Market Position:
The Dodge Colt/Plymouth Colt, Eagle Summit, and Mitsubishi Eclipse/Galant were part of a collaborative effort between Mitsubishi and Chrysler, representing a shift towards sporty, driver-oriented vehicles for the American market in the late 80s and early 90s. The Laser Talon Eclipse models specifically targeted the performance coupe segment.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with vehicles like the Toyota Celica, Nissan 240SX, Mazda RX-7, and Ford Probe, often offering a strong value proposition with accessible performance, particularly in turbocharged variants.
Key Features:
Available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, potent turbocharged engines (4G63T), sporty styling, independent suspension on all corners, and a range of performance-oriented options. The AWD system was a significant differentiator.
Aerodynamic Styling:
Sleek, aerodynamic body design that contributed to its sporty appeal and competitive edge.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical (4G63, 4G63T), Engine Control Systems (EFI, Turbo), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Lubrication System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Drivetrain (FWD & AWD), Differentials, Drive Axles, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS equipped models included), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Body and Chassis, Interior Components, HVAC System, Emission Control Systems, Diagnostic Procedures
Drivetrain AWD System:
Detailed service and repair for the viscous coupling center differential and transfer case, including fluid checks and potential component replacement.
Engine Control Turbo Management:
Covers wastegate operation, boost control solenoid, engine control unit (ECU) parameters related to turbocharging, and troubleshooting turbo-related fault codes.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Inspections, Diagnostics and Troubleshooting, Component Removal and Installation, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Service, Suspension and Steering Repairs, Electrical System Diagnosis and Repair, Body Panel Repair, Interior Trim Replacement, HVAC Service, Turbocharger Servicing and Repair
Engine Rebuild Turbocharged:
Specific procedures for rebuilding the 4G63T engine, including piston and ring installation, bearing clearances, cylinder head assembly, and turbocharger installation/balancing where applicable.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Extensive wiring diagrams, component locations, and diagnostic flowcharts for all electrical systems, including ignition, fuel injection, lighting, accessories, and sensors.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, including torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic flowcharts, wiring diagrams, and exploded views for most components.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Lists and explains diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) relevant to the engine management and other electronic systems, providing steps for diagnosis and resolution.
Primary Engine 1:
2.0L SOHC 16-Valve Inline-4 (4G63)
Horsepower 1:
Approx. 135-145 hp @ 6000 rpm (naturally aspirated)
Torque 1:
Approx. 125-135 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (naturally aspirated)
Primary Engine 2:
2.0L DOHC 16-Valve Turbocharged Inline-4 (4G63T)
Horsepower 2:
Approx. 195-210 hp @ 6000 rpm (turbocharged, depending on trim/year)
Torque 2:
Approx. 203-220 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (turbocharged, depending on trim/year)
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended for Turbo models)
Engine Code 4G63:
4 = 4-cylinder, G = Family G engine, 6 = 6th generation, 3 = variant 3
Engine Code 4G63T:
T indicates Turbocharged variant
Engine 4G63 Architecture:
DOHC 16-valve head, cast-iron block, aluminum cylinder head, dual overhead camshafts.
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
AWD Transmission:
Available with a viscous coupling center differential for AWD models, often paired with a transfer case.
Transfer Case AWD:
Mechanical transfer case with a viscous coupling unit on AWD models to distribute power between front and rear axles.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil type (e.g., API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or similar)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific ATF type (e.g., ATF SP-III or equivalent)
Body Styles:
2-Door Coupe, 2-Door Convertible (less common)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.7 inches (2507 mm)
Length:
Approx. 171.3 inches (4351 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
Approx. 51.0 inches (1295 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,700 - 3,100 lbs (1225 - 1406 kg), varies by drivetrain and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle compliance plate
NHTSA Ratings:
Likely not extensively tested by NHTSA for these specific years, but typical for vehicles of its class. Refer to specific compliance data if available.
Active Safety Features:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some models, disc brakes front and rear.
Passive Safety Features:
Seat belts, reinforced safety cage construction, energy-absorbing steering column, potentially driver's side airbag on later models within this range (check specific trim).
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM stereo systems, optional cassette player, CD player (rare), manual climate controls. Typically no complex electronics found in modern vehicles.
Driver Assistance Features:
Very limited by modern standards. ABS was the primary advanced driver assistance feature available.
Connectivity Features:
None (no Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Timing Belt Interval:
Critical component on 4G63/4G63T engines. Usually every 60,000 miles or 5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for viscosity (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30) and API service rating (e.g., SG or SH).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific type (e.g., Mopar OAT or HOAT, or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific power steering fluid type (e.g., ATF or dedicated power steering fluid).
Differentials Fluid AWD:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil type for front and rear differentials on AWD models.
Known Issue Turbo Seals:
Turbocharger oil seals can degrade over time, leading to oil consumption and smoke, especially on high-mileage turbo models.
Known Issue Timing Belt:
As mentioned, critical maintenance item. Tensioner and idler pulley health should also be checked during timing belt replacement.
Known Issue Suspension Bushings:
Rubber suspension bushings can wear and degrade, leading to clunks, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
Known Issue Rust:
Common for vehicles of this era, particularly in areas prone to road salt. Areas like rocker panels, wheel wells, and strut towers are susceptible.
Known Issue Fuel Pump Relays:
Fuel pump relays can fail, leading to no-start conditions.
Known Issue Intercooler Hoses Turbo:
Turbocharged models can develop cracked or leaking intercooler hoses, affecting boost pressure and performance.
Known Issue Clutch Wear:
Clutches can wear over time, especially in performance-oriented driving. The manual will detail clutch inspection, removal, and replacement procedures.
Known Issue O2 Sensor Failure:
Oxygen sensors can degrade, affecting fuel economy and emissions. Manual provides testing procedures.
Brand Heritage Chrysler Mitsubishi Collaboration:
This generation of vehicles (and their Mitsubishi counterparts) marked a significant era for Chrysler's badge engineering partnerships, bringing globally competitive platforms to North America under Dodge, Plymouth, and Eagle brands.
Model Evolution First Gen:
This period represents the first generation of the Mitsubishi Eclipse platform, which was also sold as the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser. It succeeded smaller, front-wheel-drive coupes and sedans from both brands.
Production Years First Gen:
1989-1994 (Mitsubishi Eclipse), with Dodge/Plymouth/Eagle variants mirroring these years.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Normal, Illinois) and Japan
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The Mitsubishi Eclipse (and by extension, its siblings) was frequently lauded by automotive publications like Car and Driver for its performance and value, often appearing on '10 Best' lists in its category.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While the Eclipse itself may not have won, the platform was highly regarded and set benchmarks for Japanese performance coupes entering the US market.
