A front-drive car, the Eclipse features a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine in the GS model that creates 162 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and twists up torque at 162 lb.-ft. at 4,000 rpm. GT models feature a 3.8-liter V6 that pushes out 262 horses (5,750 rpm) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm. Transmissions are manual for both models; the GS gets a five-speed, the GT moves one up to six speeds. There is a Sportronic automatic transmission available for geeks, girls and weak-footed fellas. Fuel economy is estimated to be 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway; with the five-speed tranny you can get an EPA-estimated 19/28 mpg. Every model features ventilated brake discs up front and ABS on all four wheels. Rear brakes do vary – the GS offers solid discs, and the GT provides discs that are larger and ventilated. Mitsubishi engineers have tried to improve the sportiness of this car by applying some performance tuning to a suspension that has MacPherson struts up front with a stabilizer bar, and a multi-link setup in back.
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