2001MitsubishiEclipse SpyderMitsubishi Eclipse Spyder2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GTConvertibleConvertibleFWDNormal, ILMitsubishi's 2001 Eclipse Spyder is all-new inside and out and based on the recently redesigned Eclipse Coupe, embodying a youthful image and providing a sporty drive. But the turbocharged engine is no longer on the menu.Bigger engines, intriguing styling, newfound refinement.Moderate road noise, low-grade materials, no turbo motor, no ABS on GS.Since 1996, the Eclipse Spyder has delivered edgy, top-down styling and inspiring performance at bargain prices. With a triple-layer power top and designer bodywork, the Spyder was an instant hit - selling at the rate of 1,000 units a month. The second-generation Spyder receives enhanced four-cylinder engine performance, a refined V6, sophisticated technology and a new image. Mitsubishi calls the new Eclipse's styling "geo-mechanical," with a swell in the hood that rolls across the upper fenders, a lateral accent line and ribbed contours in its doors and front fascia. Inside, styling is one part futuristic and two parts sporty with a dash of luxury sprinkled in. With a twin-cockpit design, the interior is symmetrical and functional, with some components appearing to be melded into the dash while others protrude aggressively. Materials include soft-touch appointments with titanium-finish details that look rather cheap. The Spyder is offered in two trim levels -- GS and GT. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine found in the GS model now produces 147 horsepower. This six-horsepower gain over the 1999 model feels even more substantial because the power peak is 500 rpm lower in the rev range. The GT model comes equipped with a thoroughly responsive 3.0-liter V6 engine making 200 horsepower. The old Spyder's turbo engine has been dropped in favor of the more refined V6. Regardless of engine selection, a five-speed manual transmission is standard fare. For those desiring an automatic tranny, Mitsubishi offers a new four-speed Sportronic automanual transmission that allows drivers to change gears without using a clutch. The 2001 Spyder also rides on a revised suspension, with large-diameter front struts, a strut tower brace and a multi-link rear suspension incorporating stronger tubular steel arms. A stiffer sub-frame and a longer wheelbase also debut. Safety improvements include front-seat force-limiter seatbelts and front seat-mounted side airbags that are optional on the GT model. Traction control is offered only on the GT with an automatic transmission, which leaves us wondering why it isn't available with the manual. And why can't buyers of the GS models get antilock brakes? With all these improvements, the Spyder's value hasn't been lost. Standard equipment on every 2001 model includes power windows and door locks, an engine immobilizer and anti-theft system, microfiltered air conditioning, height-adjustable driver's seat, CD player, auto-off headlights, 16-inch wheels, cruise control, remote keyless entry, lumbar support, and dual accessory power outlets. Step up to the GT and receive the V6 engine, 17-inch wheels, improved brakes and wider tires. Hardcore Eclipse fans will be upset that Mitsubishi has dropped the turbo this year, focusing instead on attracting middle-market buyers. There's certainly no denying the huge leap that Mitsubishi has taken with the 2001 Eclipse Spyder. From styling to drivetrain, the car is totally different from anything that's previously worn a "Spyder" badge. Chevrolet CamaroFord MustangPontiac FirebirdVolkswagen Cabrio336,000560,000336,0007100,0009.0 sec.128.14 ft.0.8163 litersV6200 hp @ 5500 rpm205 ft-lbs. @ 4500 rpm175.4 in.68.9 in.52.8 in.3241 lbs.100.8 in.39.4 in.34.5 in.52.2 in.42.2 in.51.9 in.41.3 in.42.3 in.29.4 in.7.2 cu.ft.OptionalStandardNot AvailableOptionalNot AvailableOptionalNot AvailableRating = Not TestedRating = Not TestedNot TestedNot TestedNot TestedNot Tested16.4 gal.20 mpg / 27 mpg19 mpg / 26 mpg328 mi. / 443 mi.312 mi. / 426 mi.Insurance costs can vary greatly for this vehicle, depending on such factors as driver age, driver gender, teenage drivers in the household, driving records, theft loss data for your particular geographic region, miles driven per year, and other widely variable factors. Additionally, some companies charge a premium for certain makes and models, while others do not.$23,245$25,4077.35%$535N/A2% of the Base MSRPGS (5M): 2.4L I4 SOHC MPI 16-valve engine; 5-speed OD manual transmission; 90 amp alternator; front-wheel drive, 3.72 axle ratio; stainless steel exhaust; front independent strut suspension with anti-roll bar, front coil springs, rear independent multi-link suspension with anti-roll bar, rear coil springs; rack-and-pinion power steering with engine-speed-sensing assist; front disc/rear drum brakes; 16.4 gal. capacity fuel tank; rear wing spoiler, side impact bars; power convertible roof with lining, glass rear window; front and rear body-colored bumpers; clearcoat monotone paint; aero-composite halogen auto-off headlamps; additional exterior lights include front fog/driving lights; driver's and passenger's power remote black outside mirrors; 16" x 6" silver alloy wheels; P205/55HR16 A/S BSW tires; compact steel spare wheel; air conditioning, air filter; AM/FM stereo radio, seek-scan feature, single-disc CD player, 7 speakers, theft deterrent, fixed antenna; cruise control; power doorlocks with 2-stage unlock, remote keyless entry, remote trunk release; 2 power accessory outlets, front lighter element, driver's foot rest, retained accessory power, garage door opener, smokers' package; instrumentation display includes tachometer, water temperature gauge, in-dash clock, trip odometer; warning indicators include oil pressure, battery, lights on, low fuel, door ajar, trunk ajar, brake fluid; driver's and passenger's front airbags; ignition disable, security system; tinted windows, power front and rear windows with driver's 1-touch down function; variable-speed intermittent front windshield wipers, sun visor strip, rear window defroster; seating capacity of 4, front sports seats with adjustable headrests, center armrest with storage, driver's seat includes 6-way adjustment, lumbar support, passenger's seat includes 4-way adjustment; rear bench seat; height-adjustable front seatbelts; cloth seats, cloth door trim insert, front cloth headliner, full carpet floor coveringwith carpeted floor mats, leather-wrapped gearshift knob; interior lights include dome light with fade, front reading lights; leather-wrapped steering wheel with tilt adjustment; vanity mirrors; day/night rearview mirror; full floor console, glove box, front cupholder, instrument panel bin, driver's and passenger's door bins; carpeted cargo floor, cargo cover, cargo net, cargo light; black side window moldings, black front windshield molding, black rear window molding and body-colored door handles.
GT (5M) (in addition to or instead of GS (5M) equipment): 3.0L V6 SOHC MPI 24-valve engine; engine oil cooler; 85 amp alternator; 3.74 axle ratio; stainless steel exhaust with tailpipe finisher; 4-wheel disc brakes; rocker panel extensions; 17" x 6.5" silver alloy wheels; P215/50VR17 A/S BSW tires; power retractable antenna; instrumentation display includes oil pressure gauge and premium cloth seats.