse; IDRC, NDRA, and
NHRA The National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) is a governing body which sets rules in drag racing and hosts events all over the United States and Canada. With over 40,000 drivers in its rosters, the NHRA claims to be the largest motorsport sanction ...
. Many other notable names have also claimed big wins piloting Eclipses for drag racing as well. Jett Racing entered a third-generation Eclipse for drag racing competition. As of 2014, they hold the world record for the world's fastest four-cylinder. It has and is RWD. It is capable of over . On 29 November 2018, they ran 6.2 seconds in the quarter-mile with a top speed of .


See also

* DSM * Plymouth Laser * Eagle Talon


Notes


References


External links

* * * {{Authority control
Eclipse An eclipse is an astronomical event which occurs when an astronomical object or spacecraft is temporarily obscured, by passing into the shadow of another body or by having another body pass between it and the viewer. This alignment of three ...
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