Segment:
Compact sports convertible.
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers seeking performance, style, and open-air driving experience.
Key Competitors:
Mazda MX-5 Miata, Toyota MR2 Spyder, Ford Mustang Convertible, Chevrolet Camaro Convertible.
Convertible Top:
Power-operated soft top with optional hardtop availability.
Styling:
Aggressive, sporty design influenced by Japanese tuner culture.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic and manual), drivetrain components.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, infotainment, power windows, power seats, convertible top operation, body control modules, wiring diagrams.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, convertible top mechanisms, doors, windows, locks, bumpers.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, steering component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting for various systems, electrical system diagnostic flowcharts.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, tolerances, clearances, electrical specifications.
Depth:
Designed for professional technicians; covers detailed diagnostic procedures, component testing, and complete disassembly/reassembly of major vehicle systems.
Gs Transmission:
5-Speed Manual
Gs Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic
Gt Transmission:
5-Speed Manual
AWD:
Not available on Spyder models.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Refer to manual for specific Mitsubishi specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Diamond SP-III or equivalent (Refer to manual for specific Mitsubishi specification)
Length:
Approximately 170.4 inches
Width:
Approximately 70.1 inches
Height:
Approximately 53.3 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 100.4 inches
Seating Capacity:
4 passengers (2+2 configuration)
Trunk Volume Convertible Up:
Approximately 6.5 cubic feet
Curb Weight Gs:
Approximately 3042 lbs
Curb Weight Gt:
Approximately 3131 lbs
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 2000 model year by NHTSA.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 2000 model year by IIHS.
ABS:
Standard on GT, optional on GS
Traction Control:
Optional on GT
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear seatbelts
Roll Over Protection:
Pop-up roll bars behind front seats (integrated into A-pillar structure)
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player and cassette deck. Rockford Fosgate premium audio optional on GT.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems available depending on trim level.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Bluetooth:
Not available in this model year.
Keyless Entry:
Available on higher trim levels.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (standard tune-up plugs) or 60,000 miles (platinum tipped plugs).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (for 4G63T engine, crucial for turbo models).
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 API SJ or ILSAC GF-2
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based)
Power Steering Fluid:
DEXRON III or equivalent
Convertible Top Motors:
Potential for wear and failure of the power convertible top hydraulic system and motors.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
On turbo models (4G63T), tensioner failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage if the timing belt breaks.
Subframe Corrosion:
Corrosion can affect the front subframe, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt.
ABS Sensors:
Wheel speed sensor failure can lead to ABS warning lights and system malfunction.
Manufacturer:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, Japan.
Generation Context:
The third generation Eclipse Spyder marked a significant redesign from the previous generation, with a more rounded and aerodynamically sculpted body.
Platform:
Shared platform with the Chrysler Sebring Convertible and Dodge Stratus Coupe during this generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Bloomington, Illinois, USA (for North American market)
Production Years:
1999-2005 (Third Generation)
Previous Generation Awards:
The previous generation Eclipse (especially the GST/GSR turbo models) was often praised for its performance and tuner-friendliness.
Car And Driver Comparison:
While specific awards for the 2000 Spyder are scarce, it was generally considered a capable competitor in its segment, though sometimes outpaced by more focused sports cars.
