2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder Review
2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder Review
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Used Eclipse Spyder for sale
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Bigger engines, intriguing styling, newfound refinement.
Cons
- Moderate road noise, low-grade materials, no turbo motor, no ABS on GS.
What’s new
Mitsubishi'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.
Edmunds says
Though more grown up and better equipped than the previous generation car, the current Eclipse lacks the spunky personality of its predecessor.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GS 2dr Convertible (2.4L 4cyl 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.28 per gallon for regular unleaded in Iowa.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Iowa
$177/mo for Eclipse Spyder GS
Eclipse Spyder GS
vs
$165/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
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.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder.
5 star(68%)
4 star(11%)
3 star(17%)
2 star(4%)
1 star(0%)
54 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
One powerfull Spyder
#1Spyder, 09/27/2009
2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
This is my first Mitsubishi - a 2001 eclipse spyder convertible and I couldn't ask for a nicer ride, with lots of power. I have done a few upgrades and wow!, this v6 kicks but, but you gotta do a couple of things to wake the motor up. My ride has about 300 foot pounds of torque. This car is like a dream to drive anywhere. With a sound system upgrade how could you not look an think wow a … performance sounding, stereo pounding, sleek styling car.
4.75 out of 5 stars
I love my little car
mjstone323, 10/19/2010
2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
I bought this car because I wanted something that wasn't falling apart - I had driven beaters my entire life and I just wanted something nice. Bonus for the convertible top! And it's got a pretty comfortable back seat - hard to find that in a convertible. I have only had to make minor repairs in the 5 years I've had it. It's just a wonderful car, so much fun to drive, and I get a lot of … compliments. I would recommend it to anyone.
4.88 out of 5 stars
01Spyder
INMichael, 03/27/2002
2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
My only complaints are, the center counsole doesn't lock, so you can't keep anything vauleable in it if you park it with the top down, and with the top up it creates really bad blind spots.
4.75 out of 5 stars
Fun Ride
chicubsgal31, 10/24/2006
2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
I have had this car for almost a year now and have had no problems whatsoever. It is very fun in the summer, but able to keep warm in the winter as well. Leather seats a must with the convertible. I drive back and forth from home to school, a 200 mile drive, every weekend and it handles great on the interstates.
2001 Eclipse Spyder Highlights
GS
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $23,407 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 23 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $177/month |
Seating | 4 seats |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5PassengerNot Rated
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRolloverNot RatedDynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
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