Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX Turbo (D32A)
The Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX was the most formidable version of Mitsubishi's popular sports coupe, combining the turbocharged 4G63T engine with all-wheel drive in an affordable, attractive package. The 4G63T was the same engine family that powered the legendary Lancer Evolution, and in the Eclipse it produced 210 horsepower — enough to make the GSX genuinely quick in a straight line and devastating on twisty roads thanks to its AWD traction. The Eclipse was a product of the Diamond Star Motors joint venture between Mitsubishi and Chrysler, built at a purpose-built factory in Normal, Illinois. The GSX was the range-topping model, sitting above the GS-T (turbo, FWD) and RS/GS (naturally aspirated). The car became an icon of the late-1990s tuner culture, and the 4G63T engine's incredible tuning potential meant that modified Eclipse GSXs could produce enormous power on relatively modest budgets. Paul Walker's character drove a 2G Eclipse in the opening scenes of the original Fast and Furious film, cementing the car's place in popular culture. While it never achieved the cult status of the Evo, the Eclipse GSX offered much of the same engineering in a more affordable and practical coupe package.
The 4G63T engine is incredibly tunable but check for abuse — many have been heavily modified. Unmodified GSX examples are increasingly rare and valuable. Check for turbo wear, crankwalk (a known 7-bolt crank issue), and transfer case function. AWD system should engage smoothly. Rust is less of an issue than on Japanese-built cars. Avoid automatic transmission versions if seeking performance.
Built at Diamond Star Motors in Normal, Illinois — a Mitsubishi-Chrysler joint venture. The Eclipse shared its platform with the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser. The GSX was the top-tier turbo AWD variant.