Market Position:
Sport Compact/Coupe, offering performance variants (GT, GTS, GSX) appealing to enthusiasts.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with vehicles like the Honda Civic Si, Acura Integra GS-R, Toyota Celica GT-S, and Ford Mustang. The GSX variant with its turbocharged engine and AWD was a significant performance benchmark in its class.
Key Features:
Stylized design, available turbocharged engine (4G63T), optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD), independent front and rear suspension, performance-oriented trims.
Systems Covered:
Engine (4G63 DOHC Turbo, 4G64 SOHC), Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (FWD & AWD), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS & Non-ABS), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Climate Control (HVAC), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, ECUs), Body & Chassis, Interior Trim, SRS Airbag System, Diagnostic Procedures, Specifications & Torque Values
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Brake Service, Suspension & Steering Alignment, Electrical Diagnostics, Body Panel Repair, Climate Control Servicing, SRS System Troubleshooting, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation, Component Replacement, Fluid Changes, Lubrication Schedules
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks and adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical troubleshooting with wiring diagrams, and bodywork procedures.
Engine 1 Code:
4G63 (Non-Turbo)
Engine 1 Type:
2.4L SOHC Inline-4
Engine 1 Displacement:
2351 cc (143 cu in)
Engine 1 Hp:
145 hp @ 5500 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
150 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Engine 2 Code:
4G63T (Turbocharged)
Engine 2 Type:
2.0L DOHC Inline-4 (Turbocharged)
Engine 2 Displacement:
1997 cc (122 cu in)
Engine 2 Hp:
205 hp @ 6000 rpm (GSX)
Engine 2 Torque:
205 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (GSX)
Engine Management:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane recommended for Turbo)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection
Transmission Standard FWD:
5-Speed Manual (FWD Models)
Transmission Standard AWD:
5-Speed Manual (AWD GSX Models)
Transmission Optional FWD:
4-Speed Automatic (FWD Models)
Transmission Optional AWD:
4-Speed Automatic (AWD GSX Models - less common)
AWD System:
Viscous coupling center differential with Torsen limited-slip rear differential on GSX models
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
4 Stars (1999 Model Year)
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
4 Stars (1999 Model Year)
ABS:
Available (Standard on GSX, optional on GT/GTS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags (SRS)
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front occupants.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. (Consult manual for specifics)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 90,000 miles for 4G63T engine. Consult manual for 4G64. Crucial for preventing catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 (or 10W-30 depending on temperature). Consult manual for exact viscosity grade. Synthetic oil recommended for turbo models.
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with demineralized water)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-3 or GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Consult manual for exact specification and capacity)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
DIAQUEEN ATF SP-II (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid). Consult manual for exact specification and capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine 4G63T Common Issues:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially on earlier '90s models but can affect later ones), turbocharger issues (oil seals, wastegate actuator), oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, exhaust manifold cracks.
Suspension Common Issues:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends leading to alignment issues and premature tire wear. Rear shock absorber leaks.
Electrical Common Issues:
Window regulators, power lock actuators, and headlight switch failures. Corroded grounds.
Rust Common Issues:
Wheel wells, rocker panels, and rear quarter panels are susceptible to rust in areas with road salt.
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi Motors has a long history of producing robust vehicles, with a focus on performance and rally racing heritage, notably with models like the Lancer Evolution.
Model Evolution Second Gen:
The second generation Eclipse (1995-1999) represented a significant redesign from the first generation, moving to a more aerodynamic and rounded styling. It was co-developed with Chrysler's.’” DSM (Diamond-Star Motors) platform and shared components with the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser.
Production Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (at Diamond-Star Motors plant)
Production Years:
1995-1999
