1990–1994 (1G) Mitsubishi Eclipse, Eagle Talon, and Plymouth Laser (Custom Mitsubishi Eclipse)

Custom Mitsubishi Eclipse 1994

The first generation Mitsubishi Eclipse was sold as an entry to mid-level four-cylinder sports coupe. Four trim levels were available: the bottom three were front wheel drive and the very top was all wheel drive. The top FWD and the AWD model were equipped with turbocharged engines.

The car underwent minor changes throughout its production; 1992–1994 models have updated sheetmetal and are easily distinguishable from previous vehicles. The Eclipse was revised into a new vehicle for 1995 (described below in the 2G section).

Trim levels

The Eclipse was available in four trim levels during its first-generation production run. AWD models were not available until halfway through the first model year.

• Eclipse: Base FWD model equipped with a 92 hp naturally-aspirated engine 1.8 L 8-valve SOHC 4G37 engine
• Eclipse GS: Upgraded FWD model with slightly more equipment
• Eclipse GS DOHC: Upgraded FWD model equipped with a 136 hp (101 kW) naturally-aspirated 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC 4G63 non-turbo engine**
• Eclipse GS-T: Top FWD model equipped with a 180-195 hp* turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC 4G63T engine
• Eclipse GSX: AWD model equipped with a 180-195 hp* turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC 4G63T engine

* 1990 manual transmission turbocharged models were rated at 190 hp, whereas 1991 and later manual transmission turbo models were rated for 195 hp (145 kW). The automatic models were rated at 180 hp (130 kW) due to smaller fuel-injectors and turbocharger.

** 1990 1994 DSMs did not come with the 420A engine, which was not added until the second generation.

These models varied significantly in drive trains, available options, and—to an extent—appearance. The Eclipse GSX, for example, was sold with different plastic body cladding than the base Eclipse.

Drivetrain

The basic layout of the drive train Eclipse is a transverse-mounted 4-cylinder Mitsubishi 4G37 and 4G63 engine is on the left side of the car driving an automatic or manual transmission on the right side. AWD models have a different transmission, which also includes a limited-slip center differential and output shaft for a transfer case, the rear differential drives (also known as limited-slip), and half-waves.

The 4G37 and 4G63 engines are both I4 gasoline engines. The 4G63 consists of an iron-aluminium engine block and cylinder head, and is equipped with balance shafts for the smooth operation. The turbo version of the 4G63 (sometimes called 4G63T) is equipped with a lower compression ratio (7.8 compared to 9.0 in the naturally aspirated version) and the oil squirters under the pistons in order to better cope with the additional stress and Forced heat caused by induction.

There is also a difference between the rear axle / rear wheel drive ends on all models. 1990-early 1992 cars have 3 screws for attaching the axis of the wheel hub. Late 1992-1999 have larger diameter axles and attach to the hub with larger, 4 cups screw axis.
Custom Mitsubishi Eclipse