Segment:
Compact sports coupe/convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional automotive technicians.
Competitors:
Mazda MX-6, Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, Nissan 240SX, Ford Probe.
Design Philosophy:
Aerodynamic styling, front-engine, front-wheel drive (or optional all-wheel drive), sporty handling.
Unique Selling Points:
Available turbocharged engines, optional AWD, distinctive styling, aggressive performance for its class.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (dismantling, assembly, inspection), engine management systems (EFI, ignition), emissions control systems, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system.
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (F5M33, F5M23), automatic transmission (A543), clutch system, transfer case (for AWD models).
Drivetrain Systems:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), All-wheel drive (AWD) system, differentials, driveshafts, axles.
Suspension And Steering:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (independent multi-link), power steering system, steering column.
Brake Systems:
Front disc brakes, rear drum/disc brakes (depending on trim), anti-lock braking system (ABS) for equipped models, parking brake.
Electrical Systems:
12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, instrumentation, power windows, power door locks, audio system wiring, fuse box and relay locations.
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, diagnosis, and repair.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, glass replacement.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups), spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, fluid checks and changes.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, fuel injector service.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.
Special Tools:
Identification of specific tools required for certain repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagrams, specifications, and diagnostic procedures.
Engine 1 Code:
4G63 (DOHC)
Engine 1 Type:
2.0L Inline-4 Turbocharged
Engine 1 Displacement:
1997 cc
Engine 1 Horsepower:
195 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
203 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
8.5:1
Engine 2 Code:
4G63 (SOHC)
Engine 2 Type:
2.0L Inline-4 Naturally Aspirated
Engine 2 Displacement:
1997 cc
Engine 2 Horsepower:
135 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
137 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with distributor
Transmission Type Base:
5-speed manual
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed automatic
AWD Availability:
Available on turbocharged models with 5-speed manual transmission.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85 (check specific manual for exact fill).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen J3 or equivalent ATF SP-II (check specific manual for exact fill).
Length:
Approx. 172.2 inches (4374 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approx. 50.0 inches (1270 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.7 inches (2507 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2800 - 3100 lbs (1270 - 1406 kg), varies by trim and drivetrain.
Wheel Size Base:
16 inch alloy wheels
Tire Size Base:
205/55R16
Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
NHTSA Ratings:
N/A (Crash testing protocols and reporting were different in 1991; specific NHTSA ratings not readily available for this model year.)
Braking:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some models.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard on most models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage construction.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (using API SG or equivalent).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs; platinum plugs may have longer intervals (check specific engine). Recommended plug: NGK BKR6E-11 (for turbo) or BKR5E-11 (for NA).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years for the 4G63 engine. This is a critical maintenance item.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change (for 4G63 engines). Verify in manual.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (green) with a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Turbo Seal Failure:
Premature turbocharger seal failure can lead to oil consumption and smoking, often due to heat and lack of proper cool-down procedures.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Failure of the timing belt tensioner can cause belt slippage and catastrophic engine damage.
Oxygen Sensor Failure:
Oxygen sensors can degrade over time, affecting fuel economy and emissions.
Power Steering Pump Leaks:
Common leaks can develop from the power steering pump or hoses.
Clutch Wear:
Clutch wear is typical for manual transmissions, especially in performance-oriented driving.
Mitsubishi Motors History:
Mitsubishi Motors has a long history of automotive production, known for its engineering prowess, especially in turbocharged engines and four-wheel-drive systems.
Eclipse Generation 1:
The first generation Eclipse (1990-1994) was a collaboration between Mitsubishi and Chrysler (Diamond-Star Motors). It was available as a coupe and later a convertible (Spyder).
1991 Model Year Updates:
The 1991 model year saw minor refinements, including potentially new wheel designs or minor trim adjustments. The core mechanicals and styling remained consistent with the 1990 launch.
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant)
