It is very difficult to pass indifferently past the Mitsubishi Eclipse. This striking car differs from many others with its unique style and original design.
First generation
Mitsubishi Eclipse premiered in 1989. The first generation was indexed as 1G. This car was assembled on the basis of the well-known Galant VR-4, which brought fame to the Mitsubishi rally team in the early 90s. As conceived by the designers, it was intended for fans of high-speed driving who cannot afford expensive sports cars. The idea was successful and was enthusiastically accepted by motorists.
Everything about this car underlines its sporty character: a dynamic two-door coupé body, front optics, smoothly rising upward, a graceful rear wing. The salon of the first cars was designed for two passengers, and, moreover, a wide range of adjustments in the driver's seat allowed even a very tall person to get comfortable behind the wheel.
Mitsubishi Eclipse is inferior in size to its predecessor, but due to the reinforced body and roll cage around the entire perimeter of the car, slightly exceeds it in weight. The entire structure of the car is thought out in such a way that the impact energy in the event of a collision is significantly reduced.
The car was equipped with a four-cylinder 4G63 engine in three versions that had no analogues at that time. The 92-horsepower naturally aspirated 1.8 liter engine with acceleration to 100 km in 11 seconds was clearly too weak for a powerful sports car. Another, more powerful with a two-liter engine, 140-horsepower and exactly the same, but with a turbocharger function.
The transmission, electronics and ECU went to Galant's Eclipse. A precise rack and pinion control, equipped with a hydraulic booster, provokes a fast ride. This is also facilitated by the rigid suspension that holds the car well even when maneuvering at very high speeds, called Multi-Link.
It is interesting that the Eclipse had a clearance of 160 mm high enough for this class of cars.
Second generation
The second generation of Eclipse under the 2G index appeared in 1995 with very serious updates.
First of all, it distinguished itself by the fact that the number of versions of the car was reduced. The 1.8 liter engine was discontinued, the 2 liter engine was left unchanged, but the power of the turbocharged version was significantly increased. Both front- and all-wheel drive vehicles were produced.
In 1996, Mitsubishi added the Spyder convertible with a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter engine and a turbocharged 2.0-liter.
In 1997, the Eclipse underwent minor changes: the car received a new front bumper with a large air intake and fog lights, and the 16-inch wheels were replaced by 17-inch ones. The computer and motor control software has been completely redesigned. Now the cars of the second generation could be considered samples made in the best traditions of biodesign.
Third generation
A year later, the concept Mitsubishi SST was presented to the public at the annual Detroit Auto Show. The new design direction, called the geomechanical style, is reflected in the striking coupé. A serial 3G car appeared on its basis. It has become leaner, with embossed sides and prominent wheel arches, its silhouette has become even more impetuous. The body has become more spacious and comfortable.
The line of power units is represented by an atmospheric 2.4-liter engine with a capacity of 149 horses and a 3-liter engine with 203 horsepower. Four-wheel drive cars are discontinued during this period.
The car begins to simplify, adjusting to the common consumer. In particular, the design of the chassis is simplified. The interior design is original, especially for the instrument panel with separate wells for fuel level and coolant temperature gauges. The driver's seat is made of leather and equipped with electric adjustments. Everything testifies to the beginning of a new era in car design - the era of the "techno" style.
In 2001, on the basis of the new Eclipse, they began to produce the Spyder, which debuted at the Detroit auto show. It is equipped with a 3-liter engine with 147 horsepower. Its basic equipment includes a full electric package, air conditioning, cruise control, traction control and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Fourth generation
In 2004, the public was shown the Mitsubishi Eclipse Concept-E, heralding the fourth generation. The latest generation Eclipse looks a lot like this concept car. This also applies to the shape and design of the headlights and the C-pillar, which gradually merges into the body. Along with this, a new brand emblem and a completely different design of the rear part of the body appeared. In addition, it now has a full glass sunroof.
But the major updates are underneath the body panels. This is a new hybrid powertrain called E-Boost. The regular mode is represented by a 3.8-liter engine with an updated variable valve timing system with a capacity of 270 horsepower. For sharp acceleration, the electronic system connects a 200-horsepower electric motor, which makes the rear wheels move. The power of such an installation can reach 470 horses. In a sense, it replaces all-wheel drive. It also contributes to more economical fuel consumption.
