205-215 lb-ft (depending on year and specific tune)
Displacement 2.4L Sohc:
2351 cc
Horsepower 2.4L Sohc:
140-150 hp
Torque 2.4L Sohc:
145-155 lb-ft
Displacement 3.0L V6:
2972 cc
Horsepower 3.0L V6:
170-175 hp
Torque 3.0L V6:
185-190 lb-ft
Performance
Turbocharged Engines:
Emphasis on the 4G63T, a highly regarded engine for its performance potential and aftermarket support.
Fuel System
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended for turbocharged models).
Turbocharger Specs:
Mitsubishi TD05H-14B or similar turbochargers used on performance variants.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Options:
5-speed manual transmission was standard on many performance trims.
Optional
Transmission Options:
4-speed automatic transmission was available on all engine variants.
Features
AWD Transmission:
Specific manual (W5MG1) and automatic (F4A51) transmissions for AWD models, featuring a viscous coupling center differential.
Manual Transmission Codes:
F5M33 (FWD), W5MG1 (AWD)
Automatic Transmission Codes:
F4A22 (FWD), F4A51 (AWD), KM105 (FWD, earlier)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Gen1:
Approx. 103.2 inches (2621 mm)
Wheelbase Gen2:
Approx. 103.2 inches (2621 mm)
Length:
Approx. 172.4 - 178.5 inches (4379 - 4534 mm) depending on generation and model
Width:
Approx. 69.1 - 70.7 inches (1755 - 1796 mm) depending on generation and model
Height:
Approx. 51.8 - 53.7 inches (1316 - 1364 mm) depending on generation and model
Weights
Curb Weight:
Ranges from approximately 2,900 lbs to 3,400 lbs (1315 - 1542 kg) depending on engine, drivetrain, and trim.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specified in manual, typically around 4,000 - 4,300 lbs.
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Around 10-12 cubic feet, variable by generation and rear seat configuration.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings Gen1:
Mixed, with some early models receiving average or below-average ratings in specific crash tests. Later models improved.
IIHS Ratings Gen1:
Similar to NHTSA, with variations across model years and crash test criteria.
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System available on many trims, particularly performance and AWD models.
Traction Control:
Available on some AWD models, especially in later production years.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag became standard in later years of the first generation and was standard on most second-generation models. Passenger airbag available on some second-gen trims.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants. Pretensioners on front seat belts for later models.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory cassette and CD players with basic AM/FM radio. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control systems with fan speed and temperature adjustments. Automatic climate control was an option on higher trims in later years.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most higher trim levels and optional on others.
Connectivity
Remote Keyless Entry:
Became available on more trims in the second generation.
Performance Tech
Engine Management:
ECU-controlled fuel injection and ignition timing. Turbocharged models feature boost control systems.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,750 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to specific model year recommendations).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for 4G63 engines. Recommended replacement every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Failure leads to severe engine damage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on spark plug type (standard vs. platinum/iridium).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Inspect, change as needed. Automatic: Typically every 30,000 - 60,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type 4G63:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Type 6G72:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a green or orange color. Consult manual for specific type and mixture ratio.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II/III ATF or specific power steering fluid as recommended by Mitsubishi.
Viscous coupling unit failure (leading to AWD binding or reduced effectiveness), CV joint wear.
Body And Interior:
Rust in wheel wells and rocker panels, faded paint, interior plastic degradation, HVAC blower motor issues, window regulator problems.
Electrical:
Corroded grounds, failing sensors (crankshaft position, camshaft position), ECU issues (less common but possible).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mitsubishi Motors:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for its engineering prowess, particularly in turbocharged engines and 4WD systems.
Model Evolution
Generation 1 (1990-1994):
Shared platform with Plymouth Laser and Eagle Talon. Distinctive pop-up headlights. Available in naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants (GS-T, AWD models). Known for its striking design and performance capabilities, especially the turbocharged AWD models.
Generation 2 (1995-1999):
Completely redesigned platform. Lost pop-up headlights. Introduced a more aerodynamic and bulbous styling. Offered naturally aspirated and turbocharged (GSX for AWD, GST for FWD) variants. V6 engine option also available. Known for significant improvements in chassis rigidity and power delivery.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Illinois) and Japan (during initial phases and for specific components).
Sales Performance:
Achieved significant sales success in the 1990s, becoming a popular choice for performance car buyers.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 (sharing some underlying technology and engine principles with performance Eclipses) and the Eclipse itself received accolades, with the Eclipse often cited for its performance value.
Motor Trend Import Car Of The Year:
While not directly awarded to the Eclipse/Talon/Laser, these platforms were part of a generation of cars that positioned Mitsubishi and its partners competitively in this segment.
Ratings
Performance Value:
Consistently recognized for offering a high level of performance (especially turbocharged AWD models) for its price point compared to competitors.
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