Original Segment:
Sport Compact / Affordable Performance
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking performance and style in a practical package.
Key Competitors 1990S:
Honda Civic Si, Acura Integra, Toyota Celica, Nissan Sentra SE-R, Ford Mustang (certain trims)
Performance Variants:
Available in naturally aspirated and turbocharged (GST/GSX) variants, offering a compelling power-to-weight ratio.
Styling:
Distinctive two-door coupe (and later hatchback) styling with a focus on aerodynamic lines.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform and powertrain components with the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser, part of the Diamond-Star Motors joint venture.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Ignition System, Lubrication System
Drivetrain:
Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Transfer Case (AWD models), Driveshafts, CV Joints, Axles
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension (MacPherson Strut), Rear Suspension (Multi-link), Power Steering System, Steering Gearbox/Rack and Pinion
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Disc Brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) (if equipped), Brake System Hydraulics
Electrical:
12V Battery System, Charging System (Alternator), Starting System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Power Windows/Locks, Audio System, ECU/ECM Diagnostics
Body Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Chassis Frame, Welding and Repair
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning System Diagnosis and Repair
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Replacement, Fluid Checks and Top-offs
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-based Diagnosis, DTC Code Explanations (OBD-I)
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Component Replacement (e.g., Alternator, Starter, Radiator), Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement
Diagnostics:
Electrical Circuit Diagrams, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing, Scan Tool Usage
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive; suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers detailed disassembly, reassembly, specifications, and torque values.
Engine Code 1:
4G63 (Naturally Aspirated)
Engine Displacement 1:
2.0 Liters (1997cc)
Engine Configuration 1:
Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC
Horsepower 1:
135 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque 1:
125 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine Code 2:
4G63T (Turbocharged)
Engine Displacement 2:
2.0 Liters (1997cc)
Engine Configuration 2:
Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, Turbocharged, Intercooled
Horsepower 2:
195 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque 2:
203 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane minimum, 91+ Octane recommended for Turbo)
NHTSA Rating Driver Front:
Not available for this generation/era
IIHS Rating:
Not available for this generation/era
ABS:
Optional on lower trims, standard on performance models (GSX, GST)
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard from 1990. Passenger airbag optional/later addition.
Seat Belts:
Three-point front seat belts, two-point rear seat belts (later models may have three-point rear)
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM Cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configuration.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, coolant temperature. Warning lights for various systems.
Cruise Control:
Optional on many trims.
Traction Control:
Not typically available on this generation.
OBD Standard:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, First Generation)
Diagnostics Interface:
Diagnostic connector located under the dash, requires specialized code reader or jumper for retrieving codes.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (under normal driving conditions)
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace at every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (standard plugs), potentially longer for platinum/iridium
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years (CRITICAL for 4G63/4G63T engines to prevent catastrophic damage)
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for exact viscosity based on temperature)
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene Glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar/Mitsubishi Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF SP-III or equivalent (Consult manual for precise specification)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF
Common Issues 1:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), turbocharger wear/failure (on turbo models), CV joint wear, rust on unibody/wheel wells.
Common Issues 2:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), aging fuel injectors, power window motor failure, degradation of vacuum lines.
Common Issues 3:
Clutch wear, differential leaks (especially AWD models), electrical gremlins due to age.
Mitsubishi Motors History:
Part of the larger Mitsubishi conglomerate with a history in shipbuilding, heavy industry, and later automotive manufacturing.
Eclipse Introduction:
Launched in 1990 as Mitsubishi's entry into the affordable sports coupe market, designed and developed in collaboration with Chrysler.
Styling Design:
Penned by Mitsubishi designer Kiyoshi Shinzaki, emphasizing a low-slung, aerodynamic silhouette.
Performance Development:
The turbocharged GS-T and GSX models quickly gained a following for their accessible performance tuning potential, particularly the robust 4G63T engine.
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant)
Production Years:
1990-1994 (First Generation)
Car And Driver 10Best:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list in 1991.
Automotive Journalism Praise:
Widely praised for its handling, performance (especially turbo models), and styling upon release.
Reliability Perception:
Generally considered reliable when properly maintained, though specific issues like the timing belt are well-known.
