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THE 1998 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE
CONTINUES TO OUTSHINE ITS COMPETITORS
A Long List of Features Makes This Sports Coupe
and Convertible a Great Performance Value
Since its introduction as one of the first new cars of the 1990's, the Mitsubishi Eclipse has consistently put other sports coupes in its shadow. Athletic good looks and available turbocharged power allow Eclipse to outshine its competitors not only at stoplights, but as the hottest-selling international nameplate in its class. And for 1998, the Eclipse coupe and Eclipse Spyder convertible will undoubtedly overshadow them again. Eclipse's phenomenal success is partly due to an exterior design that could easily double as an auto show concept car. Introduced in 1995 and extensively updated last year by its designers in Southern California, the current generation Eclipse is a real head-turner. From the aggressive front fascia with large air intakes, flowing side panels and roof line, to its trademark full-width taillamps, Eclipse is as functional as it is fashionable. In fact, Eclipse coupes have a very low 0.30 drag coefficient, allowing them to easily slip through the air.
VARIETY - Buy The Eclipse Here
The Eclipse's popularity is also due to a wide model range that fits a variety of buyers. Four Eclipse coupe and two Eclipse Spyder convertible models allow choices -- from normally aspirated or turbocharged engines, two- or all-wheel drive, to coupe and convertible configurations - that he U.S.-assembled Eclipse has the styling, performance and handling that make it a great form of rapid transit. Where Eclipse really surpasses others in its class is an unsurpassed combination of performance and value. Its available turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive is unusual for any sports coupe, let alone in this price range; and every Eclipse model has a sophisticated four-wheel independent, multi-link suspension system, providing a balance of sporty handling plus a smooth ride. Eclipse isn't all about fun -- it offers practicality, too. There's a long list of safety equipment, including dual front air bags, 3-point safety belts for all passengers and safety-cage body construction with side-guard door beams. Additionally, its 2+2 seating configuration and conveniently shaped cargo areas allow it to "haul" in more ways than one. Every Eclipse model offers a long list of standard features that allow it to be just as value-oriented as it is sporty.
ECLIPSE COUPE - Buy The Eclipse Here
Engines
Depending on the model, the 1998 Eclipse coupe is powered by one of three different 4-cylinder engines:
Both Eclipse coupe engines share the following features: cast iron block with an aluminum cylinder head for reduced weight and improved cooling, 4-valves-per-cylinder for improved breathing characteristics, electronically controlled sequential fuel injection, and hydraulic valve lash adjusters that eliminate the need for periodic adjustment. In addition, the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is equipped with Dual Engine Stabilizers, counter-rotating shafts inside the engine block that offset the vibrations typical of large displacement 4-cylinder engines.
Transmissions - Buy The Eclipse Here
A 5-speed manual gearbox is standard for all Eclipse models, with an optional 4-speed automatic with overdrive. When fitted to the turbocharged and intercooled 2.0-liter engine in Eclipse GS-T and GSX, the automatic transmission includes adaptive transmission control and an electronic engine/transmission interactive control system. The adaptive control ensures that the transmission maintains the appropriate gear when climbing hills, virtually eliminating the sporadic "hunting" between gears that is common to many automatics. Additionally, the system resists shifting during cornering, and will downshift automatically for engine braking when the vehicle is traveling down hills. This automatic also "talks" to the engine through the electronic control engine management computer, allowing the engine to pause for a split second during shifts. The result is reduced shift shock during normal driving and allows more consistent and coordinated performance during hard acceleration. To maximize fuel economy, all Eclipse automatic transmissions have an electronically activated lock-up torque converter clutch.
Suspensions - Buy The Eclipse Here
Eclipse's excellent handling and well-damped ride are the result of a sophisticated, four-wheel independent multi-link suspension with coil springs both front and rear. The multi-link design is particularly adept at keeping the tires perpendicular to the road. Whether cornering, braking, accelerating or travelling over rough pavement, the tires maintain a firm, consistent grip on the pavement. All Eclipse models include a front stabilizer bar to reduce body roll when cornering. Eclipse GS, GS-T, and GSX are supplemented with a rear stabilizer bar for even sharper reflexes and a flatter cornering attitude. The handling of each Eclipse coupe model is individually tuned by sizing the bars to the specific tire profile. The result is an excellent balance of handling and ride quality. Eclipse GS-T and GSX take suspension tuning one step further with specially calibrated gas-charged shock absorbers with low-speed valving.
Brakes - Buy The Eclipse Here
For improved heat dissipation and enhanced braking performance during severe conditions such as mountainous driving, every Eclipse is equipped with power-assisted fully ventilated front disc brakes. Eclipse GS, GS-T and GSX are fitted with solid rear discs as well. Reflecting its high performance capabilities, the all-wheel drive Eclipse GSX features two-piston front calipers, and both the front and rear discs are nearly an inch larger in diameter. A four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is optional on all models except Eclipse RS.
Steering - Buy The Eclipse Here
Eclipse features an advanced power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system with a quick-reacting 2.4 turns (2.35 turns for Eclipse GSX) lock-to-lock. Steering boost is engine-speed sensitive, subtly decreasing power assist as engine speed increases, to combine easier low-speed maneuvering with improved road feel at highway speeds.
All-Wheel Drive - Buy The Eclipse Here
Eclipse GSX maintains incredible grip and roadholding, regardless of whether the pavement is dry, wet or snow-covered through the use of a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. Eclipse GSX features a center differential and viscous coupling that typically splits torque 50/50 between the front and rear axles. Also available is a limited-slip differential that shifts power to the left or right, according to available traction. When the GSX encounters slippery condtions, power is automatically apportioned through viscous action to the wheels with better traction.
Eclipse RS and Eclipse GS - Buy The Eclipse Here
Even the least expensive models in the line, the Eclipse RS and GS, are far from being "base." Both are powered by a gutsy 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve engine that produces 140 horsepower, with a choice of a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. Where many sports coupes in its price range might be considered somewhat austere, the entry level Eclipse RS has body color bumpers, full wheel covers you'd swear were alloys, dual sideview mirrors and a rear window defroster. Inside, there are woven cloth bucket seats, a full console with dual cupholders, even an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player and six speakers. And through two different option packages, RS buyers can add everything from air conditioning, alloy wheels, a cargo cover and rear spoiler, to power windows, power door locks and cruise control. Eclipse GS can be identified by its 16-inch tires, four-wheel disc brakes, rear stabilizer bar, low-profile rear spoiler, side cladding, fog lights and 50/50 split rear seat. There's even a 3-channel Mitsubishi HomeLink® Universal Transmitter built into the driver's sun visor. Selecting one of three option packages adds a variety of equipment from air conditioning, alloy wheels, power window and locks, cruise control and power sunroof, to leather front seating surfaces, a Mitsubishi/Infinity® premium audio system with eight speakers, a remote keyless entry/security system and anti-lock brakes.
THE GS-T AND GSX - Buy The Eclipse Here
At the upper end of the line are the Eclipse GS-T and GSX. Producing up to 210-horsepower from a turbocharged and intercooled, 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve engine, this dynamic duo put their high profile rear spoilers way out in front of Celica, 240SX or Prelude. And, the Eclipse GSX all-wheel drive system has the all-weather ability to get that power to its huge, 17-inch alloy wheels in the most efficient, effective manner possible. Eclipse GS-T is identified by its chrome-plated 16-inch alloy Wheels, sport seats with stylish patterned cloth and standard equipment such as cruise control and power windows and door locks. There's even a Mitsubishi/Infinity® premium AM/FM eight-speaker stereo with separate amplifier and both cassette and compact disc players. Meanwhile, the all-wheel-drive GSX adds several GS-T options -- leather seat trim, power up-and-over glass sunroof, and remote, keyless entry security system -- as standard equipment.
The Spyder GS And Spyder GS-T - Buy The Eclipse Here
For some, the most exciting of all Eclipses are those of the solar kind. For fun-in-the-sun adventures, the Eclipse Spyder GS and GS-T offer a very desirable combination of performance and equipment. Designed specifically from the ground up as a convertible and built on the assembly line in Illinois alongside their coupe siblings, both Spyders have a power operated cloth top and glass rear window with electric defroster, rare features even on the most expensive drop-tops. In addition, all Eclipse Spyders have 2+2 seating and a conveniently shaped trunk. Eclipse Spyder GS has a 2.4-liter, SOHC 16-valve engine that produces 141-horsepower and can be mated to either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. With sport cloth or available leather sport seat trim, standard air conditioning, AM/FM stereo with compact disc player and alloy wheels with locks, the Spyder GS is extremely well equipped, especially considering its price. And, by adding a couple of option packages, buyers can have everything from a security system with keyless entry, cruise control and Mitsubishi HomeLink™ Universal Transmitter to a rear spoiler, bodyside cladding, fog lamps, and 16-inch five-spoke alloy wheels. The fiercest of the Spyders is perhaps the GS-T. Powered by the same 2.0-liter turbocharged engine of the GS-T and GSX coupes, Eclipse Spyder GS-T turns its chrome-plated 16-inch alloys into a blur and leaves its prey well behind its rear spoiler. Inside, the GS-T has leather-trimned seats, steering wheel and shift knob, a Mitsubishi/Infinity® premium AM/FM stereo with eight speakers with separate amplifier and both cassette and compact disc players, and a security system with remote entry. The popularity of the Mitsubishi Eclipse is found in its extraordinary style, several layers of available performance and class-leading value. And, for 1998, Eclipse's virtues are sure to continue.
1998 Eclipse Spyder - Buy The Eclipse Here
Mitsubishi Motors' Eclipse Spyder -- the first production convertible to be built on a U.S. assembly line by a Japanese manufacturer -- was specifically designed as a production convertible, unlike many sport coupes that have simply undergone minor alterations to become convertibles. Both the Eclipse Spyder GS and turbocharged Spyder GS-T feature platform and body reinforcements to enhance chassis-rigidity and control noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). The Eclipse Spyder is assembled in Normal, Illinois, with its Eclipse cousins, receiving special treatment all along the assembly line. The already rigid Eclipse coupe platform gains approximately 121 pounds in structural enhancements: the header panel is strengthened and fitted with top-latch receivers, the A-pillars are reinforced and stronger front/rear floor sections and quarter panels are used to add to the platform's integrity. In addition, a crossbrace has been added behind the rear seat to provide support for the rear deck assembly while a rear seatback is installed to accommodate the lowered convertible top. To reduce NVH transferred from the engine to the rest of the vehicle, both Eclipse Spyder models replace two of the four engine mounts with vibration-absorbing liquid-filled engine mounts. The two remaining engine mounts are of a traditional rubber and steel design.
Transmissions - Buy The Eclipse Here
5-speed manual gearbox is standard for both Eclipse Spyder and Spyder with an optional 4-speed automatic with overdrive that features adaptive transmission control and an electronic engine/transmission interactive control system. The adaptive control ensures that the transmission maintains the appropriate gear when climbing hills, virtually eliminating the sporadic "hunting" between gears that is common to many automatics. Additionally, the system resists shifting during cornering, and will downshift autornatically for engine braking when the vehicle is traveling down hills. This automatic also "talks" to the engine through the electronic control engine management computer, allowing the engine to pause for a split second during shifts. The result is reduced shift shock during normal driving and allows more consistent and coordinated performance during hard acceleration.
Suspension - Buy The Eclipse Here
The 4-wheel multi-link independent suspension from the Eclipse coupe carries over to Eclipse Spyder with minor modifications. The arrangement of the multi-link suspension provides secure, controlled road holding by optimizing each tire's contact patch on the road throughout the range of suspension travel in a variety of cornering situations. The front suspension's multi-link layout consists of an upper A-arm, two lower transverse links and an upright link, connecting the upper and lower suspension control arms, on which the wheel hub is mounted. The rear multi-link suspension incorporates an upper A-arm, a lower trailing link and two lower split-level lateral links. An upright link connects the upper and lower control arms, and serves as the wheel hub carrier on which the wheel is mounted. Eclipse Spyder GS utilizes a front stabilizer bar for added control, while Eclipse Spyder GS-T is equipped with standard front and rear stabilizer bars as well as sport-tuned shock absorbers to provide controlled, flat cornering. The spring rates of both Eclipse Spyder models have been revised to enhance handling characteristics of the new convertibles and to optimize control of the increased weight, added by the chassis-strengthening structural components and convertible top assemblies. For improved heat dissipation and enhanced braking performance during severe conditions such as mountainous driving, Eclipse Spyder models are equipped with power-assisted fully ventilated front disc brakes. Eclipse Spyder GS-T is fitted with solid rear discs as well. A four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System {ABS) is optional on both Eclipse Spyder models.
Convertible To and Tonneau Cover - Buy The Eclipse Here
Operation of Eclipse Spyder's electro-mechanical top is quick and easy - release the two header-mounted latches and press the top control switch, mounted on the instrument panel. It is not necessary to set the vehicle's parking brake to raise or lower the top as the top mechanism is controlled by a vehicle speed sensor and will not operate while the vehicle is in motion. According to the convenience and exterior aesthetics of Eclipse Spyder, a standard soft vinyl tonneau is provided to cover the top when it is lowered. llsing no snaps or other difficult-to-use fasteners, the formed vinyl tonneaa cover is easy to put in place. By inserting the rear lip of the cover under the rear bulkhead, then placing the cover's front anchor channel behind the body and rear seat mounting points, the tonneau is simply and securely installed.
Copyright © 1985-2004 AutoPricing / VIS. All rights reserved. *Values are subjective opinions based on the Staff of NABA / VIS and recent market conditions. National Automobile Bankers Associates / Vehicle Information Services is not responsible for actual or claimed deviation. Copyright 1993-2004 NABA/VIS. Auto Pricing a service of VIS. 7278219779
