Positioning:
Sport compact segment; positioned as an affordable, performance-oriented coupe and convertible.
Competitors:
Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, Nissan 240SX, Mazda MX-6, Ford Probe.
Engineering:
Shared platform with Chrysler's Dodge/Plymouth divisions (DSM), featuring Mitsubishi powertrains and chassis design.
Design:
Sleek, aerodynamic styling; available in coupe and convertible body styles.
Engine:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU), Fuel System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Emission Control System.
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (5-speed), Automatic Transmission (4-speed), Drivetrain (FWD and AWD).
Brakes:
Front and Rear Brake Systems (Disc Brakes), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - where equipped.
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension (MacPherson Strut), Rear Suspension (Independent Multi-link), Power Steering System, Steering Gear.
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Fuses and Relays, Lighting System, Instrument Cluster, Audio System, Power Accessories, Battery and Charging System.
Body Chassis:
Body Exterior and Interior Trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Seats, Restraint System (Airbags - driver's side only on some early models).
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance Intervals, Oil and Filter Change, Spark Plug Replacement, Air Filter Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Flush.
Repair:
Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhaul, Clutch Replacement, Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for Engine Control, Symptoms and Causes for Common Problems, Electrical System Troubleshooting Charts.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed specifications and diagnostic procedures.
Engine 1 Description:
2.0L DOHC Turbocharged Inline-4 (Non-intercooled for early 90-91 models, intercooled introduced later).
Engine 1 Horsepower:
195 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Engine 1 Torque:
203 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2 Description:
2.0L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Inline-4.
Engine 2 Horsepower:
135 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2 Torque:
135 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approx.)
Aspiration:
Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Wheelbase:
100.4 inches (2550 mm)
Length:
175.8 inches (4465 mm)
Width:
69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
51.2 inches (1300 mm)
Curb Weight Min:
2800 lbs (approx. for NA FWD)
Curb Weight Max:
3200 lbs (approx. for Turbo AWD)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not specified in general product info, but covered in the manual.
NHTSA Ratings:
Ratings for this specific generation are not readily available in general product information; detailed safety tests and performance figures would be in the manual.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard; passenger airbag not available on these early models.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette player with optional CD player. Basic speaker systems.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control with A/C; optional automatic climate control on higher trims.
Early Electronics:
Limited to basic vehicle electronics and optional power accessories. No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specifics).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000 miles or 5 years for the 4G63 engine (critical to prevent catastrophic engine damage).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with rust inhibitors; typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4; SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent.
Turbo Models Pre Intercooler:
Potential for detonation on early non-intercooled turbo models due to higher intake air temperatures; proper fuel quality is crucial. Intercooler upgrade is a common modification.
Headgaskets:
While the 4G63 is robust, head gasket issues can occur, especially on heavily modified or neglected turbo models.
Rust:
Common for vehicles of this era, particularly in rust-prone climates, affecting wheel wells, rocker panels, and rear quarter panels.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or degradation of electrical connectors can lead to intermittent issues.
Mitsubishi Motorsport:
Mitsubishi has a strong rally heritage, with the 4G63 engine becoming legendary in motorsport, particularly in the Lancer Evolution series.
Dsm Collaboration:
The Eclipse, Talon, and Laser were part of the Diamond-Star Motors (DSM) joint venture between Chrysler and Mitsubishi.
First Generation:
This 1990-1991 model represents the first generation of the Eclipse platform.
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (DSM Plant)