Mitsubishi Eclipse, first generation. A rare preview.

There are cars about which many people say: 'Oh yes, that's right'. And when you hear that, you know there is a good chance that the specific model has escaped the collective memory. This has not only to do with the specific model, but also with the fact that a period of thirty years is longer ago than it seems. Time moves fast. The shape of the car we are describing now moves fast too: the Mitsubishi Eclipse 2.0 16V GS, which is available at Dijkstra Classic Cars & Youngtimers.

The Eclipse. It was built in four generations by the Japanese manufacturer, and by that, of course, we do not mean the Eclipse Cross that can still be ordered new today. We are describing the coupe, which is named after a racehorse. More specifically: the Eclipse we are describing dates from the first generation, which was produced from 1990 into 1995. To get straight to the point: this is unmistakably a car that can be considered a child of its time. Yes, the car was developed in collaboration with Chrysler and sold as the Plymouth Laser, among others. You can see the hallmarks of the collaboration between America en Japan clearly back.

The car was already a rarity in the Netherlands at the time of production and hardly sold. That is why it is all the more wonderful that the enthusiast of a truly rare Japanese coupe can turn to Sexbierum for a magnificent example with a special story. The car we describe was in the hands of Mitsubishi dealer Van der Tol for many years, and in 2018 it acquired its first private owner. He maintained the car in tip-top condition, and every winter the owner took the Eclipse off the road.

Today, this results in a particularly well-preserved example that has driven just over 38.000 kilometers and is also equipped with features that were not always commonplace in 1995. The equipment is very complete, including air conditioning, central locking, and electric windows and mirrors. Four airbags and the dual-zone and power-assisted braking system (ventilated discs all around, ABS) tell the story of the integrated safety features of that era.

This is just a small selection from the complete package of the car painted in Radiant Fire. Speaking of the paintwork (and all other parts): it is in top condition. And the same applies to the interior and the mechanics. Speaking of which: under the hood resides the 2.0 16V engine, which enables the Mitsubishi to reach a top speed of 220 kilometers per hour. We do not rule out the possibility that, given the history of this particular example, that top speed was never actually reached. In terms of mechanics, we have already mentioned the braking system; the suspension consists of a MacPherson strut at the front with a stabilizer and a torsion body with a stabilizer at the rear, complete with coil springs.

The Mitsubishi stands out emphatically with its predominantly smooth lines, the large B-pillar, its low-set front end with pop-up headlights, and the small wedge shape visible within it. And this culminates in a prominent rear spoiler. The Eclipse is, more of a 2+2 than a four-seater, meaning the front occupants in particular will thoroughly enjoy the ride. And bystanders too, as they will see a beautifully designed and rare car.

The most important aspect of this neo-classic is not only its rarity, but also the totally original condition in which the Mitsubishi finds itself. It has always been used as an enthusiast's car and treated as such. Everything that makes the car attractive in terms of documentation is included, and other items are also complete. This makes this almost forgotten Eclipse a car that, as an enthusiast of Japanese exotics, you simply cannot afford to overlook. And anyone in the market for this stunning and beautifully preserved Mitsubishi would do well to let their heart speak and at least consider this opportunity. This fine Japanese machine invites you to take it for a drive. We, at any rate, plan to do so soon and thereby uncover the other secrets of this beautiful Mitsubishi.

Photos: Dijkstra Classic Cars & Youngtimers