1995-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
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1995-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse ▼
- Price Range: $1,300 - $5,600
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1995-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration (GS-T, GSX)
- Optional antilock brakes
- Steering/handling
- All-wheel drive (GSX)
Cons
- Acceleration (RS, GS w/automatic)
- Rear-seat room
- Cargo room
- Road noise
Vehicle Highlights
Still mechanically similar to the Eagle Talon, the redesigned 1995 Eclipse got dual airbags, more-rounded styling, a larger interior, and a new base engine. Although the coupe's wheelbase grew by 1.6 inches, it measured slightly shorter overall. Eclipse came in four models. The base RS, GS, and GS-T had front-wheel drive, while the top-line GSX was equipped with all-wheel drive. All models had 5-speed manual transmission or optional 4-speed automatic. The RS and GS used a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. GS-T and GSX models used a turbocharged 4-cylinder, rated at 205 or 210 horsepower. Antilock brakes were optional on all models.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Mitsubishi Eclipse GS 5-speed Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 7 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 2 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 43 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1995-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1995-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Year to Year Changes
1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse:
Spyder convertibles debuted during the spring of '96, in GS and GS-T form. Whereas the GS coupe used a Chrysler 140-horsepower, 2.0-liter engine, the GS Spyder adopted a 2.4-liter engine that made 141 horsepower. The GS-T Spyder, like the higher-performance coupe, got a turbocharged Mitsubishi-built 2.0-liter, rated at 210 horsepower. Both Spyders included a power top with a glass rear window and electric defroster, plus power windows and door locks.
1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse:
Facelifting included larger air intakes, more of a bulge in the front fascia and tail panel, reworked headlights, and revised lower-body cladding. Turbo coupes got a higher-profile rear spoiler.
1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse:
The Eclipse was a virtual rerun, following the previous year's styling update.
1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse:
With the Eagle Talon gone, Eclipse carried on alone. Changes for '99 included white-faced gauges on GSX and GS-T models and standard and optional equipment shuffles. A redesigned Eclipse appeared for 2000.
Our road test for the 1995-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1995-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1995-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
The base engine revs smoothly and quickly without excess noise, but it's no powerhouse. Therefore, acceleration with the automatic transmission is marginal for freeway on-ramps and in passing sprints. Progress is livelier with the slick-shifting 5-speed manual gearbox. Turbos are decidedly faster. Unfortunately, Eclipse still suffers from some "turbo lag." All Eclipse models offer nimble handling, good grip, and quick, accurate steering. On the downside, the ride turns choppy on freeways and rough roads, especially on turbocharged models. You also must endure plenty of road noise. All-wheel-drive models are capable of exhibiting race carlike moves, of the sort matched only by big-buck coupes. Front occupants have adequate head room but may still feel crowded. The tiny back seat is strictly for preteens. The dashboard is well laid out, except for a center-mounted stereo unit that's too low. Cargo space is adequate, but with a tall liftover for loading and unloading. Spyder convertibles look sharp, and deliver fun-in-the-sun driving at a comparatively reasonable price. Unfortunately, several convertibles we've driven have suffered from serious shakiness, even when rolling down smooth roads.
Value for the Money
Though still one of the best sports coupes, the competition caught up with Eclipse during its second generation. Other than the all-wheel-drive model, this version of the Eclipse offers nothing you can't get for less money somewhere else.
Though still one of the best sports coupes, the competition caught up with Eclipse during its second generation. Other than the all-wheel-drive model, this version of the Eclipse offers nothing you can't get for less money somewhere else.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Mitsubishi Eclipse GS 5-speed Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 7 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 2 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 43 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Mitsubishi Eclipse includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Mitsubishi Eclipse .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air springs:
The front springs make creaking, popping, or squeaking noises when going over bumps requiring insulators to be installed on the upper coils. (1995-99)
Crankshaft:
Rough idling, difficulty shifting due to thrust bearing wear and crankshaft movement (fore/aft) also known as "crank walk.Ó (1995-99)
Engine misfire:
Misfiring is common due to carbon on the spark plugs and is corrected by replacing the plugs and plug wires. (1995)
Fuel pump:
Noisy fuel pump may be result of a bad fuel-pressure regulator. (1995)
Fuel pump:
The vehicle is sensitive to fuel starvation caused by a clogged in-tank filter. (1995-97)
Rear axle noise:
Squeaking, rubbing, knocking, or tapping noises from the rear are eliminated by replacing the trailing-arm bushings (1995-97) or the shock-absorber insulator assembly. (1997-98)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $600 |
| Alternator | $360 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $975 |
| Brakes | $310 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $415 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $770 |
| Exhaust System | $350 |
| Radiator | $470 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $520 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $260 |
Our price chart for this generation Mitsubishi Eclipse details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1999 | |||
| Eclipse GS-T, GSX | $4,900-6,000 | $4,200-5,100 | $1,900-2,300 |
| Eclipse RS, GS | $3,200-4,000 | $2,500-3,100 | $800-1,000 |
| Spyder convertible | $5,400-6,500 | $4,600-5,600 | $2,200-2,700 |
| 1998 | |||
| Eclipse GS-T, GSX | $4,100-5,300 | $3,400-4,300 | $1,400-1,700 |
| Eclipse RS, GS | $2,800-3,500 | $2,100-2,600 | $600-800 |
| Spyder convertible | $4,500-5,600 | $3,700-4,600 | $1,600-2,000 |
| 1997 | |||
| Eclipse GS-T, GSX | $3,700-4,800 | $3,000-3,900 | $1,100-1,400 |
| Eclipse base, RS, GS | $2,500-3,200 | $1,800-2,300 | $500-700 |
| Spyder convertible | $4,000-4,700 | $3,300-3,900 | $1,300-1,500 |
| 1996 | |||
| Eclipse GS-T, GSX | $3,200-4,000 | $2,500-3,100 | $800-1,000 |
| Eclipse RS, GS | $2,200-2,900 | $1,600-2,100 | $400-600 |
| Spyder convertible | $3,400-4,100 | $2,700-3,200 | $900-1,100 |
| 1995 | |||
| Eclipse GS-T, GSX | $2,700-3,500 | $2,000-2,600 | $600-800 |
| Eclipse RS, GS | $1,900-2,600 | $1,300-1,800 | $300-400 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Mitsubishi Eclipse include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | 2-door hatchback |
| Wheelbase, in. | 98.8 | 98.8 |
| Overall Length, in. | 172.2 | 172.2 |
| Overall Width, in. | 68.3 | 68.3 |
| Overall Height, in. | 51.6 | 50.2 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2888 | 2767 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 5.1 | 16.6 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 16.9 | 16.9 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | 4 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.7 | 37.9 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 43.3 | 43.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 34.9 | 34.3 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 28.4 | 28.4 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
All Eclipse coupes held a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with dual overhead camshafts. The normally aspirated engine in RS and GS models developed 140 horsepower. A turbocharged 2.0-liter engine went into GS-T and GSX models, making 210 horsepower (205 horsepower when equipped with an automatic transmission). Spyder GS convertible used a different engine: 2.4 liters and 141 horsepower. A 5-speed manual transmission was standard in all models, with 4-speed automatic optional.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I4 | 2.0 / 122 | 140 | 130 | 5-speed manual: 22/33 4-speed automatic: 21/31 |
5-speed manual: 27.5 4-speed automatic: -- |
| Turbocharged dohc I4 | 2.0 / 122 | 205-210 | 214 | 5-speed manual: 23/31 4-speed automatic: 20/27 |
5-speed manual: 22.7 4-speed automatic: 18.4 |
| dohc I4 | 2.4 / 143 | 141 | 148 | 4-speed manual: 20/28 5-speed manual: 22/30 |
4-speed manual: -- 5-speed manual: 21.5 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front- or all-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Mitsubishi Eclipse include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1999 Eclipse |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1995-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1995-96:
Incorrectly installed gaskets for fuel pump and/or gauge unit could allow fuel or fumes to escape.
1995-96:
Rubber boots on lower ball joint can become damaged, allowing dirt and water intrusion, which can cause excessive wear and possible separation.
1995-98 w/AWD:
Lockup of transfer case can occur, due to insufficient lubrication.
1997:
On a few cars, improperly welded passenger head-restraint support bracket on passenger side can break.
1998:
Dash-panel pad can shift, interfering with throttle-cable control.
1998-00 Spyder:
Bilingual English/Spanish removable airbag warning labels on dashboard and sunvisor do meet size requirements.
1999:
The battery-cable wiring harness can become heat damaged, leading to malfunctions in the turn signals and oil-pressure lamp.
1999:
The steering-column multifunction switch levers can become loose or break.
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