Since the unveiling of the second generation of Mitsubishi Eclipse and the conception of the Eclipse Spyder in 1996, it has offered cutting edge styling in convertibles and supreme performance at lower prices. With its top design bodywork and a triple layer power top, it was selling at an amazing 1,000 units per month. With its new image, Mitsubishi is calling its new Eclipse's styling "geo-mechanical," with a bulge in the hood that rolls across the upper fenders, a lateral accent line and ribbed contours in its doors and front fascia.

 

The 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder is presented in two trim levels, the GS and GT. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine set up in the GS model generates147 horsepower. This six-horsepower power up over the 1999 model seems even more significant because the power peak is 500 rpm lower in the rev range. The GT model comes outfitted with a comprehensively responsive 3.0-liter V6 engine manufacturing 200 horsepower.

 

The old Spyder's turbo engine has been ditched in favor of this more superior V6. Despite of engine selection, a five-speed manual transmission is standard fare. For those yearning an automatic transmission, Mitsubishi tenders a new four-speed Sportronic automanual transmission that allows drivers to change gears without using a clutch.