Hey guys! Let's dive into the world of the Mitsubishi Eclipse 2nd Generation, focusing on its various trim levels and what makes each one unique. If you're thinking about buying a classic Eclipse or just want to learn more about these iconic cars, you've come to the right place.

A Quick Overview of the 2nd Gen Eclipse

The second-generation Mitsubishi Eclipse, produced from 1995 to 1999, marked a significant leap in design and performance compared to its predecessor. Known for its sleek, rounded body lines and sporty appeal, the 2G Eclipse quickly became a favorite among car enthusiasts. Available in several trims, each offering a different blend of features and performance capabilities, there's a 2G Eclipse for almost everyone. Whether you're after a fuel-efficient daily driver or a turbocharged performance machine, understanding the differences between the trim levels is key.

The Base Model Eclipse

The base model Eclipse was designed with affordability and everyday usability in mind. It typically came equipped with a 2.0-liter 420a inline-four engine, providing a decent balance of fuel economy and adequate power for city and highway driving. This engine was naturally aspirated, meaning it didn't have a turbocharger. Standard features usually included cloth upholstery, basic audio systems, and manual windows and locks. While it may not have had all the bells and whistles of the higher trims, the base model offered a reliable and fun driving experience. For those looking for a simple and economical sports coupe, the base Eclipse was a solid choice. The exterior styling still maintained the sporty look of the Eclipse, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Over the years, many owners have upgraded these base models with aftermarket parts to enhance their performance and appearance, proving its potential as a tuner car.

The RS Trim

Stepping up from the base model, the RS trim offered a few more amenities and a slightly enhanced appearance. The Mitsubishi Eclipse RS also featured the 2.0-liter 420a engine, focusing on efficiency and reliability. However, the RS trim often included additional features such as upgraded interior trim, improved audio systems, and sometimes, optional features like alloy wheels. These enhancements made the RS a more appealing option for those who wanted a bit more comfort and style without breaking the bank. The RS trim served as a middle ground, providing a balance between the basic features of the base model and the higher-end features of the GS trim. It was a popular choice for drivers who wanted a sporty look with a few extra conveniences. The availability of optional features allowed buyers to customize their RS to better suit their preferences, adding to its appeal. Maintaining the affordability factor while adding value, the RS trim was a smart choice for many Eclipse enthusiasts.

The GS Trim

The GS trim marked a more significant upgrade in terms of features and available options. While it often came with the same 2.0-liter 420a engine as the base and RS models, the GS offered a wider range of optional equipment and aesthetic enhancements. Common upgrades included: power windows and locks, upgraded audio systems, cruise control, and more stylish wheel options. The interior often featured better quality materials and more comfortable seating. The GS trim was designed to provide a more premium experience compared to the lower trims, appealing to buyers who wanted a comfortable and well-equipped sports coupe. The availability of these additional features made the GS a more attractive option for those willing to spend a bit more for added convenience and luxury. The Mitsubishi Eclipse GS also benefited from a more refined exterior appearance, with some models featuring additional body accents and sporty design elements. This trim level provided a great balance of features, performance, and affordability, making it a popular choice among Eclipse buyers. The GS trim also held its value well, thanks to its enhanced features and overall appeal.

The Spyder Trim

The Spyder trim brought open-top driving to the Eclipse lineup, offering a convertible version of the popular sports coupe. Available with either the 2.4-liter 4G64 engine or the turbocharged 4G63T engine (in the GS-T Spyder trim), the Spyder offered a unique blend of style and performance. The convertible top was power-operated, adding to the convenience and appeal of this trim. The Spyder trim typically included many of the same features as the GS and GS-T trims, with the added benefit of open-air driving. This made it a popular choice for those who wanted a sporty and fun convertible without sacrificing comfort and convenience. The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder stood out with its sleek design and the added thrill of top-down driving. The interior was well-appointed, with comfortable seating and user-friendly controls. The Spyder trim combined the sporty appeal of the Eclipse with the freedom of a convertible, creating a truly enjoyable driving experience. Maintaining the overall aesthetic of the Eclipse, the Spyder added a touch of flair and excitement to the lineup.

The GS-T Trim

The GS-T trim was where the Eclipse started to show its true performance potential. Equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4G63T engine, the GS-T delivered significantly more power and torque than the naturally aspirated models. This engine was a favorite among tuners, thanks to its robust design and potential for aftermarket upgrades. The GS-T trim also featured upgraded suspension components, larger brakes, and a more aggressive exterior appearance. These enhancements made the GS-T a serious contender in the sport compact market. The interior often included sport seats and additional gauges to monitor the engine's performance. The GS-T trim was designed for drivers who wanted a high-performance sports coupe with заводской power and handling capabilities. The turbocharged engine provided exhilarating acceleration, and the upgraded suspension ensured confident handling. The Mitsubishi Eclipse GS-T was a popular choice for enthusiasts who wanted a car that was both fun to drive and capable of delivering impressive performance. The GS-T trim also served as a great platform for further modifications, allowing owners to customize their cars to their specific performance goals.

The GSX Trim

At the top of the Eclipse lineup sat the GSX trim, which combined the turbocharged 4G63T engine with all-wheel drive. This combination resulted in incredible traction and acceleration, making the GSX the ultimate performance version of the 2nd generation Eclipse. The all-wheel-drive system provided superior grip, especially in adverse weather conditions, making it a practical choice for those who lived in areas with snow or rain. The GSX trim also included all the features of the GS-T, along with additional enhancements such as upgraded interior trim and exclusive styling elements. The Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX was a true sports car, offering a level of performance and handling that was unmatched by the other trims. The all-wheel-drive system not only improved traction but also enhanced the car's overall stability and handling. The GSX trim was highly sought after by enthusiasts and remains a desirable classic today. The GSX's combination of turbocharged power and all-wheel drive made it a formidable competitor on both the street and the track. The GSX trim represented the pinnacle of the 2nd generation Eclipse, offering the best possible performance and driving experience.

Key Differences Summarized

To make things easier, here's a quick rundown of the key differences between the trims:

• Base Model: 2.0L 420a engine, basic features, affordable.
• RS: 2.0L 420a engine, slightly upgraded features compared to the base model.
• GS: 2.0L 420a engine, more optional features, and aesthetic enhancements.
• Spyder: Convertible version, available with 2.4L 4G64 or turbocharged 4G63T engine.
• GS-T: Turbocharged 2.0L 4G63T engine, upgraded suspension and brakes.
• GSX: Turbocharged 2.0L 4G63T engine, all-wheel drive, top-of-the-line performance.

Which Trim Is Right for You?

Choosing the right trim depends on your priorities and budget. If you're looking for an affordable and reliable daily driver, the base, RS, or GS trims are excellent choices. If you want the thrill of open-top driving, the Spyder is the way to go. And if you crave high performance and all-weather capability, the GS-T or GSX trims will deliver an exhilarating driving experience. Consider what features are most important to you and test drive a few different trims to see which one best suits your needs.

Conclusion

The second-generation Mitsubishi Eclipse offered a diverse range of trims to cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you're after a fuel-efficient commuter or a turbocharged performance machine, there's an Eclipse trim for you. Understanding the differences between the trims can help you make an informed decision when shopping for a used Eclipse. Happy hunting, and enjoy the ride!