Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe / Liftback
Usp:
Affordable performance, sporty styling, available AWD and turbocharged engines, unique diamond-shaped cockpit
Competitors:
Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, Nissan 240SX, Ford Probe, Mazda MX-6
Design:
Aerodynamic styling, distinctive swept-back design, available pop-up headlights
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) options
Performance Variants:
Naturally aspirated and turbocharged ('Turbo' and 'GS-T' trims)
Interior Design:
Driver-focused 'fighter jet' cockpit layout with angled center console
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Coverage:
All models and trims for 1990-1991 Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eagle Talon
Detail Level:
Comprehensive A-Z repairs and maintenance
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific sub-model and engine, typically 1500-2500+ pages
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication, cooling, exhaust, engine control systems (ECU/ECM)
Transmission:
Manual transmission (5-speed), Automatic transmission (4-speed), clutch system, transfer case (AWD models)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging system, body electricals, instrument cluster, power accessories, HVAC controls
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, bumpers, chassis/frame structure
Maintenance:
Routine inspections, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, tune-up procedures
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnosis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical testing procedures
Repair:
Component removal and installation, assembly and disassembly of major systems, specific repair techniques
Adjustment:
Wheel alignment, throttle cable, parking brake, clutch pedal
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values
Depth:
Full diagnostic and repair procedures, including complex system overhauls and component rebuilds
Accuracy:
Dealer-level technical accuracy, derived from factory documentation
Target Audience:
Professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Base Engine:
2.0L 4G63 SOHC (non-turbo)
Base Engine Displacement:
1997 cc
Base Engine Power:
135 hp @ 6000 rpm
Base Engine Torque:
125 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Performance Engine 1:
2.0L 4G63 DOHC Turbo (GST)
Performance Engine 1 Displacement:
1997 cc
Performance Engine 1 Power:
195 hp @ 6000 rpm
Performance Engine 1 Torque:
203 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Performance Engine 2:
2.0L 4G63 DOHC (GS / GS-X)
Performance Engine 2 Displacement:
1997 cc
Performance Engine 2 Power:
145 hp @ 6000 rpm
Performance Engine 2 Torque:
134 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane for NA, 91+ octane recommended for Turbo)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on turbo models, Distributor ignition on NA models
ECU:
Proprietary Mitsubishi Engine Control Unit (ECU/ECM)
AWD Option:
Available on GS-X and GST models, featuring viscous coupling center differential
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate
Specification:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil (refer to manual for exact OEM spec)
Specification:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible ATF (refer to manual for exact OEM spec)
Length:
Approx. 174.6 inches (4435 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approx. 50.0 inches (1270 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.6 inches (2505 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.5 inches (140 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2800 - 3300 lbs (1270 - 1500 kg), varies by model/drivetrain
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 3800 - 4200 lbs (1725 - 1905 kg)
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 10.9 cu ft (liftback)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 85.0 cu ft
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4/5 stars (typical for era, refer to specific crash reports for exact data)
IIHS Ratings:
Not widely tested by IIHS during this period; focus on OEM safety features
ABS:
Available on GS-X and GST models, standard on some later models/markets
Traction Control:
Not typically available on this generation
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard, passenger airbag optional or standard on higher trims
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear seatbelts
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and B-pillars, and integrated roll bar behind seats
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette player, optional CD player, speakers typically 4-6 depending on trim
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC controls, optional automatic climate control on higher trims
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Connectivity Features:
Basic analog systems, no advanced connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type)
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years (CRITICAL for 4G63 engine - catastrophic failure if broken)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change (for 2.0L engines)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, compatible with Asian vehicle formulations (e.g., Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron II/III ATF or specific power steering fluid (check manual)
Common Issues 1:
Turbocharger failure (oil starvation, seal leaks), coolant leaks (hose degradation, radiator issues), turbo hose deterioration, clutch wear, ignition coil failure
Common Issues 2:
Corrosion on underbody and suspension components, interior trim wear, minor electrical gremlins (window motors, locks), fuel pump failure
Timing Belt Issue:
Crucial to follow timing belt replacement schedule due to interference engine design.
Mitsubishi Performance Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a long history in motorsports, notably with rally racing (Lancer Evolution), which influenced the performance aspects of the Eclipse.
Concept To Production:
Developed in collaboration with Chrysler as part of the 'Diamond Star Motors' joint venture, based on the Mitsubishi HSR-II concept car.
Platform Sharing:
Shared its platform and many components with the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser, produced at Diamond-Star Motors plant in Normal, Illinois.
Production Years:
1990-1994 (First Generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Diamond-Star Motors (DSM) Plant, Normal, Illinois, USA
Car And Driver 10Best:
Eclipse GS-T was named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 1991.
Motor Trend Import Car Of The Year:
Competed for Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year awards during its introduction.
Sales Performance:
Strong sales figures for its segment, contributing to the 'tuner car' culture.
