In 1996, Mitsubishi introduced the Eclipse Spyder. Although it was similar to the coupe version of the Eclipse, the Spyder was a fun, sexy convertible. The 1996 ragtop was originally equipped with a 2.4 liter inline 4 cylinder rated at 141 horsepower. It had a well insulated power operated top, heated glass rear window and a sporty style that immediately caught the eye.
Between the 1997 and 2000 model years the Spyder was appropriately upgraded with more advanced engineering, technological and design enhancements. Rear spoilers and distinctive fog lamps were a few of the features that were added over the years to enhance its visually athletic appeal.
There was no new model for the 2000 model year, but in 2001 it returned with a revised body style and new interior. Two models were available, the GS which was powered by a 2.4 liter inline 4 with horsepower increased to 147, or the GT which had a 3.0 liter V6 under the hood putting out 200 horsepower. The 2002 model year was basically indifferent from the previous year, with the exception of a few cosmetic additions and a few new exterior colors. Despite the impracticality of a convertible, the availability of affordable convertible sports cars of this quality was limited, and the Eclipse continued to sell well.
In 2003, a new version of the Spyder joined the lineup - the GTS. The GTS had the same distinctive styling and new exterior light clusters in both the front and the rear as well as a new front fascia, convenient power operated convertible top and a 3.0 liter V6 boasting 210 horsepower. 2004 and 2005 were rather uneventful years in terms of changes, and there was no Eclipse Spyder manufactured for the 2006 model year. However, for the 2007 model year the Spyder rides again.
The 2007 GT, GS and GTS are all equipped with 17 inch, five spoke alloy wheels, rear spoiler and an outstanding CD/MP3 compatible sound system featuring nine speakers and steering wheel mounted controls. A front strut brace enhances the handling while safety features such as front and side airbags, anti lock brakes and an anti theft system increase security. Almost all interior and exterior materials were upgraded to a higher quality and exhumed a level of luxury to add to the fun of driving this sensationally attractive convertible. With the strongest powertrain this ragtop has ever seen, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder is an affordable and fun car to drive that inspires feelings of wanting to take the day off from work and go driving on a hot summer day with the top down and the wind rushing through your hair.
