The second generation Mitsubishi Eclipse, produced from 1995 to 1999, remains a favorite among car enthusiasts for its sleek design and sporty performance. Understanding the various trims available during this generation can help you choose the right model for your needs and preferences. Let's dive into the details of each trim, exploring what makes them unique and desirable.

A Quick Overview of the 2nd Gen Eclipse Trims

The second generation Mitsubishi Eclipse came in several trims, each offering a different combination of features, performance, and style. The primary trims included:

• RS (Rally Sport): The base model, offering essential features and a fuel-efficient engine.
• GS (Grand Sport): A step up from the RS, adding more comfort and convenience features.
• GS-T (Grand Sport Turbo): Featuring a turbocharged engine for enhanced performance.
• GSX (Grand Sport eXtreme): The top-of-the-line model with all-wheel drive and a turbocharged engine.

Each trim level catered to different buyers, from those seeking an economical daily driver to those craving a high-performance sports car. Let's explore each trim in detail.

Mitsubishi Eclipse RS: The Economical Choice

The Mitsubishi Eclipse RS served as the entry-level trim for the second generation. This model was designed for buyers seeking an affordable and reliable sports coupe. The RS trim focused on providing essential features while keeping the price point accessible. Powering the RS was a 2.0-liter inline-four engine, producing around 140 horsepower. While not the most powerful, this engine provided adequate performance for daily driving and offered excellent fuel economy.

Key Features of the RS Trim

• Engine: 2.0-liter inline-four
• Horsepower: Approximately 140 hp
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
• Transmission: Standard 5-speed manual, optional 4-speed automatic
• Suspension: Independent front and rear suspension
• Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes
• Wheels: 14-inch steel wheels with covers
• Interior: Cloth upholstery, basic audio system
• Exterior: Standard Eclipse body styling with minimal enhancements

Why Choose the RS Trim?

The RS trim was an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers who wanted the sporty look of the Eclipse without the high price tag. It was also a practical option for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and reliability. Although it lacked the performance of the higher trims, the RS provided a fun and engaging driving experience for everyday use. Its simplicity and affordability made it a popular choice for many consumers.

Mitsubishi Eclipse GS: Balancing Comfort and Style

The Mitsubishi Eclipse GS trim represented a step up from the base RS model, offering additional features and refinements for a more comfortable and stylish driving experience. The GS trim targeted buyers who wanted a balance of performance, comfort, and aesthetics. While it shared the same 2.0-liter engine as the RS, the GS included several upgrades to enhance its appeal.

Key Features of the GS Trim

• Engine: 2.0-liter inline-four
• Horsepower: Approximately 140 hp
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
• Transmission: Standard 5-speed manual, optional 4-speed automatic
• Suspension: Independent front and rear suspension
• Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes
• Wheels: 15-inch alloy wheels (often optional)
• Interior: Upgraded cloth upholstery, improved audio system, power windows, power locks
• Exterior: Enhanced styling with available sunroof and rear spoiler options

Additional Comfort and Convenience

Compared to the RS, the GS trim offered a more refined interior with better materials and additional features. Power windows and locks added convenience, while the upgraded audio system provided a better listening experience. The availability of options like a sunroof and rear spoiler allowed buyers to customize their Eclipse GS to their liking. These enhancements made the GS trim a more attractive option for those seeking a comfortable and stylish daily driver.

Why Choose the GS Trim?

The GS trim was ideal for buyers who wanted more than just the basics. It offered a better balance of features and comfort compared to the RS, without the added cost of the turbocharged models. The GS provided a pleasant driving experience with its improved interior and available options. It was a popular choice for those who wanted a sporty coupe with everyday practicality.

Mitsubishi Eclipse GS-T: Turbocharged Performance

The Mitsubishi Eclipse GS-T trim was where things started to get serious in terms of performance. The GS-T was equipped with a turbocharged engine, delivering a significant boost in power and acceleration. This trim was designed for driving enthusiasts who wanted a thrilling driving experience. The GS-T featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, producing around 210 horsepower.

Key Features of the GS-T Trim

• Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four
• Horsepower: Approximately 210 hp
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
• Transmission: Standard 5-speed manual, optional 4-speed automatic
• Suspension: Sport-tuned independent front and rear suspension
• Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes (larger than RS/GS)
• Wheels: 16-inch alloy wheels
• Interior: Sport seats, upgraded audio system, turbo boost gauge
• Exterior: Unique styling with a rear spoiler and aggressive appearance

Enhanced Performance and Handling

The turbocharged engine in the GS-T transformed the Eclipse into a true sports car. The increased horsepower and torque provided exhilarating acceleration and made the GS-T a formidable performer on the road. The sport-tuned suspension and larger brakes further enhanced the driving experience, offering improved handling and stopping power. These upgrades made the GS-T a favorite among driving enthusiasts.

Why Choose the GS-T Trim?

The GS-T trim was the perfect choice for those who craved performance. It offered a significant power upgrade over the RS and GS trims, making it a blast to drive. The GS-T provided a thrilling and engaging driving experience with its turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension. It was an excellent option for those who wanted a sporty coupe with serious performance capabilities.

Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX: The Ultimate All-Wheel-Drive Turbo

The Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX was the top-of-the-line trim for the second generation, offering the ultimate combination of performance and technology. The GSX featured all-wheel drive (AWD) and a turbocharged engine, providing exceptional traction and acceleration. This trim was designed for buyers who wanted the best of everything.

Key Features of the GSX Trim

• Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four
• Horsepower: Approximately 210 hp
• Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD)
• Transmission: Standard 5-speed manual, optional 4-speed automatic
• Suspension: Sport-tuned independent front and rear suspension
• Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes (ABS standard)
• Wheels: 16-inch alloy wheels
• Interior: Leather upholstery (optional), premium audio system, sunroof (optional)
• Exterior: Unique styling with a rear spoiler, side skirts, and aggressive appearance

Superior Traction and Handling

The all-wheel-drive system in the GSX provided superior traction and handling, especially in adverse weather conditions. This made the GSX a confident and capable performer in any situation. The combination of AWD and a turbocharged engine delivered incredible acceleration and cornering ability. The GSX was the ultimate expression of the second generation Eclipse.

Why Choose the GSX Trim?

The GSX trim was the top choice for buyers who wanted the best performance and features available. The all-wheel-drive system provided superior traction and handling, while the turbocharged engine delivered exhilarating power. The GSX was the ultimate sports coupe for those who demanded the best. Its combination of performance, technology, and style made it a highly desirable and sought-after model.

Comparing the Trims: Which Eclipse is Right for You?

Choosing the right Mitsubishi Eclipse trim depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

• RS: Best for budget-conscious buyers who want the sporty look of the Eclipse with good fuel economy.
• GS: Ideal for those who want a balance of comfort, style, and affordability.
• GS-T: Perfect for driving enthusiasts who crave turbocharged performance and thrilling acceleration.
• GSX: The ultimate choice for those who want the best of everything, including all-wheel drive, turbocharged power, and top-of-the-line features.

Consider Your Priorities

Think about what's most important to you in a car. Are you primarily concerned with fuel efficiency and affordability? The RS might be the best choice. Do you want a comfortable and stylish daily driver? The GS could be a good fit. Are you a performance enthusiast who wants a thrilling driving experience? The GS-T or GSX would be more suitable. Understanding your priorities will help you narrow down your options and choose the right Eclipse trim for your needs.

Conclusion: The Legacy of the 2nd Gen Mitsubishi Eclipse

The second generation Mitsubishi Eclipse remains an iconic sports coupe, offering a range of trims to suit different tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking for an economical daily driver or a high-performance sports car, there's an Eclipse trim that fits the bill. Understanding the differences between the RS, GS, GS-T, and GSX trims can help you make an informed decision and find the perfect Eclipse for your needs. The 2nd gen Eclipse continues to be a popular choice among car enthusiasts, thanks to its stylish design, sporty performance, and rich history. So, whether you're a seasoned car collector or a first-time buyer, the Mitsubishi Eclipse 2nd gen is definitely worth considering.