Recommended every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical for 4G63 engines to prevent catastrophic failure)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Manual Transmission Options:
5-speed manual (e.g., KM212, W5MG1 for AWD Turbo)
Optional
Automatic Transmission Options:
4-speed automatic (e.g., F4A21, F4A22)
Features
AWD Option:
Available on select models, particularly DOHC Turbo variants, featuring a center viscous coupling.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2,700 - 3,200 lbs (depending on engine and drivetrain)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings:
Varied by year and specific model; generally good for its era, but detailed ratings from this period can be sparse. Focus on manual's guidance for safety systems.
Active Features
Available Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims and turbo models.
Passive Features
Standard Features:
Driver and passenger airbags (standard from certain years/trims), seat belts.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette player, optional CD player, basic speaker systems.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
Connectivity
No Modern Connectivity:
No integrated Bluetooth, USB, or advanced infotainment systems typical of modern vehicles.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Recommended every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30 depending on climate).
Transmission Fluid Atf:
Diamond SP III or equivalent (for automatic transmissions), manual transmission fluid GL-4 or GL-5 (for manual transmissions, check specific type).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Turbo Models:
Turbocharger failure (often due to poor maintenance or oil starvation), cracked cylinder heads (especially on early DOHC turbo), automatic transmission issues.
Non Turbo Models:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), occasional engine oil leaks, suspension component wear.
General:
Rust and corrosion on body panels and undercarriage, aging rubber components (hoses, bushings).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mitsubishi Motorsport:
Strong ties to Mitsubishi's rally heritage, particularly with the 4G63 engine and AWD system used in Lancer Evolutions.
Model Evolution
First Generation:
This era represents the first generation of the Eclipse, Talon, and Laser, a joint venture between Mitsubishi and Chrysler.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Import Car Of The Year:
The platform and its variants were often recognized in automotive publications for their performance and value in their class during the early 1990s.