The 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse is the second generation of a sporty compact car known for its stylish design and performance potential. Available as a coupe and a convertible, it spanned model years from 1995 to 1999. Key trims included the base RS, GS, and the performance-oriented GSX, often featuring all-wheel drive. Its popularity stemmed from its aggressive styling, available turbocharged engines, and its reputation as a tuner-friendly car, offering a thrilling driving experience for its price point.
The Good
The 1998 Eclipse boasts an exhilarating performance, especially with the turbocharged engines, appealing to driving enthusiasts. Its striking, modern design remains attractive. For practical buyers, it offers decent fuel efficiency in its non-turbo variants and a strong value proposition for a sporty coupe, making it an accessible dream car.
The Bad
Potential buyers should watch out for transmission issues, particularly on automatic models. Engine problems, especially related to the turbocharger and oil leaks, are also common. Rust can be a concern, particularly around the wheel wells and rocker panels. Electrical gremlins and premature wear of suspension components are also points to consider.
1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
The 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse offered two primary engine choices.
- A 2.4-liter SOHC inline-4 engine, typically found in the RS and GS trims.
- A 2.0-liter DOHC turbocharged inline-4 engine, exclusive to the GSX trim (and optional on some GS models in prior years, but standard on AWD GSX in '98). - Horsepower:
- The 2.4-liter SOHC engine produced approximately 141 horsepower.
- The 2.0-liter DOHC turbocharged engine delivered around 210 horsepower. - Fuel Economy:
Fuel economy varied based on the engine and transmission.
- For the 2.4L engine, expect around 20-23 MPG in the city and 26-30 MPG on the highway.
- For the turbocharged 2.0L engine, fuel economy was lower, typically in the range of 17-19 MPG in the city and 22-25 MPG on the highway, especially when driven spiritedly. - 0-60 Times:
Performance varied significantly with engine choice.
- The naturally aspirated 2.4L models typically accelerated from 0-60 mph in the 8-10 second range.
- The turbocharged GSX models, with their all-wheel-drive system and potent engine, could achieve 0-60 mph in approximately 6-7 seconds. - Towing Capacity:
The 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse was not designed for towing, and thus, it does not have a specified towing capacity. - Trim-Level Features:
- RS: Base model, often with manual windows, manual locks, steel wheels, and a more spartan interior. Focused on lightweight performance for enthusiasts.
- GS: Mid-level trim, typically including power windows, power locks, air conditioning, upgraded interior materials, alloy wheels, and a more refined experience. Available with both naturally aspirated and sometimes the turbo engine (though '98 AWD was primarily GSX).
- GSX: Top-tier performance trim. Featured the 2.0L turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive (AWD) with a viscous coupling center differential and an open rear differential, performance-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and often came with premium audio and other amenities found in the GS trim.
1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1998 |
| Make | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Eclipse |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Coupe |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.4 L 4-Cyl. |
| Engine Size | 2.4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse Have?
The 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse, while offering exciting performance, is known to have several common issues that owners frequently report. One of the most prevalent concerns revolves around the transmission, particularly the automatic transmissions, which can be prone to overheating and premature failure. This is often exacerbated by a lack of regular fluid changes. The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, while powerful, also has its share of problems. Oil leaks are common, especially from the valve cover gasket and oil pan. Premature wear of turbocharger components can lead to a loss of boost or complete turbo failure. Overheating due to radiator issues or a failing water pump is another concern, especially in the turbocharged models which generate more heat.
On the electrical front, owners sometimes experience issues with the power window regulators, power door locks, and various sensors, leading to intermittent or complete loss of function. The climate control system can also be a source of frustration, with blend door actuators failing. Rust is a significant long-term reliability concern for many cars of this era, and the Eclipse is no exception. Areas like the rear wheel arches, rocker panels, and the undercarriage are susceptible to significant corrosion, especially in regions with harsh winters and road salt. Suspension components, such as ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings, can also wear out prematurely, leading to clunks and poor handling.
While there weren't widespread major recalls for the 1998 model year that significantly impacted its overall reliability, specific issues like faulty airbag inflators have been part of broader recall campaigns by various manufacturers, including Mitsubishi, over the years. It is always advisable for potential buyers to check for any outstanding recalls for the specific vehicle. Long-term reliability can be significantly impacted by how well the vehicle has been maintained. Cars that have had regular oil changes, especially those with the turbocharged engine, and timely replacement of wear items tend to fare much better. However, the complexity of the turbocharged AWD system also means more potential points of failure compared to simpler, naturally aspirated front-wheel-drive versions.
On the electrical front, owners sometimes experience issues with the power window regulators, power door locks, and various sensors, leading to intermittent or complete loss of function. The climate control system can also be a source of frustration, with blend door actuators failing. Rust is a significant long-term reliability concern for many cars of this era, and the Eclipse is no exception. Areas like the rear wheel arches, rocker panels, and the undercarriage are susceptible to significant corrosion, especially in regions with harsh winters and road salt. Suspension components, such as ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings, can also wear out prematurely, leading to clunks and poor handling.
While there weren't widespread major recalls for the 1998 model year that significantly impacted its overall reliability, specific issues like faulty airbag inflators have been part of broader recall campaigns by various manufacturers, including Mitsubishi, over the years. It is always advisable for potential buyers to check for any outstanding recalls for the specific vehicle. Long-term reliability can be significantly impacted by how well the vehicle has been maintained. Cars that have had regular oil changes, especially those with the turbocharged engine, and timely replacement of wear items tend to fare much better. However, the complexity of the turbocharged AWD system also means more potential points of failure compared to simpler, naturally aspirated front-wheel-drive versions.
How long will the 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse last?
Estimating average mileage for a 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse is challenging due to its age and the spectrum of ownership and maintenance. However, well-maintained examples can realistically achieve 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more. Cars that have received regular oil changes, especially the turbocharged models, and proactive maintenance on wear items can last for many years.
Long-term durability is a mixed bag. The chassis itself can be quite robust if kept free from rust. However, the powertrain, particularly the automatic transmissions and the turbocharged engines, can be weak points if not meticulously cared for. Early transmission failures are not uncommon if fluid changes are neglected. Turbocharged models require more diligent maintenance to ensure longevity. Weaknesses that tend to surface over time include suspension wear, potential for oil leaks, and the aforementioned transmission issues. Electrically, minor gremlins can also develop. Ultimately, a 1998 Eclipse's lifespan heavily depends on its service history and the owner's commitment to addressing potential problems before they become catastrophic.
Long-term durability is a mixed bag. The chassis itself can be quite robust if kept free from rust. However, the powertrain, particularly the automatic transmissions and the turbocharged engines, can be weak points if not meticulously cared for. Early transmission failures are not uncommon if fluid changes are neglected. Turbocharged models require more diligent maintenance to ensure longevity. Weaknesses that tend to surface over time include suspension wear, potential for oil leaks, and the aforementioned transmission issues. Electrically, minor gremlins can also develop. Ultimately, a 1998 Eclipse's lifespan heavily depends on its service history and the owner's commitment to addressing potential problems before they become catastrophic.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse offered a modest array of technology and safety features for its time, prioritizing a sporty driving experience over cutting-edge infotainment. Standard entertainment typically consisted of an AM/FM radio with a cassette player. Higher trims, like the GS and GSX, often included an upgraded stereo system with more speakers and potentially a CD player as an option. While modern car buyers expect navigation and Bluetooth, these were non-existent in the 1998 Eclipse.
Driver-assistance features were virtually nonexistent by today's standards. The most advanced driver aid was likely the anti-lock braking system (ABS), which was available on certain trims, particularly the GS and standard on the GSX. Power steering was standard across the lineup.
Safety features were also basic but adequate for the era. Dual front airbags were standard on all models. Seatbelt pretensioners were also included. Side-impact airbags were not an option for this model year.
Crash-test ratings for the 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicated reasonable protection for its time. For the frontal barrier crash test, it generally received 4 out of 5 stars for the driver and front passenger. Side-impact crash test ratings were not as consistently strong, often scoring 3 or 4 stars. It's important to note that these ratings are from an era with less stringent testing protocols than today.
Optional features varied by trim but could include a power sunroof, cruise control (standard on GS and GSX), and air conditioning (standard on GS and GSX, optional on RS). The focus was more on the driving dynamics, with options like alloy wheels and a sport-tuned suspension available on higher trims to enhance performance rather than comfort or technological integration.
Driver-assistance features were virtually nonexistent by today's standards. The most advanced driver aid was likely the anti-lock braking system (ABS), which was available on certain trims, particularly the GS and standard on the GSX. Power steering was standard across the lineup.
Safety features were also basic but adequate for the era. Dual front airbags were standard on all models. Seatbelt pretensioners were also included. Side-impact airbags were not an option for this model year.
Crash-test ratings for the 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicated reasonable protection for its time. For the frontal barrier crash test, it generally received 4 out of 5 stars for the driver and front passenger. Side-impact crash test ratings were not as consistently strong, often scoring 3 or 4 stars. It's important to note that these ratings are from an era with less stringent testing protocols than today.
Optional features varied by trim but could include a power sunroof, cruise control (standard on GS and GSX), and air conditioning (standard on GS and GSX, optional on RS). The focus was more on the driving dynamics, with options like alloy wheels and a sport-tuned suspension available on higher trims to enhance performance rather than comfort or technological integration.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse had a starting MSRP that ranged from approximately $17,000 for the base RS model to over $23,000 for the GSX trim. Today, the used market prices for a 1998 Eclipse vary significantly. You can find models in rough condition for as little as $1,000 to $2,000, while exceptionally clean, low-mileage, or highly desirable trims like a well-maintained GSX could command anywhere from $4,000 to $8,000 or even more.
The Eclipse has experienced substantial depreciation since its launch. Its resale value is heavily influenced by condition, mileage, maintenance history, and trim level. The turbocharged GSX models, due to their performance, tend to hold their value better than the naturally aspirated versions. Rust is a major detractor, significantly reducing value. Modified examples can be hit or miss; some highly professional builds might fetch a premium, while poorly executed modifications can drastically lower resale value. A clean title and evidence of regular maintenance are crucial for maximizing resale potential.
The Eclipse has experienced substantial depreciation since its launch. Its resale value is heavily influenced by condition, mileage, maintenance history, and trim level. The turbocharged GSX models, due to their performance, tend to hold their value better than the naturally aspirated versions. Rust is a major detractor, significantly reducing value. Modified examples can be hit or miss; some highly professional builds might fetch a premium, while poorly executed modifications can drastically lower resale value. A clean title and evidence of regular maintenance are crucial for maximizing resale potential.
1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse can be a mixed bag in terms of cost. Insurance premiums can be moderate, especially for the turbocharged GSX, as it's often considered a sporty vehicle. Fuel costs are reasonable for the naturally aspirated models, but the turbocharged engine demands premium fuel and has lower MPG, increasing fuel expenses. Maintenance costs can be average for basic services, but repairs, especially for the turbocharged engine or AWD system, can become costly due to specialized parts and labor. Finding parts for older models can sometimes be a challenge. Overall, while not prohibitively expensive to maintain in its base form, the performance-oriented variants, particularly if issues arise, can lead to higher long-term ownership costs compared to more basic economy cars.
1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse Safety Rating
NHTSA
1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse Insurance
Insurance for a 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Coupe with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse Compare to Other Coupe?
The 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse competed in a vibrant segment of sporty coupes and sedans. Its primary rivals included the Dodge Neon (SRT-4 later, but earlier versions competed in spirit), Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Nissan 240SX, and Toyota Celica.
In terms of performance, the Eclipse GSX, with its turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, offered a compelling package, often outperforming many of its rear-wheel-drive or front-wheel-drive competitors in acceleration and handling, especially in adverse conditions. The naturally aspirated Eclipses were competent but less exhilarating.
Regarding features, the Eclipse offered a decent interior for its class, with higher trims providing amenities like power accessories and upgraded audio. However, it lagged behind some rivals in advanced technology or luxury appointments. Rivals like the Mustang and Camaro offered more powerful V8 options, appealing to a different performance niche.
Reliability was a mixed bag for the Eclipse. While the chassis was generally solid, its turbocharged engines and automatic transmissions were known to be more finicky than the simpler powertrains in some competitors. Rivals like the Toyota Celica often held a stronger reputation for long-term, trouble-free reliability, though they typically lacked the raw performance of the Eclipse GSX.
In terms of price, the Eclipse offered competitive pricing for its performance level, especially when compared to import sports cars. The GSX was priced to compete with higher-end trims of its rivals.
Alternatives:
- For pure RWD performance and a V8 soundtrack, the Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro are excellent alternatives, though often less practical in poor weather.
- For robust, straightforward reliability and a more conservative sporty coupe, the Toyota Celica is a strong contender, though typically less powerful than the GSX.
- The Nissan 240SX (S13/S14) is a favorite among drifters and tuners, offering a great RWD platform but often requiring significant modifications to match the Eclipse GSX's stock performance.
- For a more budget-friendly front-wheel-drive sporty car, the Dodge Neon (especially later performance variants) or Honda Civic Si could be considered, though they generally offered less power and refinement than the Eclipse.
In terms of performance, the Eclipse GSX, with its turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, offered a compelling package, often outperforming many of its rear-wheel-drive or front-wheel-drive competitors in acceleration and handling, especially in adverse conditions. The naturally aspirated Eclipses were competent but less exhilarating.
Regarding features, the Eclipse offered a decent interior for its class, with higher trims providing amenities like power accessories and upgraded audio. However, it lagged behind some rivals in advanced technology or luxury appointments. Rivals like the Mustang and Camaro offered more powerful V8 options, appealing to a different performance niche.
Reliability was a mixed bag for the Eclipse. While the chassis was generally solid, its turbocharged engines and automatic transmissions were known to be more finicky than the simpler powertrains in some competitors. Rivals like the Toyota Celica often held a stronger reputation for long-term, trouble-free reliability, though they typically lacked the raw performance of the Eclipse GSX.
In terms of price, the Eclipse offered competitive pricing for its performance level, especially when compared to import sports cars. The GSX was priced to compete with higher-end trims of its rivals.
Alternatives:
- For pure RWD performance and a V8 soundtrack, the Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro are excellent alternatives, though often less practical in poor weather.
- For robust, straightforward reliability and a more conservative sporty coupe, the Toyota Celica is a strong contender, though typically less powerful than the GSX.
- The Nissan 240SX (S13/S14) is a favorite among drifters and tuners, offering a great RWD platform but often requiring significant modifications to match the Eclipse GSX's stock performance.
- For a more budget-friendly front-wheel-drive sporty car, the Dodge Neon (especially later performance variants) or Honda Civic Si could be considered, though they generally offered less power and refinement than the Eclipse.
Final Verdict: Is the 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse a Good Coupe?
The 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse is ideal for driving enthusiasts who appreciate its aggressive styling and sporty performance, particularly in the GSX trim with its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive. It's a car that can offer significant thrills and a strong aftermarket tuning potential.
Whether it's worth buying depends heavily on the specific vehicle. A well-maintained, low-mileage GSX can be a fantastic enthusiast car, offering a unique blend of performance and style for its price point in the used market. However, it is crucial to buy with caution. The naturally aspirated RS and GS models offer a more economical entry into Eclipse ownership but lack the excitement of the turbo.
It is generally not recommended to buy a neglected or heavily modified example unless you are prepared for significant restoration work. Prioritize vehicles with a solid maintenance history, minimal rust, and ideally, manual transmissions. For the right price and condition, especially a GSX, the 1998 Eclipse can be a rewarding purchase for someone seeking a spirited, classic 90s sports coupe.
Whether it's worth buying depends heavily on the specific vehicle. A well-maintained, low-mileage GSX can be a fantastic enthusiast car, offering a unique blend of performance and style for its price point in the used market. However, it is crucial to buy with caution. The naturally aspirated RS and GS models offer a more economical entry into Eclipse ownership but lack the excitement of the turbo.
It is generally not recommended to buy a neglected or heavily modified example unless you are prepared for significant restoration work. Prioritize vehicles with a solid maintenance history, minimal rust, and ideally, manual transmissions. For the right price and condition, especially a GSX, the 1998 Eclipse can be a rewarding purchase for someone seeking a spirited, classic 90s sports coupe.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.