EDMUNDS.COM 2004 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE SPYDER
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
A fun drop top, but those seeking real performance should look elsewhere.
Pros
Distinctive styling, V6 power in GT trim, easy-to-use convertible top, minimal wind buffeting with the top down.
Cons
Uninspired interior design, intolerable rear seats, side airbags and antilock brakes are available only on GTS model.
What''s New for 2004
Revised exterior paint and top colors and a seatbelt reminder are the only changes for this year.
Overview
Introduction:
When it debuted back in 1996, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder was a feisty little drop top with a nimble chassis that could be had with turbocharged power. Though the Eclipse coupe was revamped for 2000, the convertible version didn''t debut until the following year. Eschewing the previous generation''s scrappy personality for a more refined persona, the current Spyder stakes its claim on edgy styling and respectable performance at an affordable price. While the Eclipse is comfortable and fairly fleet (with V6 power), the enjoyment quotient isn''t as high as in the previous version. True driving enthusiasts may be disappointed in the car''s isolated and floaty feel when the car is pushed, preferring more feedback from the steering and less body roll from the suspension. The Eclipse Spyder is intended to appeal to those who seek reasonably priced convertible fun and sporty looks with a measure of comfort and four seats. Fortunately for Mitsubishi, this is a market that has a limited number of competitors. Choices are limited to the Ford Mustang, Toyota Camry Solara and Chrysler Sebring. That said, we would purchase, as well as recommend to others, a Ford Mustang convertible before the Eclipse Spyder. We would even suggest a Mazda Miata if you don''t absolutely need that rear seat or two more cubic feet of trunk capacity.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The Eclipse Spyder is offered in three trim levels: GS, GT and GTS. Standard equipment on the base GS includes a power-operated convertible top, 16-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat, adjustable lumbar support, a 210-watt Infinity stereo with a CD player, auto-off headlights, a rear spoiler, cruise control, keyless entry, an anti-theft system and power windows, mirrors and door locks. Next up is the GT, which adds a V6 engine, 17-inch wheels, four-wheel disc brakes, ground effects, a chrome exhaust tip and foglights. In addition to more power, the top dog GTS also packs leather seating, a power driver seat, an in-dash CD changer, ABS and side airbags. Leather upholstery is optional on the GS and GT.
Powertrains and Performance:
The four-cylinder engine found in the GS model displaces 2.4 liters and produces 147 horsepower (142 hp with the automatic). The GT model comes equipped with a responsive 3.0-liter V6 engine making 200 hp. The GTS is slightly more muscular than the GT, as it sports 210 horses. All models can be equipped with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission (with a sequential-shift Sportronic mode).
Safety:
Three major safety features, antilock brakes, side airbags and traction control are only available on the top trim level, the GTS. No crash test data is currently available for the Eclipse Spyder. However, in government crash testing, the coupe version of the Eclipse scored four (out of five) stars for driver and front-passenger protection in frontal impacts.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
Featuring a symmetrical cockpit design, the interior is lackluster in appearance and heavy on low-grade interior materials. At least the convertible top is simple to use; push the buttons in the two latches to release it, and then let the automatic mechanism take over. Once the top is in its well, you''ll need to take some time to attach the soft tonneau cover for a finished look. The top includes a glass rear window with a defroster, while the option of a beige or blue soft top, in addition to the usual black, adds extra color combinations.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
The Eclipse Spyder is generally pleasant to drive, thanks to a smooth power delivery and a compliant suspension. It may have a sporty image, but the Eclipse is better off cruising the highway than it is tearing up a twisty canyon road. Wind buffeting with the top down is kept well in check, so long drives with the top down aren''t a problem.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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